20-Minute Creamy Tomato Basil Penne with Spinach
Indulge in a delightful 20-Minute Creamy Tomato Basil Penne with Spinach that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dish. The richness of cream melds beautifully with ripe tomatoes and fresh basil, while tender spinach adds a nutritious touch. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this easy recipe is sure to impress your family and friends, leaving them asking for seconds.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 14 oz canned diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot and add salt. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, wash and chop the spinach.
- In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add canned diced tomatoes and heavy cream; stir well and simmer for about five minutes.
- Stir in chopped spinach until wilted (about two minutes).
- Drain cooked penne and combine it with the sauce in the skillet. Toss until evenly coated.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and extra basil if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added protein, consider incorporating grilled chicken or shrimp. Swap out penne for gluten-free pasta if needed. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.