One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta
A rich and creamy tomato pasta that cooks entirely in one pan for maximum flavor absorption and minimal cleanup. This 30-minute weeknight dinner features tender pasta simmered in a luscious tomato cream sauce with fresh spinach and melted cheese.
Equipment
- Large skillet or wide-bottomed pan
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta penne, fusilli, or similar short pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved (optional)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2-3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach packed
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic and cherry tomatoes (if using), cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add pasta and liquid: Add dry pasta, marinara sauce, 2 cups of broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir to combine, ensuring pasta is mostly covered with liquid.
- Simmer pasta: Bring mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring every 3-4 minutes to prevent sticking. Add more broth if needed to prevent burning.
- Add cream and cheese: Remove lid and reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, fresh spinach, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Stir until spinach wilts and cheese melts completely.
- Final touches: Remove from heat and stir in remaining cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Let sit for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Pasta choice: Short pasta shapes work best. Avoid very small pasta like orzo or very large shapes that won't cook evenly.
- Liquid adjustment: Different pasta brands absorb liquid differently. Start with 2 cups broth and add more if needed.
- Dairy-free option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or vegan cream cheese, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
- Storage: Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth if needed.
- Make it heartier: Add cooked ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage with the aromatics.
- Vegetable additions: Mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers can be sautéed with the onions.
Nutrition
Nutrition Facts
One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta
Amount per Serving
Calories
445
% Daily Value*
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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