One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Pasta

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 recipe has become a favorite in our household for busy weeknights when we crave rich taste without hours in the kitchen.

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

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This dish always brings the family together especially when shared with warm crusty bread and a glass of wine.

Substitutions

Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for gluten intolerances Substitute half and half for heavy cream for a lighter dish

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp Pinot Grigio or a light-bodied red wine Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 3 days Reheat gently adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess

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This creamy Tuscan pasta is a perfect balance of flavor and simplicity ideal for any night of the week.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of pasta works best?

Fettuccine or penne are ideal as they absorb the creamy sauce well and cook evenly in one pot.

→ Can I substitute dairy ingredients?

For a lighter variation, half-and-half can replace heavy cream, and plant-based alternatives may be used with adjusted cooking times.

→ How do sun-dried tomatoes affect the flavor?

They add a rich, tangy depth that complements the garlic and herbs, enhancing the overall taste profile.

→ Is it possible to add protein?

Yes, cooked chicken, shrimp, or white beans can be added for extra protein without altering the dish's balance.

→ What herbs are included in the seasoning?

A mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme, along with fresh basil and parsley, brings aromatic layers to the sauce.