Introduction
This Slow Cooker Spinach Pasta Primavera proves that slow-cooker meals can be light, fresh, and full of color. Packed with vibrant vegetables and finished with tender spinach and a creamy Parmesan sauce, this dish delivers comfort without feeling heavy. It’s an easy, hands-off way to turn simple pantry ingredients into a bright, veggie-forward dinner your family and friends will keep coming back for.
Ingredients
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8 oz (about 4 cups) uncooked short pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
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3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
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3 cups fresh baby spinach
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1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
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1 cup broccoli florets
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1 cup sliced carrots
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1 cup sliced bell peppers
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1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
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½ cup frozen peas
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2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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½ teaspoon dried basil
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½ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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Pinch of red pepper flakes
Instructions
Step 1: Prep and Layer the Vegetables
Lightly grease a 4–6 quart slow cooker. Add onion, broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, frozen peas, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil or butter, then sprinkle with garlic, Italian seasoning, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Step 2: Add the Pasta
Evenly spread the uncooked pasta over the vegetables.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the broth, heavy cream, and ¾ cup of Parmesan cheese. Pour over the pasta, pressing gently so most of the pasta is submerged.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on Low for 2–3 hours, checking at the 2-hour mark. Stir gently once halfway through. Pasta is ready when tender.
Step 5: Add the Spinach
Fold in the fresh spinach and let it wilt from the heat, about 1 minute. Add a splash of broth if the sauce is too thick.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup Parmesan on top. Let sit on Warm for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Spinach Pasta Primavera is a colorful, creamy, and comforting meal that’s as easy as it is satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or using up extra vegetables, it delivers fresh flavor with minimal effort. Serve it warm and watch everyone come back for seconds!