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One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta

One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta: Quick & Comforting Delight

One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta is a quick and comforting vegetarian dish that combines rich flavors and simple preparation.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil Adds richness and depth of flavor; substitute with avocado oil for a neutral taste.
  • 1 medium diced yellow onion Provides aromatic sweetness and base flavor; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes Create a fresh and bursty flavor when cooked; regular tomatoes (diced) can be used.
  • 12 ounces dry penne pasta The base of the meal, offering structure; other pasta shapes like fusilli or rigatoni work as alternatives.
  • 24 ounces marinara sauce Adds saucy, herbal flavor; store-bought or homemade can be used based on preference.
  • 2 cups water To cook the pasta; can be substituted with vegetable broth for added flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Enhances the overall taste; fresh minced garlic can be used for a stronger flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Offers herbal notes; Italian seasoning can replace it for a blend of flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt For seasoning; adjust to taste; sea salt can also work.
  • 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper For seasoning; adjust to taste.
For the Creamy Finish
  • 3 cups fresh baby spinach Provides nutrition and color; kale can be used in its place if desired.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Contributes to a creamy texture; substitute with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Adds gooeyness; use other melting cheeses like fontina or provolone.
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves Adds freshness and brightness; dried basil can substitute in a pinch.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Optional garnish for added flavor.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Add the diced yellow onion and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Sauté for 7 to 8 minutes until translucent.
  3. Pour in the dry penne pasta, marinara sauce, water, garlic powder, oregano, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper. Stir to coat.
  4. Increase heat to medium-high, bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10 to 12 minutes until pasta is al dente.
  5. Remove the lid, mix in heavy cream, fresh spinach, and shredded mozzarella. Stir until spinach wilts and cheese melts.
  6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh basil and optional Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 18gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 13gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This dish warms up beautifully, allowing for delicious, comforting lunches or quick dinners that taste like they were just made!

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