Description
Craving a rich, restaurant-style pasta dish that’s packed with Italian flavors but requires minimal effort? Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Pasta is your dream come true! This indulgent dish combines tender penne pasta with a creamy, garlicky sauce, vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and nutty Parmesan, all effortlessly cooked in a slow cooker.
Ingredients
- Penne Pasta (12 oz, uncooked):
- Why it’s important: A sturdy pasta that holds up to slow cooking and absorbs the creamy sauce.
- Substitutions: Rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle. Use gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup):
- Why it’s important: Creates the rich, velvety base of the sauce.
- Substitutions: Half-and-half for a lighter option, or full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free (may alter flavor slightly).
- Chicken Broth (1 cup):
- Why it’s important: Adds savory depth and helps cook the pasta.
- Substitutions: Vegetable broth for vegetarian, or water with a bouillon cube.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes (1 cup, chopped):
- Why it’s important: Brings tangy, sweet intensity that defines Tuscan flavors.
- Substitutions: Roasted red peppers or fresh cherry tomatoes (add fresh tomatoes in the last 30 minutes).
- Fresh Spinach (2 cups):
- Why it’s important: Adds vibrant color, nutrition, and a mild earthy flavor.
- Substitutions: Baby kale, arugula, or frozen spinach (thawed and drained).
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (1 cup):
- Why it’s important: Provides nutty, salty richness that thickens the sauce.
- Substitutions: Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or nutritional yeast for vegan.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced):
- Why it’s important: Infuses the sauce with warm, aromatic depth.
- Substitutions: ½ tsp garlic powder or 1 tsp garlic paste.
- Italian Seasoning (1 tsp):
- Why it’s important: Adds a blend of herbaceous flavors like oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Substitutions: A mix of dried oregano and basil, or fresh herbs (1 tbsp, finely chopped).
- Salt and Pepper (to taste):
- Why it’s important: Enhances the flavors of the sauce and pasta.
- Fresh Basil (for garnish):
- Why it’s important: Adds a fresh, aromatic finish and vibrant color.
- Substitutions: Fresh parsley, oregano, or omit.
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Instructions
Step 1: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
- In the slow cooker, combine 1 cup heavy cream, 1 cup chicken broth, 1 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Stir to mix the liquids and seasonings evenly.
- Tip: Lightly grease the slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Add the Pasta
- Add 12 oz uncooked penne pasta to the slow cooker.
- Stir well to ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid mixture.
- Tip: Press the pasta down gently with a spoon to coat it evenly and avoid clumps.
Step 3: Cook
- Cover and cook on low for 2–3 hours, stirring halfway through if possible, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Check at 2 hours to avoid overcooking, as slow cookers vary and pasta can become mushy.
- Tip: If the pasta is done but there’s excess liquid, remove the lid and cook on high for 10–15 minutes to reduce.
Step 4: Add Spinach and Cheese
- Stir in 2 cups fresh spinach and 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
- Mix until the spinach wilts (1–2 minutes) and the cheese melts into a creamy sauce.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or cream; if too thin, add more Parmesan or cook uncovered briefly.
Step 5: Serve
- Spoon the creamy Tuscan pasta into bowls or plates.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves or chopped basil for a vibrant finish.
- Serve hot, ideally with a side of garlic bread or a light salad.
- Tip: Serve immediately for the creamiest texture and freshest flavors.
