If you are looking for a comforting, vibrant, and seriously delicious dinner that comes together in one pot, your search ends here with this One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta. Imagine tender penne bathed in a luxuriously creamy tomato sauce, enlivened by the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, brightened with fresh spinach and basil, and kissed with just the right touch of heat. It is a beautiful harmony of flavors and textures that feels both indulgent and wholesome, all made with minimal cleanup and fuss. This dish has quickly become a go-to favorite for busy weeknights or anytime you want something special without the hassle.

One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta is in its simplicity and the quality of each ingredient. Each element brings something unique to the table, whether it’s the creamy richness, the bold tomato tang, or the fresh herbal notes, making this dish irresistibly well-rounded.

14 ounces penne pasta: The perfect sturdy pasta shape that holds the sauce beautifully.
4 cups chicken stock: Adds depth of flavor and helps cook the pasta while keeping everything juicy.
1 medium onion, chopped: Builds a fragrant, savory foundation for the sauce.
1 cup heavy whipping cream: Gives the pasta that silky, creamy texture.
4 to 5 ounces fresh spinach: Adds a fresh, vibrant green color and nutrients.
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil, chopped: Infuses the sauce with concentrated sweetness and chewiness.
1/2 cup freshly shredded parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a salty, nutty finish.
1 tablespoon sun-dried tomato oil: Packs extra flavor and richness when sautéeing the veggies.
1/3 cup tomato paste: Boosts the tomato intensity and thickens the sauce.
1 teaspoon red chili flakes: Adds a subtle kick of heat to wake up your taste buds.
5 garlic cloves, minced: For an aromatic punch that complements every bite.
1/4 cup fresh basil: Offers a fresh, herbaceous brightness right before serving.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds warmth and complexity to the dish.

How to Make One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Begin by heating the sun-dried tomato oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. As it warms, add the chopped onion and let it cook until it starts to turn a lovely golden-brown, bringing out its natural sweetness. Stir in the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes—this allows the garlic’s aroma to bloom and the tomatoes to soften, releasing their flavorful oils. Next, add the tomato paste and continue stirring for another couple of minutes to develop a rich tomato base full of depth and color.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Now it’s time for the magic to begin. Slowly pour in the chicken stock to deglaze the pan, scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom and blending them into the sauce. When everything is combined and bubbling gently, stir in the heavy whipping cream, transforming the mixture into a creamy, luscious sauce. Season generously with kosher salt, black pepper, and the red chili flakes—these bring balance, warmth, and just enough heat to make every bite exciting.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Toss the dried penne directly into the pot, pushing it beneath the surface so it can soak up all that rich, creamy sauce. Reduce the heat to low-medium and let it simmer uncovered, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Cook the pasta until it is just about 75% done; this ensures it will finish cooking perfectly once we add the fresh ingredients. Keep an eye on it and give it a taste to check for that ideal tender-but-firm bite.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Complete Cooking

Once the pasta is almost there, gently fold in the fresh spinach and basil. You’ll see the spinach quickly wilt and create a beautiful, fresh contrast to the creamy tomato sauce. If the mixture looks too thick because the spinach has soaked up some liquid, add a splash more chicken stock or water to keep it silky and spreadable. Finally, stir in the freshly shredded parmesan cheese, letting it melt through the pasta, adding a savory, cheesy finish that makes this dish feel incredibly indulgent.

Step 5: Finalize and Serve

Turn off the heat and give everything one last good stir to ensure all the flavors have melded together beautifully. Scoop generous portions into bowls, where the creamy sauce clings perfectly to each piece of penne. If you want to turn this into a heartier meal, grilled chicken on top is a fantastic option that pairs wonderfully with the flavors in this dish. Sit back and enjoy every comforting, flavor-packed bite of your One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta!

How to Serve One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta

Garnishes

To elevate your One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta look and taste, sprinkle some extra freshly grated parmesan cheese on top. A handful of chopped fresh basil or parsley adds a pop of color and a touch of herbaceous vibrancy. If you’re a fan of a little extra spice, a light drizzle of chili oil or a few more red chili flakes can perfectly complement the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

This pasta is quite a satisfying meal on its own, but if you want to round things out, a crisp green salad with a zingy lemon vinaigrette makes a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or warm, crusty baguette is also a classic companion, perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce. For a protein boost, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp blend seamlessly with the flavors in the dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving this One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta in small individual casserole dishes and top with extra cheese before popping under the broiler for a golden crust. You can also toss in toasted pine nuts or walnuts just before serving to add an unexpected crunchy texture. Lastly, layering the pasta with slices of fresh mozzarella and baking it briefly can turn it into a luscious pasta bake.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Because the sauce is creamy, it might thicken upon sitting, so a quick stir after reheating is all it needs to come back to life.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this pasta freezes well. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. Be mindful that fresh spinach might lose some texture after freezing, but the flavors remain delicious and comforting.

Reheating

Reheat your pasta gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock, cream, or water to loosen up the sauce as it warms. Microwaving is fine, just be sure to stir it occasionally for even heating. This allows the creamy texture to return without drying out.

FAQs

Can I make One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken stock with vegetable stock to keep all the rich flavors while making the dish vegetarian-friendly. It will still be creamy and satisfying.

What type of pasta works best in this recipe?

Penne is ideal because of its shape and size, which hold onto the creamy sauce well. Other tube pastas like rigatoni or ziti would also work beautifully.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, but use fresh if you can for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water diluting the sauce.

How spicy is the dish with the red chili flakes?

The red chili flakes add a gentle warmth without overpowering the dish. You can adjust the amount to suit your preferred spice level or leave them out entirely for a milder meal.

Can I add protein to the One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy bacon make fantastic additions to boost the heartiness and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together simplicity, comfort, and gourmet flavors all in one pot. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring solo. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it a regular part of your meal rotation!