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Easy to Make Creamy Tomato Spinach Skillet Pasta

Sweet Creamy Tomato Spinach Skillet Pasta Recipe

A creamy, comforting dish that combines the richness of tomatoes and spinach with the savory flavors of Italian seasoning. Perfect for busy nights, this Creamy Tomato Spinach Skillet Pasta is a one-pan meal that comes together in under 30 minutes!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 28 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Skillet Cooking
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta:
  • 8 oz 225 g penne pasta
  • Salt for the pasta water
For the Sauce:
  • 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

Method
 

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot, add penne pasta, and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining and set the pasta aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion for 4-5 minutes until translucent, then add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes with juices and vegetable broth. Stir and bring to a simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. Incorporate Cream: Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream (or coconut milk). Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  5. Season the Sauce: Add dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. Add Spinach: Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it to coat in the creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
  8. Finish with Cheese: Stir in grated Parmesan (or nutritional yeast). Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve.

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.

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