Description
One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Pasta is a rich and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines tender pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, garlic, and a luscious creamy sauce made with cream cheese and Parmesan. This comforting meal is quick to prepare and perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
Liquids and Cheese
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or wide saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add liquids and pasta: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, then add the penne pasta, ensuring the pasta is mostly submerged. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil.
- Cook the pasta: Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed, about 12-15 minutes.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and spinach: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
- Make it creamy: Add the softened cream cheese and grated Parmesan, stirring continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Season: Add red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all flavors.
- Finish and serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make the dish vegetarian.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
- To add protein, grilled chicken or cooked shrimp can be mixed in before serving.
- Fresh spinach can be replaced with baby kale or arugula for a different flavor profile.
- Be sure to stir occasionally while cooking pasta in the liquid to prevent sticking.
