Save to Pinterest A luscious, comforting pasta dish simmered in a single pot, featuring tender noodles, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a medley of fresh herbs in a velvety garlic cream sauce.
I first made this pasta when I needed a quick weeknight dinner and it instantly became a family favorite for its creamy texture and vibrant herbs.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine or penne
- Vegetables & Aromatics: 2 tbsp olive oil, 4 cloves garlic minced, 1 small yellow onion finely diced, 1 cup (60 g) sun-dried tomatoes julienned (oil packed drained), 3 cups (90 g) baby spinach
- Liquids: 3 ½ cups (830 ml) vegetable broth, 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk
- Cheese & Herbs: ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp dried Italian herb mix (basil oregano thyme), ¼ cup (10 g) fresh basil chopped, 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Seasonings: Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven heat olive oil over medium heat Add garlic and onion sauté 2 3 minutes until fragrant and translucent
- Step 2:
- Stir in sun dried tomatoes and sauté for 1 minute
- Step 3:
- Add uncooked pasta vegetable broth cream and milk Stir to submerge the pasta
- Step 4:
- Sprinkle in dried Italian herbs salt and pepper Bring to a gentle boil then reduce heat to medium low Simmer uncovered stirring frequently for 10 12 minutes or until pasta is al dente and liquid has reduced to a creamy sauce
- Step 5:
- Add spinach and cook for 2 3 minutes until wilted
- Step 6:
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens
- Step 7:
- Remove from heat Fold in fresh basil and parsley Adjust seasoning as needed
- Step 8:
- Serve hot garnished with extra Parmesan and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired
Save to Pinterest This dish always brings my family together around the table especially on busy nights when comfort food is needed most
Serving Suggestions
Pair this creamy pasta with a crisp green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
Variations
Add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein or substitute gluten free pasta to keep it gluten free.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stove.
Save to Pinterest
This recipe brings comfort and joy in every bite—perfect for any pasta lover seeking an easy homemade meal.