One-Pan Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta Recipe

If you’re anything like me and adore pasta dishes that are as effortless as they are delicious, then you’re in for a treat with this One-Pan Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta Recipe. It’s one of those meals you can throw together on a busy weeknight, but still impress yourself with how rich and flavorful it turns out. Trust me, once you’ve tried this, it’ll quickly become a go-to because it’s creamy, tangy, and packed with fresh spinach—everything you want in a cozy pasta dish without the fuss of multiple pots.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this One-Pan Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta Recipe works together to build layers of flavor while keeping things light and wholesome. When shopping, I recommend choosing ripe cherry tomatoes for that burst of sweetness and fresh spinach that’s still vibrant and crisp.

• Tagliatelle nests (or spaghetti): Nests are easier to manage in the pan, but any long pasta works well.
• Cherry tomatoes: A mix of red and yellow is fun and flavorful, bringing a natural sweetness.
• Red onion: Adds a subtle bite; slicing thinly helps it cook down perfectly.
• Fresh spinach: Wilts down beautifully and keeps things nutritious.
• Tomato puree or crushed tomatoes: The base of our sauce—rich and tangy.
• Tomato paste (optional): Boosts depth and color in the sauce; I usually add it.
• Garlic cloves: Thin slices infuse the dish with warmth.
• Dried oregano and basil: Classic herbs that tie the sauce together.
• Chili flakes (optional): For a slight kick—feel free to skip if you’re spice-sensitive.
• Plant-based cream or heavy cream: Oat cream is my go-to for dairy-free, but heavy cream makes it ultra indulgent.
• Vegetable broth: Helps cook the pasta and adds savory flavor.
• Olive oil: For richness and to keep everything smooth.
• Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.

Variations

I love mixing up this One-Pan Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta Recipe now and then — it makes the dish feel new every time. Don’t be shy about making it your own; I encourage you to experiment based on your mood and pantry.

• Add Protein: Sometimes I toss in some cooked chickpeas or shredded rotisserie chicken to bulk it up for extra staying power.
• Dairy-Free or Vegan: Using oat cream or another plant-based cream keeps it creamy and perfect for dairy-free diets.
• Extra Veggies: Mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers mix in nicely—just add them in when layering the pan.
• Kick of Spice: If you like heat, I’ve found adding crushed red pepper flakes amps it up without overpowering the tomato flavor.

How to Make One-Pan Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Layer Your Ingredients Like a Pro

Start by grabbing your biggest pan and placing the pasta nests right in the center. This is a little trick I learned to keep the pasta from sticking to the edges while cooking. Then, scatter those halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, garlic, and fresh spinach all around the pasta. Dollop the tomato puree and optional tomato paste over the pasta nests — this is where your sauce magic starts. Drizzle generously with olive oil. Don’t rush this part because arranging evenly helps everything cook perfectly later.

Step 2: Season Everything Thoroughly

Sprinkle the dried oregano, basil, chili flakes if you’re using them, plus salt and pepper across the entire pan. I usually season a bit more than I think I need because the sauce will mellow out the flavors as it cooks, and you want every bite to be well-seasoned.

Step 3: Pour in the Cream and Broth

Now, gently pour in the plant-based cream and vegetable broth, making sure the pasta is mostly covered with the liquid. This is crucial—too little liquid and the pasta won’t cook evenly, too much and the sauce gets thin. The cream makes the sauce luxuriously silky, so don’t skip it if you want that dreamy texture!

Step 4: Cover and Let it Simmer

Pop on a lid and bring your pan to a boil over medium heat. Then, lower the heat and let it cook for 11 to 13 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help the pasta absorb that creamy tomato goodness. I usually peek after 10 minutes to check the pasta texture because every stove is different—perfectly tender but with a tiny bit of bite is what you’re aiming for.

Step 5: Uncover and Finish Cooking

Remove the lid and give everything a good stir so the sauce thickens up and coats the noodles beautifully. If the sauce feels a little watery, let it simmer uncovered for another 2-3 minutes. This step is where the magic happens—I love watching the sauce turn velvety and cling to every strand!

Step 6: Serve and Savor

Serve it straight from the pan while it’s warm. It’s my favorite kind of rustic comfort food: cozy, simple, and loaded with flavor.

How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

I always top this pasta with fresh basil leaves for an herby pop of color and flavor. Sometimes I sprinkle a bit of vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast to add a cheesy note, or drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil for richness. These simple touches make it feel special without extra effort.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty on its own, but if you want a side, a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or some garlic bread on the side complements it beautifully. I’ve also served it alongside roasted vegetables for a fuller meal during chilly evenings.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, I like serving this pasta family-style in a big deep dish or cast-iron pan, so everyone can help themselves. Adding edible flowers or a sprinkle of fresh microgreens on top adds a pop of elegance that impresses guests without extra work—you’ll get compliments for sure!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pasta soaks up even more flavor overnight, which I surprisingly enjoy! Just keep in mind the spinach will wilt more, so it’s best eaten within a couple of days.

Freezing

This One-Pan Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta Recipe freezes okay, but texture may change slightly (especially the spinach). I recommend freezing only if you plan to reheat for casual meals where texture isn’t critical. Use airtight containers and thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

When reheating, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the sauce. Microwaving works fine too but can dry it out a bit if you’re not careful. Stir halfway through heating so it warms evenly and stays creamy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this One-Pan Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta Recipe turns out every single time—it’s comforting, simple, and packed with fresh flavors that feel like a warm hug after a long day. When I first tried this, I was amazed at how effortlessly it came together, and I’m confident you’ll enjoy the same ease and satisfaction. If you want a recipe that’s fuss-free, delicious, and perfect for sharing (or savoring solo), this one should definitely be on your weeknight menu rotation. Give it a go and let me know your favorite twist!

Print