Creamy Tuscan Pasta: Quick & Easy Weeknight Wonder

Weeknights can be hectic, but dinner doesn’t have to be. Say hello to your new kitchen BFF: One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Pasta. This Italian-inspired masterpiece isn’t just a meal; it’s a one-pot wonder that’ll have you saying “Mangia!” with a grin. Imagine tender penne bathing in a rich, creamy sauce, infused with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. And did we mention minimal cleanup? We know, it’s a dream come true. Get ready to embrace your inner chef and whip up this dish that’s bound to become a family favorite.

Key Takeaways

• One-pot magic: Less time washing dishes, more time enjoying the good stuff.
• Flavor-packed: Sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and Parmesan bring it all together.
• Quick and easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
• Family-approved: Kids, adults, picky eaters—everyone’s coming back for seconds.

Photo bySam Miller

Ingredients You'll Need

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 shallot, minced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup whole milk (or more if you like it extra creamy)
• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil, julienne-style, drained
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup fresh baby spinach
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian parsley

Directions: Let's Get Cooking!

Step 1: Butter Up!

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced shallot and garlic, and let them mingle for 3-4 minutes until the shallot softens and the garlic fills your kitchen with that irresistible aroma.

Step 2: Flavor Bomb

Stir in the tomato paste, dried oregano, and paprika. Cook for about 2 minutes, or until the tomato paste gets a bit darker and you start to feel like a culinary genius. This is where the magic happens.

Step 3: Pasta Party

Pour in the chicken broth and milk, then add the penne, cherry tomatoes, and sun-dried tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Stir occasionally for 18-20 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente—firm but not too firm, just the way we like it.

Step 4: Spinach & Cheese, Please!

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the fresh baby spinach and grated Parmesan. The spinach will wilt beautifully, and the cheese will melt into the sauce, creating a creamy, dreamy dish. If the sauce is too thick, just add a little more milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Garnish and Devour

Garnish with chopped fresh Italian parsley. Serve it up hot, and watch as your family dives in. Seconds? Absolutely.

Photo bySam Miller

Side Dish Ideas

This pasta is a star, but every star needs a good supporting act. Try pairing it with:

• Garlic Bread: Because more carbs are always a good idea.
• Simple Green Salad: A light vinaigrette and some crunchy veggies will balance out the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers—anything to add a bit of color and crunch to your plate.

Nutritional Facts

Each serving of this one-pot wonder comes in at:

• Calories: 324
• Fat: 13g
• Carbs: 43g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 15g
• Protein: 15g

Who knew something so delicious could be so balanced?

Prep & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Photo bySam Miller

Conclusion: Your New Weeknight Go-To

And there you have it—One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Pasta. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s ridiculously tasty. This dish is proof that weeknight dinners don’t have to be boring or stressful. So go ahead, make this pasta, and bask in the glory of your kitchen skills. Bon appétit!