When I first made this Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta, I was just looking for something quick, comforting, and satisfying. What I didn’t expect was how deeply flavorful it would be for such a simple dish. The creaminess from the sauce, the burst of sweet cherry tomatoes, and the tender wilted spinach all come together in a way that makes this pasta feel like a hug in a bowl.

It’s now one of my go-to recipes when I want a meatless dinner that still feels hearty and indulgent. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight or you’re entertaining friends who are obsessed with good food, this one always delivers. The best part? You only need a handful of pantry staples and less than 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta

This dish is a beautiful balance of creamy and tangy, with a little peppery bite from fresh spinach and richness from parmesan. You’ll love how quick it is to prepare without sacrificing any of that “slow-cooked” flavor. It’s budget-friendly, easy to double for a crowd, and customizable depending on what’s in your fridge. Great for quick dinners, packed lunches, or even a cozy solo meal with a glass of wine.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta?

I love using penne for this recipe, like in the photo, because it holds onto the creamy tomato sauce so well. But the truth is, nearly any short pasta works beautifully. Rotini, rigatoni, or fusilli are all excellent choices because they offer texture and crevices that capture the sauce. Even spaghetti or fettuccine can be delicious if that’s what you have—just be sure to cook them al dente for that perfect bite.

Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works just as well if you have dietary preferences. The important thing is to pick a pasta that you enjoy and that balances well with a creamy, rich sauce.

Options for Substitutions

1. Dairy-Free Version

If you’re avoiding dairy, swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a plant-based alternative like cashew cream. Nutritional yeast can replace parmesan for that cheesy finish.

2. Add Protein

Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy tofu can bulk it up into a full meal. Stir them in at the end to soak up the sauce without overcooking.

3. Different Greens

If you don’t have spinach, kale or arugula works great. Just chop it finely and add it in the last few minutes of cooking.

4. Tomato Variations

No cherry tomatoes? Diced canned tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes in oil can bring a similar depth of flavor. Adjust cooking time slightly to suit the texture.

5. Make it Spicy

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil to the sauce for some kick. It balances the richness perfectly.

Ingredients for This Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta

Every ingredient in this dish plays a key role in building flavor and creating that luscious, creamy texture. Here’s a look at what you’ll need and why it matters:

Penne Pasta
This sturdy pasta shape is perfect for holding onto the creamy tomato sauce in every bite.

Olive Oil
Used for sautéing, it adds a rich base and subtle depth to the flavor of the sauce.

Garlic
A few minced cloves give a warm, aromatic kick and infuse the sauce with savory character.

Cherry Tomatoes
These bursty, sweet little tomatoes bring freshness and a natural sweetness to the dish.

Heavy Cream
The cream transforms the tomato base into a smooth, velvety sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.

Parmesan Cheese
Grated parmesan adds saltiness and umami, rounding out the creaminess with a nutty edge.

Fresh Spinach
This leafy green wilts into the sauce, adding color, nutrients, and a slight earthiness that cuts through the richness.

Salt and Black Pepper
Essential for seasoning—salt enhances all the flavors, while black pepper adds just the right touch of warmth.

Optional: Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
If you like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes will give the dish a gentle spicy finish.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain, but reserve about ½ cup of pasta water for adjusting the sauce later if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes

In a large skillet, heat a generous drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it brown. Toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook them for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to burst and release their juices.

Step 3: Add the Cream and Simmer

Reduce the heat to low. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to combine with the tomato juices. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes, just enough to thicken slightly and turn beautifully pink.

Step 4: Stir in the Spinach

Add the fresh spinach to the skillet. It may seem like a lot at first, but it wilts down quickly. Stir until the spinach is completely softened and blended into the sauce—about 1–2 minutes.

Step 5: Mix in the Pasta and Cheese

Toss the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy tomato spinach sauce. Add the grated parmesan and stir everything together so the sauce coats every piece. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste the dish and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If you’re craving a little spice, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes. Serve hot, with extra parmesan on top if desired.

How Long to Cook the Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta

This recipe is perfect for when you want something quick and satisfying. Here’s a breakdown of the time you’ll need:

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Pasta Cooking Time: 8–10 minutes (depending on pasta type)
Sauce & Assembly Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: Around 20–25 minutes

You can easily shave off a few minutes by multitasking—cook the pasta while sautéing the garlic and tomatoes. It all comes together fast without feeling rushed.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta

1. Salt the Pasta Water Well
It’s your first chance to build flavor in the pasta itself. Don’t skip it.

2. Don’t Overcook the Spinach
Add it last and just stir until it wilts. Overcooked spinach can become mushy and lose its vibrant green color.

3. Use Fresh Garlic
Freshly minced garlic makes a major difference compared to jarred—it gives the sauce depth and aroma.

4. Save That Pasta Water
It’s liquid gold. Adding a splash to your sauce at the end helps loosen it and adds silkiness thanks to the starch.

5. Adjust the Cream to Taste
If you want it richer, add a splash more cream. If you want it lighter, use less and balance with a bit of reserved pasta water.

6. Grate Parmesan Yourself
Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly grated melts better and tastes more robust.

7. Taste and Season at the End
The cheese and pasta water already have salt, so always taste before adding more.

8. Make it Your Own
Don’t be afraid to add your favorite veggies, proteins, or herbs—basil, mushrooms, and roasted red peppers are great additions.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a simple dish like Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta can go sideways with a few missteps. Here’s what to be mindful of:

Overcooking the Pasta
Al dente is key. Overcooked pasta turns mushy and doesn’t hold up well in the sauce. Keep a close eye and test a minute before the package suggests.

Using Too Little Salt in the Water
Your pasta water should taste like the sea. It’s the only way to properly season the noodles from the inside out.

Adding Spinach Too Early
Spinach wilts fast. Adding it too soon means it could get soggy and lose its bright green color.

Letting the Garlic Burn
Garlic cooks quickly and turns bitter if it burns. Keep the heat medium and stir constantly when sautéing.

Skipping the Pasta Water
This starchy liquid is perfect for adjusting the consistency of the sauce. It blends everything together like magic.

Not Tasting Before Serving
Every batch of tomatoes, cheese, or even pasta can vary in saltiness. Always taste and tweak your seasoning right before serving.

Using Pre-shredded Cheese
It doesn’t melt as well and can give a gritty texture. Freshly grated parmesan makes a silky difference.

Overloading with Cream
Too much cream can dull the bright tomato flavor. It’s a balance—rich, but not heavy.

What to Serve With Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta?

This pasta is rich and creamy on its own, but pairing it with the right sides makes it a complete and unforgettable meal.

Crusty Garlic Bread

Perfect for scooping up the last bit of sauce—soft inside, crisp outside.

Simple Green Salad

A fresh salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess and adds crunch.

Glass of White Wine

A dry white like Pinot Grigio complements the creamy-tomato richness without overpowering it.

Marinated Cucumbers

Cool, tangy, and crisp—this side refreshes the palate.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy and savory mushrooms pair beautifully, especially if you’re skipping meat.

Lemon Roasted Broccoli

Bright, slightly charred broccoli adds texture and brightness to the plate.

Roasted Garlic Cauliflower

Another great veggie that adds substance and pairs well with the sauce.

Grilled Chicken Strips

For a heartier meal, grilled chicken is a natural partner and soaks up the sauce deliciously.

Storage Instructions

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta stores beautifully and makes a great leftover meal for lunch or another dinner. Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty:

Refrigeration
Let the pasta cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making leftovers extra tasty.

Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. If the sauce thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of milk, cream, or water to bring it back to life.

Freezing
You can freeze this pasta, but it’s best fresh. Cream-based sauces sometimes separate when thawed. If you do freeze, use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month. Reheat slowly and stir well to recombine the sauce.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

This is an estimate based on a standard portion of the dish:

Calories: ~460
Protein: ~13g
Carbohydrates: ~48g
Fat: ~24g
Saturated Fat: ~12g
Cholesterol: ~55mg
Fiber: ~4g
Sugars: ~5g
Sodium: ~420mg
Calcium: ~180mg
Iron: ~3mg

Note: Exact values can vary based on brands, portion sizes, and substitutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta ahead of time?

Yes! It reheats well and can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container and add a splash of cream or milk when reheating to loosen the sauce.

2. What if I don’t have fresh spinach?

You can use frozen spinach—just thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it. You could also try arugula, kale, or even chopped Swiss chard.

3. Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, as long as you use vegetarian-friendly parmesan (some traditional versions use animal rennet). It’s hearty, creamy, and totally meat-free.

4. How can I make it gluten-free?

Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

5. Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, crispy chickpeas, or even white beans can be stirred in at the end for a protein boost.

6. How do I prevent the sauce from getting too thick?

If it gets too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water or a little extra cream while stirring. This will smooth it out without watering it down.

7. Can I make it spicy?

Definitely. A pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil gives the dish a warm, spicy edge that balances the creaminess.

8. What’s the best way to serve this for a dinner party?

Serve it fresh in a warm bowl, topped with a sprinkle of parmesan and some fresh basil or parsley for color. Pair with a salad and some garlic bread for a complete spread.

Conclusion

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta is the kind of dish that checks all the boxes—it’s comforting, quick, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, it’s one of those recipes that feels a little special without requiring a ton of effort. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you get a meal that delivers on both taste and soul-satisfying warmth.

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta

Author: Sara McKenney
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Looking for a quick weeknight dinner idea that’s creamy, rich, and loaded with flavor? This Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for busy nights, cozy evenings, or when you just want something really satisfying. With a luscious tomato-cream sauce, sweet bursts of cherry tomatoes, and fresh wilted spinach, this easy recipe is a go-to for pasta lovers. It’s a delicious vegetarian option packed with flavor, making it one of the best healthy-ish pasta ideas you can whip up in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re after a simple dinner recipe, a creamy pasta dish, or a meal prep lunch that keeps well, this one delivers in every bite.

Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups cherry tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
3 cups fresh spinach
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to burst, about 5–7 minutes.
Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Add the spinach and stir until wilted.
Add the cooked pasta and parmesan cheese. Stir to combine. If sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water.
Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Serve hot with extra cheese if desired.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes