Looking for a weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and speedy? This 20-Minute Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta is your ticket to a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With vibrant tomatoes, tender spinach, and a luscious creamy sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
In just a few simple steps, you’ll transform pantry staples into a restaurant-quality dish. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this recipe proves that quick meals can be gourmet too.
1. Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start, make sure you have everything on hand:
– 8 ounces of your favorite pasta (penne, fusilli, or linguine)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
– 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
– Salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste
– Grated Parmesan and fresh basil for garnish
2. Prep the Spinach and Tomatoes
Start by washing and chopping the spinach into bite-size pieces. Open and measure out your crushed tomatoes so everything is ready to go. Prepping in advance means a smooth, nonstop cooking experience.
Pro Tip
If you’re really pressed for time, use pre-chopped baby spinach and high-quality tomato passata for an even faster workflow.
3. Cook the Pasta Al Dente
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions, usually 8–10 minutes for al dente. Remember: slightly firmer pasta holds up better once mixed with the sauce.
Timing
Reserve about ½ cup of pasta cooking water before you drain—it helps adjust the sauce consistency later.
4. Sauté Garlic and Onions
While the pasta bubbles away, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
5. Build Your Creamy Tomato Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream, creating a silky, pink-hued sauce. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
Quick Adjustment
If the sauce is too thick, stir in reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Wilt the Spinach in the Sauce
Add the chopped spinach directly into the skillet. It will look like a lot at first, but spinach wilts quickly. Stir for about 1–2 minutes until all the leaves shrink and blend into the sauce.
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Transfer the drained pasta into the skillet with your creamy tomato spinach mixture. Toss thoroughly so every strand or tube is coated. Heat together for another minute to marry the flavors.
Extra Creaminess
For an indulgent touch, stir in an extra tablespoon of butter or a handful of grated Parmesan right before serving.
8. Serve with a Garnish
Divide the pasta among plates or bowls. Top each portion with a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves and an extra shower of Parmesan cheese. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds a final flourish.
And there you have it: a vibrant, creamy, and nutritious pasta dish on the table in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner parties, this Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta strikes a balance between comfort and sophistication. Enjoy every bite!