One-Pan Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta (quick & easy)
When you think of comfort food, pasta usually comes to mind, but what if you could have a creamy, indulgent dish that’s also wholesome, plant-based, and cooked in just one pan? That’s exactly what this One-Pan Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta brings to the table.
Made with just a few simple ingredients juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh spinach, tagliatelle, and velvety oat cream this recipe is super fast, perfect for any day of the week, and absolutely ideal for busy days when you want something delicious without the fuss.
If you’re looking for a slightly different twist, be sure to check out my One-Pot Creamy Spinach Tomato Pasta, another easy, plant-based dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
If you love this recipe, you’ll also enjoy the One-Pot Creamy Pesto Pasta — a rich, herby variation that uses fresh pesto and spinach for a different twist on the same one-pan simplicity.
Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned plant-based pro, this recipe is proof that you don’t need dairy or complicated techniques to enjoy a bowl of pasta that tastes like pure comfort.
Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta
- 100% vegan – Creamy without cream, thanks to oat cream or other plant-based alternatives.
- 30-minute meal – Perfect for busy weeknights.
- One pan only – Less mess, more flavor.
- Packed with veggies – Spinach and tomatoes add nutrients and freshness.
- Versatile & crowd-pleasing – Pairs beautifully with wine, salad, or crusty bread.
How to Make One-Pan Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta
Recipe Variations
Want to switch things up? Try these ideas:
- Gluten-Free Version – Use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
- Extra Veggies – Add zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Protein Boost – Stir in crispy tofu, tempeh, or vegan chicken strips.
- Spicy Kick – Add extra chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- Nut-Based Cream – Try cashew cream for an extra rich flavor.
Storage & Reheating Tips
This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers store well!
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Add a splash of plant milk or broth when reheating on the stovetop or microwave to loosen up the sauce.
- Freezer: Not recommended, as the cream-based sauce may separate.
FAQ about One-Pan Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta
Yes! You can prep the sauce in advance and cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve.
Oat cream has the silkiest finish, but soy cream, almond cream, or homemade cashew cream work beautifully.
Absolutely. Use [400 g / 14 oz] of canned chopped tomatoes for a slightly different texture but equally delicious flavor.
Yes! Just keep an eye on cooking times and adjust liquid if needed.
Final Thoughts on One-Pan Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta
There’s something truly satisfying about creating a complete, comforting meal with just one pan and a handful of ingredients. This One-Pan Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta shows how plant-based cooking can be simple, affordable, and incredibly delicious.
It’s not just a dinner, it’s the kind of recipe that brings people together around the table. With its few ingredients, super fast cooking time, and versatility, it’s a pasta dish that’s perfect for any day of the week and especially ideal for busy days when you still want something homemade and satisfying.
If you’ve been searching for a dish that feels like comfort food but fits seamlessly into a busy lifestyle, this pasta will quickly become a weeknight staple. Cook it once, and it’s guaranteed to earn a permanent spot in your rotation.
👉 For more quick, easy, and flavor-packed vegan recipes, be sure to visit Dr. Vegan and explore the full collection of plant-based meals designed to make everyday cooking fun and stress-free.
One-Pan Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta
Equipment
- Large deep skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Knife and Cutting Board
Ingredients
- 9 oz tagliatelle nests (or spaghetti)
- 10.5 oz cherry tomatoes (red + yellow) halved
- 1 small red onion thinly sliced
- 2 handfuls fresh spinach
- 3 tbsp tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste optional but recommended
- 3 garlic cloves thinly sliced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes optional
- 1 cup plant-based cream like oat cream or heavy cream
- 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth
- 3-4 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Layer the ingredientsIn a large pan, place the pasta nests in the center. Arrange halved cherry tomatoes, sliced onion, garlic, and spinach around. Add dollops of tomato puree and tomato paste (if using) on top of the pasta. Drizzle with olive oil.
- SeasonSprinkle oregano, basil, chili flakes, salt, and pepper over everything.
- Pour liquidsAdd the cream and vegetable broth to the pan so that the pasta is mostly covered.
- Cook coveredPlace a lid on the pan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Let it cook for 11–13 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Uncover & finishRemove the lid, stir well so the pasta absorbs the creamy tomato sauce. Cook 2–3 minutes uncovered if the sauce needs to thicken more.
- ServeGarnish with fresh basil, vegan parmesan (optional), or a drizzle of olive oil.
Holy moly this is SO GOOD. So flavor packed!! Definitely a repeat recipe!
So glad you liked it!!😃
This was delicious, we added chorizo to it at the end and the amount of flavour was incredible!
So glad you enjoyed it! :))
Well, im speechless.. this is the most delicious one pan meal ive ever tried! My whole family love itt! So easy to make and tastes amazing! Cant thank you enough for sharing that recipe!
That makes me really happy to hear Viktoria😊 So glad you and your family loved it. Thanks a lot for trying it out!
Einfach nur… Einfach und lecker 🤩❤️
Freut mich total, dass es dir geschmeckt hat Gila🤩 danke dir fürs Nachkochen!
So much flavor! Hit the spot for dinner tonight!
Glad to hear that Jimmy. Always nice when it hits the spot after a long day!
I tried this one today. Considering it was the first pasta I’ve ever made in my life, I didn’t expect much. BOY WAS I WRONG. It was soooo delicious! Thank you for sharing this masterpiece of a recipe. We couldn’t help but have two servings each. (I’m so glad a video of that recipe popped up on my FYP on Instagram)
That’s amazing, glad you enjoyed it Polina! Sounds like it turned out perfect😊
This was easy and delicious! Well done!
glad you liked the recipe Elle! 🙂