If you are craving a delicious and comforting meal that comes together quickly yet feels indulgent, then this Creamy Penne Rosa Pasta with Spinach and Tomato Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender penne pasta bathed in a luscious tomato cream sauce, with vibrant spinach adding freshness and a beautiful pop of green. Every bite is a perfect balance of creamy richness and garden-fresh flavors, making it an ideal choice for a busy weeknight supper or a cozy dinner that feels special without any fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows multiple small, clear glass bowls filled with different ingredients on a white marbled surface. There is a white bowl filled with bright red tomato sauce on the upper right, a bowl of shredded white cheese below it, and a bowl with yellow penne pasta at the bottom left. To the left is a metal colander full of fresh green spinach leaves. In between, there are small glass bowls filled with chopped green bell peppers, diced white onions, minced garlic, and a mixture of salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and a bay leaf. Around the ingredients, there are loose parsley leaves, two whole red tomatoes with green stems, two dry bay leaves, and a peeled garlic bulb. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

As simple as it may seem, each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture that make this dish so memorable. From the sweetness of fresh vegetables, the heat from red pepper flakes, to the creaminess of cheese and cream, everything harmonizes beautifully.

Penne pasta: The perfect shape to soak up the sauce and hold onto every bit of cream and tomato goodness.
Heavy whipping cream: Adds the rich, velvety texture that turns a simple tomato sauce into a luxurious rosa sauce.
Fresh spinach: Offers freshness and a lovely green color that brightens the dish both visually and taste-wise.
Garlic: Brings aromatic depth that forms the savory backbone of the sauce.
Green bell pepper: Adds a subtle sweetness and crunch that complements the creaminess.
Yellow onion: Provides a mild pungency and sweetness when sautéed just right.
Red pepper flakes: Just the right hint of heat to keep the flavors exciting without overpowering.
Olive oil: The foundation for sautéing aromatics, offering its own fruity richness.
Crushed tomatoes: The heart of the sauce delivering tang and acidity that balances the cream.
Bay leaves: Subtly infuse the sauce with a gentle herbal note as it simmers.
Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for gooey, cheesy pockets within the pasta.
Parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish and a pop of bright green when garnished.
Parmesan cheese: Perfect for grating over the top to enhance flavor with a salty, nutty kick.

How to Make Creamy Penne Rosa Pasta with Spinach and Tomato Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics

Begin by heating olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers invitingly, toss in the chopped onion and green bell pepper. Sauté them for about 3 to 4 minutes until they soften and start sweetening, creating a flavorful base for your sauce.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spice

Next, stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional minute, letting the garlic release its irresistible fragrance and the pepper flakes gently warm the sauce. This quick step infuses the dish with welcoming warmth and depth.

Step 3: Simmer the Tomato Base

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the bay leaves. Mix everything well, cover the pan, and reduce the heat. Let the sauce simmer for 4 to 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to deepen in richness. The bay leaves will lend a delicate herbal undertone during this time.

Step 4: Enrich with Cream and Spinach

Once the tomato base is ready, remove and discard the bay leaves. Stir in the heavy whipping cream, season with salt and pepper to taste, and fold in the fresh spinach. Cover the pan again and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce becomes silken and luscious.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta and Cheese

Finally, add your hot cooked penne directly into the sauce. Toss gently so each piece is generously coated. Sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella cheese and chopped parsley, stirring just enough to melt the cheese into delightful gooeyness. Remove from heat and get ready to serve!

How to Serve Creamy Penne Rosa Pasta with Spinach and Tomato Sauce Recipe

A white bowl filled with creamy orange-red pasta made of penne with visible green spinach leaves mixed throughout; the pasta is covered in a thick sauce and topped with small pieces of fresh green herbs. A silver spoon stands on the right side inside the bowl. In the background, there is a long loaf of bread with a tan crust and a bunch of red tomatoes attached to green stems, placed on a white marbled surface scattered with small bits of dried green herbs. Another white bowl with the same pasta dish is partially visible behind the main bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make your dish even more inviting, top it off with a handful of freshly chopped parsley and a generous grating of parmesan cheese. These fresh toppings add brightness and an extra layer of flavor that elevates the creamy penne rosa pasta experience.

Side Dishes

This pasta is satisfying on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, consider pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or warm, crusty garlic bread for dipping in the sauce. Both options bring contrast in texture and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve the Creamy Penne Rosa Pasta with Spinach and Tomato Sauce Recipe in individual shallow bowls or rustic ceramic dishes. Drizzle a little extra olive oil on top and sprinkle some chili flakes for a pop of color and heat. A sprig of fresh basil or parsley adds a charming final touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. The pasta will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal for busy days without sacrificing flavor.

Freezing

This creamy pasta can be frozen, although the texture of the spinach and cheese may change slightly. To freeze, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and use within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat the pasta slowly on the stovetop over low heat to avoid curdling the cream. Add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Alternatively, use the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to warm evenly.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this Creamy Penne Rosa Pasta with Spinach and Tomato Sauce Recipe?

Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding the sauce, you can easily substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle. Just make sure to adjust cooking times according to the pasta’s package instructions.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly since it uses no meat products. To make it vegan, consider substituting the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative and omit the cheese or use vegan cheese options.

How spicy is the dish?

The red pepper flakes add a mild heat that enhances the overall flavor without overwhelming the palate. You can easily adjust the amount to suit your preferred spice level, or omit it if you prefer no heat at all.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free penne pasta varieties available at most grocery stores. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a great dish for gluten-sensitive individuals.

What wine pairs well with Creamy Penne Rosa Pasta with Spinach and Tomato Sauce Recipe?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc which balance the creaminess and complement the tomato acidity. A light red like Chianti also works great for those who prefer red wine.

Final Thoughts

If you are looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, give this Creamy Penne Rosa Pasta with Spinach and Tomato Sauce Recipe a try. It’s simple to make, full of vibrant flavors, and creamy indulgence that satisfies without overwhelming your schedule. Once you taste it, I promise it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen just as it has in mine.