Description
A delightful One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta that is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 diced yellow onion
- 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
- 8 ounces dry penne pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 pinch kosher salt and cracked black pepper
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 handful chopped fresh basil leaves
- optional Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add one diced yellow onion and 2 cups of halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for about 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and the tomatoes soften, releasing their juices into a jammy consistency.
- Next, toss in 8 ounces of dry penne pasta along with 2 cups of marinara sauce and 2 cups of water. Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and a pinch of kosher salt and cracked black pepper. Increase the heat to medium-high, bringing everything to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed some of the sauce.
- Remove the lid and lower the heat slightly. Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream, 4 cups of fresh baby spinach, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the creamy sauce.
- For the final touch, remove the skillet from heat and garnish with a handful of chopped fresh basil leaves. If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top as well. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Skillet Selection: Use a large, deep skillet with a fitted lid to accommodate all the ingredients and ensure even cooking.
- Onion and Tomato Base: Sauté the onions and tomatoes well until they're softened to maximize flavor.
- Stirring is Key: Stir continuously after adding heavy cream, spinach, and cheese to achieve that creamy consistency.
- Pasta Precision: Cook until just al dente, as it will continue to absorb sauce while cooling.
- Tweak to Taste: Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- Save for Later: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg