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Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Spinach Penne

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Spinach Penne
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This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Spinach Penne is a rich, comforting one-pot pasta packed with bold flavors. Garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste create a deep savory base, while heavy cream and Parmesan bring silky smoothness. Fresh spinach and basil add brightness and balance, making this dish both hearty and fresh at the same time.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 tablespoon sun-dried tomato oil (from the jar)

  • 1 medium onion, diced

  • 5 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

  • ⅓ cup tomato paste

  • 4 cups chicken stock

  • 1 cup heavy cream (room temperature)

  • 14 oz penne pasta

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

  • 5 oz fresh spinach

  • ¼ cup fresh basil, thinly sliced

  • ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add the sun-dried tomato oil.

Once hot, add the diced onion and cook until soft and lightly golden, about 4–5 minutes.

Stir in the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently so the garlic doesn’t burn.

Add the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly to deepen the flavor.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Slowly pour in the chicken stock while stirring to deglaze the pan and combine everything smoothly.

Add the heavy cream and mix well.

Season with kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir until fully combined.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Add the penne pasta directly into the pot. Stir to coat it in the sauce.

Reduce heat to low-medium and cook uncovered for about 10–12 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Cook until the pasta is nearly tender (about 75–85% done).

Step 4: Add Greens & Finish

Stir in the fresh spinach and basil. Allow the spinach to wilt into the sauce.

If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or additional chicken stock.

Finally, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for smooth melting and better flavor.

  • Room temperature cream prevents curdling when added to hot liquid.

  • Make it protein-rich: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage.

  • Vegetarian option: Swap chicken stock for vegetable broth.

  • Extra creamy texture: Add an additional 2–3 tablespoons of cream cheese.

Find it online: https://tastyquickly.com/creamy-sun-dried-tomato-spinach-penne/