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 creamy Tuscan garlic herb pasta quickly became a family favorite because of its rich flavor and easy preparation in just one pot.

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

Toast bread, bagels, and sourdough evenly for breakfast, sandwiches, and quick meal prep.

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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

Toast bread, bagels, and sourdough evenly for breakfast, sandwiches, and quick meal prep.

Check price on Amazon

Toast bread, bagels, and sourdough evenly for breakfast, sandwiches, and quick meal prep.

Check price on Amazon

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This recipe always brings my family together around the table for a warm comforting meal and happy memories.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for protein or substitute gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this pasta with a crisp Pinot Grigio or a light-bodied red wine to enhance the flavors.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

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Prep meals effortlessly by chopping vegetables, slicing meats, and serving dinner with the right knife always ready.

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A wonderfully creamy and flavorful meal that delivers on taste and ease in under 30 minutes.

Recipe Q&A

→ What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Fettuccine or penne are ideal as they hold the creamy sauce well, but other similar shapes can be used.

→ Can I substitute the dairy ingredients?

For a lighter version, half-and-half can replace heavy cream, and non-dairy milk alternatives may be tried, though the texture will differ slightly.

→ How do I ensure the pasta cooks evenly in one pot?

Use steady medium-low heat and stir frequently so the pasta absorbs liquid gradually and cooks to al dente while developing a creamy sauce.

→ Are there optional additions for more protein?

Cooked chicken, shrimp, or white beans can be folded in after cooking to enhance nutritional value and flavor.

→ What fresh herbs are recommended for optimal flavor?

Fresh basil and parsley are stirred in at the end to brighten the dish and complement the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.