Go Back
- 12 ounces of pasta (fettuccine or penne) - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes - 1 cup heavy cream - 4 cups fresh spinach - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped - Salt and pepper to taste - Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta with Spinach

Indulge in a comforting bowl of Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta with Spinach, where classic Italian flavors meet fresh ingredients for a dish that's both satisfying and nutritious. This easy recipe combines rich heavy cream, vibrant spinach, and aromatic basil, perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. Discover the step-by-step instructions, essential ingredients, and health benefits that make this pasta a culinary delight worth trying. Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture with every bite!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

12 oz. pasta (fettuccine or penne)

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside, making sure to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water for later use.

    Create the Sauce Base: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, ensuring it does not turn brown as you want a gentle, aromatic flavor.

      Add Tomatoes: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, and season with salt, freshly ground pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors blend beautifully.

        Incorporate Cream: Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, then carefully pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine the ingredients. Let the sauce simmer gently for an additional 3-4 minutes, so it thickens slightly.

          Mix in Spinach and Cheese: Add the chopped spinach to the sauce, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir the mixture well until the spinach has wilted and the cheese has melted, creating a luxuriously creamy texture.

            Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta directly into the sauce. Gently toss everything together until each piece of pasta is fully coated in the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually mix in some of the reserved pasta water until you've reached your desired consistency.

              Finish with Basil: Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the chopped basil. Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed to achieve your preferred flavor.

                Serve: Divide the creamy tomato basil pasta among serving bowls. For an extra touch, garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delectable homemade meal!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 25 mins | 4 servings