Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta

Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta is one of my go-to pasta dishes when I want something quick, hearty, and satisfying. It combines the sweetness of fresh cherry tomatoes, the freshness of spinach, and the richness of a creamy cheese sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy nights but still feels special enough for a weekend treat.

By: Vanjo Merano Leave a Comment Published: 8/11/25

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There are days when I’m craving pasta but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s when this dish comes to the rescue. I love how everything comes together in one pan — less cleanup, more flavor. The way the pasta absorbs the vegetable broth while cooking makes the sauce even more flavorful, and that touch of chili flakes gives just the right amount of kick.

What is Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta?

For me, Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta is comfort in a bowl. It’s a beautiful mix of linguine, ripe cherry tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a creamy sauce made with All-Purpose Cream, ricotta, and Parmesan cheese. I’ve been making this for years, and every time I do, I’m reminded that the simplest dishes can be the most satisfying. The vegetable broth not only cooks the pasta but also infuses it with flavor, so every bite is delicious even before the sauce is added.

Ingredients for Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta

Linguine – a classic long pasta that holds the sauce well
Extra virgin olive oil – gives a rich aroma and helps bring out the flavors of the aromatics
Garlic – I always add plenty because it’s the foundation of great flavor
Onion – adds sweetness and balances the creaminess of the sauce
Cherry tomatoes – their natural sweetness bursts through with every bite
Spinach – fresh greens that add color, texture, and nutrition
Red chili flakes – just enough to add a warm, gentle spice
Nestlé All-Purpose Cream – my go-to for that smooth, velvety pasta sauce
Vegetable broth – keeps the pasta flavorful from the inside out
Ricotta cheese – creamy and slightly tangy, it works so well in this dish
Parmesan cheese – for that salty, nutty finish

How to Cook Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta in 6 Steps

Sauté the aromatics
Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add garlic, onion, and red chili flakes. Sauté until fragrant — I love the smell at this stage, it already feels like comfort food is on the way.
Add the tomatoes
Toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook until they soften and release their juices. This is where the sauce starts to build its flavor naturally.
Cook the pasta in broth
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. Add the linguine, cover, and let it cook until al dente. Cooking pasta directly in the broth makes it so much more flavorful than boiling in plain water.
Add the greens
Stir in the spinach and let it wilt gently. Fresh spinach cooks quickly, so this step only takes a minute.
Make it creamy
Lower the heat and add Nestlé All-Purpose Cream, ricotta cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Toss the pasta until everything is coated in a silky, creamy sauce.
Serve and enjoy
Transfer to a serving plate. I like adding extra Parmesan on top before serving — it makes it even more irresistible.

Best Ways to Enjoy Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta

I usually enjoy this pasta with warm garlic bread and a simple green salad. Sometimes, I’ll make it for lunch and pair it with sweet tea. It’s light enough for daytime but still filling enough to keep you satisfied until dinner.

Tips for Cooking Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta

Use fresh cherry tomatoes whenever possible — they make a big difference in flavor.
Don’t overcook the spinach; it should stay bright green and fresh-tasting.
If you want the sauce thinner, add a splash of the pasta cooking broth before serving.
Taste and adjust the seasoning after adding the cheeses, as Parmesan can be quite salty.

What Makes This Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta Stand Out

What I really love about this dish is how the pasta absorbs all the flavor from the vegetable broth before it even meets the cream and cheese. Most creamy pasta recipes cook the pasta separately, but here, the broth does double duty — cooking the pasta and seasoning it at the same time. Add the fresh tomatoes and spinach, and you get a creamy pasta that doesn’t feel too heavy.

What to Have with Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta

Garlic Bread – crusty bread with a buttery garlic spread, perfect for soaking up the creamy pasta sauce
Caesar Salad – crisp romaine lettuce with creamy Caesar dressing for a refreshing side
Broccoli and Bacon Salad – Crunchy broccoli tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing with smoky bacon, cashews, and cheese.
Roasted Cauliflower – roasted until tender and flavorful

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne will work. Just adjust the cooking time.

Can I skip the chili flakes?

Yes, if you prefer a completely mild pasta, leave them out.

What can I use instead of ricotta?

Cottage cheese or cream cheese will work as substitutes.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk.

Every time I make this Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta, I’m reminded how a simple recipe can turn an ordinary day into something special. Give it a try — I’m sure it will be a favorite at your table too.

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