When it comes to quick, delicious, and hassle-free dinners, nothing beats a one-pot meal. One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Pasta is the perfect comfort food—rich, garlicky, and packed with flavors from sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, parmesan cheese, and an indulgent creamy garlic sauce. Whether you’re making this for a busy weeknight or an elegant dinner, this recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Pasta

✅ Minimal Cleanup – Everything cooks in a single pot, saving you time and effort.
✅ Rich & Creamy – The perfect balance of garlic, parmesan, and cream creates an indulgent sauce.
✅ Customizable – Works with chicken, shrimp, or vegetarian variations.
✅ Kid-Friendly – A family-approved meal that’s both comforting and nutritious.

Ingredients Needed for the Perfect Tuscan Pasta

Essential Ingredients

Pasta: (penne, fettuccine, or rotini)
Olive oil: For sautéing
Garlic: (Minced for an aromatic base)
Sun-dried tomatoes: (Chopped for a sweet, tangy flavor)
Spinach: (Fresh for a pop of color and nutrients)
Heavy cream & chicken broth: (For a luscious, creamy texture)
Parmesan cheese: (Grated for extra creaminess)
Italian seasoning: (A blend of basil, oregano, and thyme)
Salt & pepper: (To taste)

Optional Additions for More Flavor

Protein options: Chicken, shrimp, or sausage
Extra vegetables: Mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or zucchini
Red pepper flakes: For a bit of heat

Ingredient Substitutions

Dairy-free version: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream.
Low-calorie option: Use half-and-half or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
Gluten-free: Choose gluten-free pasta options.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Pasta

Step 1: Cooking the Protein (Optional)

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
If using chicken, shrimp, or sausage, cook until browned, then remove and set aside.

Step 2: Building the Flavor Base

In the same pot, sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well.

Step 3: Cooking the Pasta & Final Touches

Stir in uncooked pasta and let it cook until tender.
Add spinach and parmesan cheese, stirring until combined.
Return the cooked protein (if using) to the pot.
Let the sauce thicken for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips & Variations for the Best Tuscan Pasta

Making it Healthier

Swap out white pasta for whole wheat or chickpea pasta.
Use light cream or a Greek yogurt-based sauce instead of heavy cream.

Adding More Flavor

Increase garlic or add red pepper flakes for a bold kick.
Mix in fresh basil, oregano, or thyme for extra aroma.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth to retain creaminess.

Serving Suggestions & FAQs

Best Side Dishes to Pair With Tuscan Pasta

🥖 Garlic Bread – The perfect crispy side to scoop up the creamy sauce.
🥗 Caesar Salad – A fresh, crunchy contrast to the rich pasta.
🥦 Roasted Vegetables – Adds a healthy touch to your meal.

One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Pasta with garlic parmesan sauce, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, served in a bowl.

A Flavorful, Easy, and Comforting Meal

Print Recipe

This One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender pasta, vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a luscious creamy sauce infused with garlic and parmesan cheese. Made in just one pot, it’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners. Topped with fresh basil and a sprinkle of parmesan, this dish is a flavorful and satisfying treat that will transport your taste buds to Tuscany.

Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well)
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

- Cook the Pasta:
  In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Broth and Pasta:
  Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
- Incorporate Cream and Veggies:
  Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the sauce begins to thicken.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning:
  Stir in the grated parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Serve:
  Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
Customization: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms for extra protein and flavor.

Author: Aida
Prep Time: 10
Cook Time: 20

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 poepel
Calories: 550
Protein: 18g

FAQs

❓ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! However, add fresh spinach before serving to maintain its color and texture.

❓ How do I prevent the sauce from drying out?
Reheat with extra chicken broth or milk to restore creaminess.

❓ Can I freeze it?
Not recommended due to the dairy content, which may separate upon thawing.

Final Thoughts & Recipe Recap

One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Pasta is the ultimate comfort dish that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that’s both delicious and satisfying.