Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach One Pot Penne
Creamy, tangy, and packed with greens, this one-pot wonder delivers comfort in every bite.
Total: 30 minPrep: 10 minCook: 20 minServes 4Difficulty: Easy⭐ 4.8 (125+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (not oil-packed)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Steps
- 1 In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- 2 Add penne, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat pasta.
- 3 Pour in broth and water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
- 4 Cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and liquid has reduced.
- 5 Stir in spinach until wilted, then mix in Parmesan and heavy cream until creamy.
- 6 Taste and adjust seasoning, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot.
Equipment
- Large skillet with lid
- Wooden spoon
Variations
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Swap penne for your favorite pasta shape.
Substitutions
- Use olive oil-based sun-dried tomatoes, but drain excess oil before adding.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
Pairings
- Chianti wine
- Sparkling water with lemon
Nutrition
Calories:
600 kcal
Fat:
25g fat
Carbs:
70g carbohydrates
Protein:
20g protein
Fiber:
8g fiber
Sugar:
10g sugar
Sodium:
800mg sodium
Tips
- Keep an eye on the liquid level to ensure the pasta cooks properly.
- For extra flavor, toast the sun-dried tomatoes in the oven for 5 minutes before cooking.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth.
Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
FAQ
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead?
Fresh tomatoes won't provide the same concentrated flavor, but you can try sun-drying them first or using a mix for a fresh twist.