One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta (Print-Friendly Version)

A creamy, comforting pasta with spinach and tomatoes cooked all in one pot for an easy, flavorful dinner.

# What You'll Need:

→ Aromatics and Seasoning

01 - 5 garlic cloves, minced
02 - 1 tsp red pepper flakes
03 - 1 tsp black pepper
04 - 1 medium onion, diced

→ Oils and Sauces

05 - 1 tbsp sun-dried tomato oil
06 - 1/3 cup tomato paste

→ Vegetables and Herbs

07 - 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
08 - 5 oz fresh spinach
09 - 1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced

→ Liquids

10 - 4 cups chicken stock
11 - 1 cup heavy cream, room temperature

→ Pasta and Cheese

12 - 400 g penne pasta
13 - 1 tsp kosher salt
14 - 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated

# How to Make It:

01 - Heat sun-dried tomato oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until slightly browned. Stir in minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes while stirring frequently to avoid burning the garlic. Incorporate tomato paste and cook for an additional 2 minutes, continuing to stir.
02 - Gradually add chicken stock to deglaze the pot, mixing thoroughly with the tomato paste. Pour in the room-temperature heavy cream and stir to combine. Season with black pepper, kosher salt, and red pepper flakes, ensuring even distribution of spices.
03 - Add penne pasta to the pot and stir into the sauce. Reduce heat to low-medium and cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently. Monitor pasta to achieve approximately 75% doneness, as it will finish cooking in the sauce.
04 - Incorporate fresh spinach and basil, allowing the spinach to wilt thoroughly. If the mixture becomes too thick, add a splash of water or chicken stock to maintain desired consistency.
05 - Stir in the finely grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and integrated, creating a creamy texture. Remove the pot from heat, mix everything to combine evenly, and serve immediately. Optionally, garnish with grilled chicken for added protein.

# Additional Tips:

01 - To prevent curdling, ensure the heavy cream is at room temperature before adding and stir gradually over medium-low heat.
02 - Avoid overcooking pasta; reduce standard cooking time by 1-2 minutes as it will continue to cook in the sauce.
03 - Add fresh spinach just before finishing to retain vibrant color and nutrients.