If you are searching for a comforting yet vibrant dish that bursts with flavor and ease, this Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It masterfully combines the richness of creamy tomato sauce with the fresh, bright notes of spinach, wrapped around perfectly cooked penne pasta. Each bite offers a delightful balance of tangy, creamy, and savory flavors, making it an irresistible weeknight meal or a casual dinner to impress without a fuss. Trust me, once you try this creamy tomato and spinach pasta recipe, it will find a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

12 oz penne pasta uncooked, golden tubular pasta scattered neatly; small glass bowl with 2 tablespoons golden olive oil; three garlic cloves, whole and peeled next to a small pile of minced garlic; can of crushed tomatoes displaying rich, vibrant red sauce spilling slightly onto a white ceramic plate; half cup heavy cream in a small clear glass measuring cup showing smooth, creamy texture; fresh spinach leaves vibrant dark green, loosely arranged in a small bunch with visible veins and natural curl; half cup grated Parmesan cheese in a small white bowl showing crumbly, pale yellow texture; small wooden spoon with mixed dried Italian herbs, earthy green and brown tones; salt and black pepper in small white bowls with visible grains and coarse ground pepper; all ingredients carefully spaced on a clean white marble surface with natural soft daylight casting subtle shadows, styled to emphasize contrasting colors and textures, natural and rustic feel, overhead shot, top down view, flat lay photography, professional food styling --ar 1:1 --q 2 --s 750 --v 6.1

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering a handful of fresh, simple ingredients is all it takes to create this dish, where every element plays its part in delivering a tasty and satisfying meal. The ingredients work together to offer creaminess, tang, earthiness, and a beautiful splash of green.

12 oz penne pasta: The perfect tube-shaped pasta to hold that luscious sauce in every bite.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a smooth base flavor and helps bring out the aroma of garlic.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a fragrant and savory backbone for the sauce.
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes: Brings tanginess and vibrant color to the creamy sauce.
1/2 cup heavy cream: Delivers the signature luscious creaminess that sets this pasta apart.
4 cups fresh spinach: Offers freshness, nutritional goodness, and a lovely green contrast.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth and smooth texture to the final dish.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs: A fragrant mix to elevate the sauce with Italian flair.

How to Make Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—firm but tender to the bite. This step ensures the pasta will hold up well as it soaks up the rich sauce later. Once cooked, drain and set it aside to prepare your sauce.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Olive Oil

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for about one minute until it releases its fragrant aroma and starts to turn golden. This simple step is where the flavor foundation begins, creating a warm and inviting base for the tomato sauce.

Step 3: Simmer with Tomatoes and Italian Herbs

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and sprinkle in the dried Italian herbs. Allow the mixture to simmer for about five minutes, stirring occasionally to let the flavors meld and the sauce thicken slightly. This is the moment the sauce develops its rich, tangy personality.

Step 4: Incorporate Cream and Spinach

Turn the heat down to low and stir in the heavy cream carefully so the sauce becomes silky smooth. Then add the fresh spinach, letting it wilt gently into the warm sauce. This combination creates the signature creamy yet fresh vibe of this recipe.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Return the drained pasta back into the skillet, tossing everything together to ensure each piece is lovingly coated with the creamy tomato and spinach sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese to add an inviting depth while seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Dish out your creamy tomato and spinach pasta right away to enjoy it at its best—warm, comforting, and utterly delicious. For an optional finishing touch, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese over the top as a final flourish of flavor.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your serving experience, consider garnishing this pasta with freshly grated Parmesan, a handful of chopped fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to introduce a subtle heat contrast. Each garnish adds a new dimension of charm and flavor.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with crisp green salads dressed in a light vinaigrette, crusty garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce, or roasted vegetables that add extra layers of texture and nutrition. Together, they create a full meal that’s balanced and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this creamy tomato and spinach pasta recipe in colorful bowls to highlight the vibrant sauce and greens. For a fun twist, try stuffing the pasta into hollowed-out tomatoes and baking briefly, or layering it in a baking dish topped with extra cheese and breadcrumbs for a bubbly crusty bake.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover creamy tomato and spinach pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dish keeps its flavors and texture well, making it a perfect option for quick lunches and easy dinners.

Freezing

You can freeze this pasta, though for the best quality, do so without the Parmesan cheese mixed in. Freeze it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring often to maintain the creamy texture. Add a splash of cream or water if the sauce thickens too much during reheating to restore that perfect silky consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne works great to catch the sauce, feel free to swap for fusilli, rigatoni, or even spaghetti depending on what you have on hand or prefer. The sauce pairs well with many shapes.

Is there a dairy-free version of this dish?

Yes, you can replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free creamer, and use nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan-style cheese to maintain that creamy, cheesy profile without dairy.

Can I add protein to the creamy tomato and spinach pasta recipe?

Definitely. Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy tofu cubes are great additions. Add them toward the end of cooking to warm through and complement the creamy sauce.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the tomato and cream mixture simmer a little longer before adding the pasta, or add a tablespoon of tomato paste for extra richness and body.

Is fresh spinach essential, or can I use frozen?

Fresh spinach is ideal for its texture and flavor, but frozen spinach works in a pinch. Thaw and drain excess water before adding to avoid a watery sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta Recipe is one of those heartwarming dishes that feels like a hug in food form. It’s straightforward to prepare, packed with wonderful flavors, and perfect for any occasion where you want delicious comfort without complicated steps. I hope you give it a try and discover just how satisfying simple ingredients can be when combined with love and care.