Storage Options
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Freezing is possible, though the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly upon thawing.
Summary
Tuscan Pasta is a creamy, flavor-packed dish featuring sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, garlic, and seasoned chicken or sausage in a Parmesan cream sauce. It’s a comforting, restaurant-worthy meal that’s easy to make at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe for its bold flavor, creamy texture, and one-skillet convenience. It’s customizable, satisfying, and perfect for everything from family dinners to date nights. Plus, it tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
Large skillet or sauté pan
Large pot for boiling pasta
Colander
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Tips for Success
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth sauce
Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente texture holds up better in the cream sauce
Sauté garlic gently to avoid burning and bitterness
Add spinach last to keep it vibrant and not overcooked
Ingredients
12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 8 oz Italian sausage), sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), drained and sliced
2 cups baby spinach
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Directions
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente, drain, and set aside
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat
Add chicken or sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6–8 minutes
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant
Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan
Bring to a gentle simmer, then add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted
Mix in sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, cooking until spinach is wilted
Add cooked pasta and Italian seasoning, tossing to coat
Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using
Simmer for 2–3 minutes to let flavors blend, then serve warm
Additional Tips or Variations
Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood version
Add mushrooms or roasted red peppers for more depth
Make it vegetarian by omitting meat and adding more veggies
Swap heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Calories: 520
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 28g
Sodium: 480mg
Fiber: 3g
*Based on a serving size of 1 ½ cups
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it up to 2 days in advance. Store in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. Add a bit of flour or cheese to help thicken it.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, just thaw and drain it well before adding to the sauce to avoid excess water.
Conclusion
Tuscan Pasta is the perfect mix of creamy, savory, and comforting—easy enough for a weeknight but special enough to impress guests. With sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, spinach, and Parmesan, every bite delivers bold flavor and satisfying texture. Try this recipe once, and it’s sure to become a regular on your dinner menu.