1-Step 1: Prepare Ingredients and Cook Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ½ pound penne pasta until tender, about 7-10 minutes. Drain and set aside. While the pasta cooks, dice the yellow onion and mince the 2 cloves garlic. This mise en place keeps you moving smoothly.

2-Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion softens and turns translucent, 3-5 minutes. This builds the aromatic base for your garlic parmesan spinach pasta.

3-Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings Stir in the 14.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes with their juices, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon dried basil, 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Mix well to combine flavors.

4-Step 4: Incorporate Tomato Paste and Water Add 2 tablespoons tomato paste and ½ cup water, stirring until fully incorporated. This thickens the base for your tomato spinach pasta.

5-Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce Reduce heat to low. Add the 2 ounces cream cheese in pieces and whisk until smooth and creamy. Stir in ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, forming a rich, velvety coating.

6-Step 6: Wilt the Spinach Add 4 ounces fresh spinach and stir until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. The greens soften quickly, infusing the sauce with color and nutrients.

7-Step 7: Combine and Serve Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Coat everything evenly, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm for the best creamy tomato and spinach pasta recipe experience.