This One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta is a creamy, flavorful pasta dish made with fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich tomato cream sauce. Cooking everything in one pot makes it quick, easy, and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
5 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp sun-dried tomato oil (from the jar of tomatoes)
¼ cup fresh basil, thinly sliced
4 cups chicken stock
14 oz penne pasta
1 tsp kosher salt
5 oz fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream, room temperature
½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese, finely grated
⅓ cup tomato paste
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (from a jar)
1 medium onion, diced
Optional: Grilled chicken for serving
1. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat a pot over medium-high heat and add sun-dried tomato oil.
Add diced onion and cook until slightly browned.
Stir in minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes; cook 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.
Mix in tomato paste and cook another 2 minutes.
2. Build the Sauce
Slowly pour in chicken stock to deglaze the pan and combine with the tomato paste.
Add heavy cream and stir well.
Season with black pepper, kosher salt, and red pepper flakes.
3. Cook the Pasta
Add penne pasta to the pot and stir to coat with the sauce.
Reduce heat to low-medium and cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
Check pasta to ensure it’s about 75% cooked.
4. Add Vegetables and Cheese
Stir in fresh spinach and basil, allowing the spinach to wilt.
Add a splash of chicken stock if the sauce is too thick.
Mix in Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
5. Finalize and Serve
Turn off heat and stir everything together until creamy and well combined.
Serve in bowls, optionally topped with grilled chicken.
Extra protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more substantial meal.
Veggie swap: Try adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for variety.
One-pot cleanup: Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.