Name: Sweet Creamy Tomato Spinach Skillet Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 28 min
Ingredients: 8 oz 225 g penne pasta; Salt (for the pasta water); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion (diced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 can (14 oz diced tomatoes, with juices); 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (dairy-free option); 4 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped); 1 tsp dried basil; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option); Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

In today’s busy world, finding meals that are quick, easy, and full of flavor is essential. Creamy Tomato Spinach Skillet Pasta is the perfect answer to this dilemma. This dish combines the richness of a creamy tomato sauce with vibrant spinach, all enveloping your favorite pasta. The result is a comforting, flavorful meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy and Comforting: The combination of heavy cream and canned tomatoes creates a rich, indulgent sauce, making every bite comforting and satisfying.
Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Nutrient-Packed: Spinach provides iron, calcium, and fiber, while the tomatoes are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, boosting the health benefits of the dish.
Customizable: Want to adjust the flavor or texture? You can swap the pasta, use coconut milk instead of cream, or add in your favorite vegetables. The options are endless!
One-Pan Wonder: This recipe requires only one pan for cooking, minimizing cleanup time.

Ingredients Breakdown

This dish relies on simple, fresh ingredients that bring out deep, rich flavors. Here’s a look at what you’ll need:

Penne Pasta: Penne’s tube shape is ideal for creamy sauces as it holds the sauce well. You can substitute with fettuccine, spaghetti, or any pasta of your choice.
Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the onions and garlic, olive oil adds richness and depth of flavor. It also provides healthy fats.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics form the flavor base for the creamy sauce, bringing sweetness and depth.
Canned Diced Tomatoes: The foundation of the creamy sauce. These tomatoes add a tangy, slightly acidic flavor that balances the richness of the cream.
Vegetable Broth: A savory base for the sauce that also helps thicken it. Feel free to use chicken broth or even water in a pinch.
Heavy Cream: The key to achieving a smooth, creamy texture. You can substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully into the sauce, adding vibrant color and a nutritional punch.
Herbs and Seasonings: Basil and oregano are staples in Italian cuisine, infusing the dish with aromatic flavors. You can also add red pepper flakes for a little extra heat.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a savory depth and umami flavor to the sauce. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best results.

Easy & Quick Creamy Tomato Spinach Skillet Pasta

Step-by-Step Instructions on Creamy Tomato Spinach Skillet Pasta

Let’s break down the preparation process into easy-to-follow steps:

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add penne pasta (or any pasta of your choice) and cook according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes for al dente. Don’t forget to reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining—it will help you adjust the sauce’s consistency later.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until they’re translucent and soft, about 4-5 minutes. Then, add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This creates a solid flavor base for the sauce.

3. Add Tomatoes and Broth

Once the garlic is aromatic, pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Then, add the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer for another 2-3 minutes. You want the sauce to be rich and flavorful.

4. Stir in the Cream

Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently until the sauce becomes smooth and velvety. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-4 minutes so it thickens slightly. If the sauce becomes too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.

5. Season the Sauce

Now that the cream has been incorporated and the sauce is thickened, it’s time to season. Add dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning based on your preferences, keeping in mind that the Parmesan cheese will also add saltiness to the final dish. If you want to increase the heat, add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick.

6. Add the Spinach

Once the sauce is seasoned to your liking, it’s time to add the spinach. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves, and cook them just until they’re wilted—this should only take 2-3 minutes. The spinach will shrink down considerably, brightening up the sauce with its vibrant green color while adding a healthy dose of nutrients.

7. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy tomato spinach sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce, ensuring that each piece is coated in the creamy, flavorful mixture. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up, achieving the perfect creamy texture.

8. Finish and Garnish

Once the pasta and sauce are well combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of richness. If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can substitute the Parmesan with nutritional yeast. Garnish with fresh basil leaves to add a burst of color and a fresh, aromatic note to the dish.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato Spinach Skillet Pasta

This dish is hearty and satisfying on its own, but here are some ways to elevate the meal:

Serve with Garlic Bread: The creamy sauce is perfect for soaking up with some warm, crusty garlic bread. The crispy, savory bread will complement the richness of the pasta.
Pair with a Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish. Try a salad with arugula, spinach, or mixed greens for an extra burst of freshness.
Add Protein: For those looking to add more protein, grilled chicken or shrimp can be excellent additions. Simply cook them separately and toss them with the pasta at the end.

Easy to Make Creamy Tomato Spinach Skillet Pasta

Recipe Variations

While this Creamy Tomato Spinach Skillet Pasta is delicious as written, you can customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs:

Gluten-Free Pasta: Swap out regular pasta for gluten-free options like rice pasta or gluten-free penne. The sauce will still be just as creamy and satisfying.
Vegan Option: For a vegan twist, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk, use vegan Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast, and opt for vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.
Extra Veggies: You can easily add more vegetables, such as sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini, to this dish. These veggies will pair well with the creamy sauce and add even more flavor.
Spicy Kick: If you prefer more heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add jalapeños to the sauce for a spicy twist.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Tomato Spinach Skillet Pasta

Don’t Overcook the Spinach: Spinach wilts quickly, so be sure to cook it just until it’s tender but still vibrant. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture and a loss of nutrients.
Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta water before draining—it’s packed with starch and can help you adjust the sauce’s consistency, ensuring it clings to the pasta perfectly.
Adjust Creaminess: If the sauce feels too thick, add more reserved pasta water to create a smooth, luxurious texture. You can also add a little extra cream for richness.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

One of the great things about Creamy Tomato Spinach Skillet Pasta is that it makes for excellent leftovers! Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Storing Leftovers: Place the leftover pasta in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it to prevent condensation inside the container.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a bit of reserved pasta water to help restore the creamy texture. You can also reheat it in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but the texture of the spinach might change slightly. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Notes:

For a gluten-free version, swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta.
Vegan options: Use coconut milk and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free alternative.
Add protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
Customize with additional veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Method: Skillet

Cuisine: Italian

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 450 kcal

Yield: 4 servings

Nutritional Information

This Creamy Tomato Spinach Skillet Pasta is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional facts per serving:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	450 kcal
Carbohydrates	60g
Protein	15g
Fat	22g
Saturated Fat	7g
Fiber	5g
Sugar	8g
Cholesterol	35mg
Sodium	400mg
Vitamin A	80% of daily value
Vitamin C	30% of daily value
Calcium	15% of daily value
Iron	10% of daily value

Creamy Tomato Spinach Skillet Pasta Recipes

Final Thoughts on Creamy Tomato Spinach Skillet Pasta

Creamy Tomato Spinach Skillet Pasta is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with vibrant flavors. It’s easy to prepare, requires just one pan, and is fully customizable to suit your tastes. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or at a weekend dinner party, this dish will impress with its savory depth and creamy goodness. The spinach adds a healthy boost of nutrients while complementing the creamy sauce and tangy tomatoes.