Pin to Board 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.
This dish quickly became a family favorite for busy weeknights when I wanted something creamy without a lot of cleanup.
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
Pin to Board This meal brings back memories of cozy family dinners where everyone enjoys the rich flavors and comforting warmth together.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this pasta with a fresh green salad and a glass of crisp white wine for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently to preserve creaminess.
Variations
Add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein or substitute gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
Pin to Board 
This one-pot dish makes dinner effortless and delicious with minimal cleanup required.
Common Questions
- → Can I substitute the pasta type?
Yes, fettuccine or penne work well, but feel free to use any pasta you prefer including gluten-free varieties.
- → How can I make the sauce thicker?
Allow the pasta to simmer uncovered, stirring frequently, so excess liquid reduces and the Parmesan melts smoothly for a creamy consistency.
- → What herbs are included in the dish?
A blend of dried Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme, along with fresh basil and parsley, create a fragrant herbaceous flavor.
- → Is it possible to add protein?
Yes, cooked chicken, shrimp, or white beans can be added to enhance protein content without altering the dish's essence.
- → What wine pairs well with this pasta?
A crisp Pinot Grigio or a light-bodied red wine complement the creamy and herbal notes beautifully.
- → Can I use a lighter dairy option?
Substituting heavy cream with half-and-half will reduce richness while maintaining a smooth sauce.