Description
A delicious and comforting creamy one-pot pasta recipe that combines pasta, fresh spinach, diced tomatoes, and a rich parmesan cream sauce. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick dinner, requiring minimal cleanup and packed with flavor from Italian seasoning and fresh basil.
Ingredients
Primary Ingredients
- 12 oz. short pasta (rotini, penne, ziti, etc.)
- 3 cups vegetable broth (chicken broth can be used alternatively)
- 1 can diced tomatoes with liquid (approximately 14 oz.)
- 1½ cups marinara sauce
- 3 cups chopped baby spinach, fresh (loosely packed)
- ¼ cup onion, finely chopped
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 - 3 tsp Italian seasoning
For the Cream Sauce
- ½ cup heavy cream (more can be added as desired)
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp cracked black pepper
- ½ tsp sea salt
Optional Garnish
- ⅓ cup fresh basil, chopped (optional but recommended)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, combine the pasta, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes with their liquid, marinara sauce, chopped spinach, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Stir all the ingredients well to ensure everything is mixed evenly.
- Cook Pasta: Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Cook uncovered for about 13-15 minutes or until the pasta is nearly al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Add the heavy cream and freshly grated parmesan cheese to the pot. Stir continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Let it simmer gently for a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and meld flavors together.
- Finish and Serve: Just before serving, stir in the freshly chopped basil to add a burst of freshness. Serve the pasta hot, optionally topped with an extra sprinkle of parmesan cheese for added richness and presentation.
Notes
- For a slightly lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Use chicken broth if not vegetarian; it adds extra depth of flavor.
- Do not drain the diced tomatoes to maintain the perfect sauce consistency.
- Adjust the amount of Italian seasoning based on your taste preference.
- Fresh basil is optional but highly recommended for added aroma and flavor.
- Stirring regularly during cooking prevents pasta from sticking to the pot.
- If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it.
