Description

Craving a rich, Italian-inspired dish that’s as comforting as it is easy to prepare? Look no further than Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Pasta! This one-pot meal combines tender penne pasta with a velvety cream sauce, vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and nutty Parmesan, all infused with garlic and Italian herbs. The slow cooker makes it a hands-off recipe, perfect for busy days when you want a gourmet-style dinner with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Penne Pasta (12 oz, uncooked): A sturdy shape that holds up well in the slow cooker.
- Substitution: Rigatoni, fusilli, or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
Heavy Cream (1 cup): Creates the rich, velvety sauce.
- Substitution: Half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative (like coconut cream) for a lighter or vegan option.
Chicken Broth (1 cup): Adds savory depth and helps cook the pasta.
- Substitution: Vegetable broth for vegetarian or water with a bouillon cube.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes (1 cup, chopped): Brings sweet, tangy intensity.
- Substitution: Fresh cherry tomatoes (halved) or ½ cup tomato paste for a different flavor.
Fresh Spinach (2 cups): Adds vibrant color and nutrition.
- Substitution: Kale, arugula, or frozen spinach (thawed and drained).
Grated Parmesan Cheese (1 cup): Provides nutty, salty richness.
- Substitution: Pecorino Romano, Grana Padano, or a vegan Parmesan alternative.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic depth.
- Substitution: ½ tsp garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
Italian Seasoning (1 tsp): A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme for Mediterranean flair.
- Substitution: ½ tsp dried oregano + ½ tsp dried basil or fresh herbs (1 tbsp total).
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Enhances all the flavors.
- Substitution: Sea salt or low-sodium options for dietary needs.
Fresh Basil (for garnish): Adds a fresh, aromatic finish.
- Substitution: Parsley, chives, or no garnish.

Why They’re Important: The pasta is the hearty base, heavy cream and Parmesan create the creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes and garlic add bold flavor, and spinach brings freshness. Basil elevates the dish with a vibrant, Italian touch.

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Step 1: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

In the slow cooker, add 1 cup heavy cream, 1 cup chicken broth, 1 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of pepper. Stir to combine.
Add 12 oz uncooked penne pasta and stir to ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid.
- Tip: If using sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drain or rinse them to reduce oiliness, or use the oil as part of the dish for extra flavor.

Step 2: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid. Check at 2 hours to avoid overcooking, as pasta can become mushy.
Stir once or twice during cooking if possible to prevent sticking, but avoid lifting the lid too often.
- Tip: If the pasta looks dry, add an extra ¼ cup broth or water and stir gently.

Step 3: Add Spinach and Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in 2 cups fresh spinach and 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into a creamy sauce, about 2-3 minutes.
Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning if needed.
- Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or cream; if too thin, cook uncovered on high for 5-10 minutes.

Step 4: Serve

Spoon the creamy pasta into bowls or onto plates, ensuring a good mix of pasta, sauce, and veggies.
Garnish with chopped fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.
- Tip: For a restaurant-style finish, sprinkle with extra Parmesan or a pinch of red pepper flakes.