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CREAMY TOMATO PASTA centered hero view, clean and uncluttered
Thomas Baker

Creamy Tomato Pasta: Easy Recipe for Delicious Dinner

This One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta is a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring fresh baby spinach, mozzarella, and a rich tomato basil pasta sauce, it combines creamy textures with vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Enjoy a hearty, vegetarian pasta that's both comforting and simple to prepare.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 447
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup diced yellow onion
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 8 oz. dry penne pasta
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 2 cups water
  • 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp. cracked black pepper
  • 2 to 3 generous handfuls fresh baby spinach
  • 1/3 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Method
 

  1. Heat 2 Tbsp. olive oil in a large skillet with a fitted lid over medium heat.
  2. Add diced onion and halved cherry tomatoes; cook 7 to 8 minutes until onion is soft and tomatoes break down.
  3. Add penne pasta, marinara sauce, water, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
  4. Increase heat to medium-high, bring to a simmer, then cover and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 12 minutes until pasta is al dente.
  5. Remove lid and stir in heavy cream, fresh spinach, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
  6. Cook while stirring continuously for about 2 minutes until spinach wilts and cheese melts.
  7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
  8. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy tomato basil pasta dinner.

Notes

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze in zip-top bags or containers for up to 2 months; defrost overnight before reheating.
  • Reheat on stovetop over medium heat or microwave until steaming.