Dinner

Cream Cheese Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe

ByRafael Mansero December 20, 2025December 21, 2025

Introduction

This Cream Cheese Pasta Bake is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines roasted cherry tomatoes, creamy cheese, and fresh spinach. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for a cozy weeknight meal.

A white baking dish filled with creamy pasta made of farfalle noodles mixed with wilted green spinach leaves and halved red cherry tomatoes, all coated in a smooth orange sauce. The dish is topped with fresh basil leaves scattered across the surface, adding a bright green color contrast. A wooden spoon rests inside the dish, slightly lifting some of the pasta. The background shows a white marbled texture with two small bowls containing salt and pepper and fresh basil leaves placed around the dish. A striped cloth is partially visible underneath the baking dish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

20 oz. cherry tomatoes (2 pints)
1/2 small white onion, minced
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes
1/4 cup olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp. Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 oz. full-fat cream cheese
2 cups fresh baby spinach, gently torn
8 oz. pasta of choice, cooked
Basil (optional garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Step 2: In an oven-safe casserole dish, combine the cherry tomatoes, minced onion, sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to mix.
Step 3: Nestle the cream cheese in the center of the tomato mixture.
Step 4: Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, until the cream cheese is golden and starting to soften.
Step 5: While the dish bakes, cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain.
Step 6: Remove the casserole from the oven. Using a spoon, break down the tomatoes and stir the cream cheese into the mixture until smooth and saucy.
Step 7: Stir in the torn baby spinach until wilted, then add the cooked pasta. Mix well and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 8: Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For added protein, toss in cooked chicken or sausage before baking.
Replace baby spinach with kale or arugula for a different green flavor.
Use gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free option.
Adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan before serving adds extra richness.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

How to Serve

A white baking dish filled with creamy bowtie pasta layered in a thick orange sauce with visible pieces of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh green spinach leaves mixed throughout. The pasta has a slightly glossy texture, evenly coated with sauce, and is garnished with fresh basil leaves on top. A wooden spoon is placed inside the dish on the right side, partially covered in sauce. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with a gray and white striped cloth on the left, and small bowls of salt and pepper nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cream cheese instead of full-fat?

Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but the sauce may be less rich and creamy.

Is it possible to prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the tomato mixture in advance and bake just before serving. Cook the pasta fresh to avoid it becoming mushy when reheated.

Rafael Mansero