After a long week, nothing beats a meal that feels like a comforting hug—rich, creamy, and packed with fresh flavors. That’s exactly what I found in this Quorn Fillets with Creamy Spinach and Tomato Penne. The way tender Quorn fillets soak up the luscious spinach cream sauce, mingling effortlessly with juicy tomatoes and perfectly cooked penne, makes every bite a delight. Whether you’re craving a healthy yet indulgent dinner or hoping to impress guests with something quick and vibrant, this dish hits all the marks. It’s hearty enough to satisfy your appetite but light enough to leave you feeling great. Plus, it’s a fantastic alternative for anyone tired of the usual fast-food routine, bringing homemade charm right to your table in under 30 minutes!
Why choose Quorn Fillets with Creamy Spinach and Tomato Penne?
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights. Fresh Flavors: The creamy spinach paired with juicy tomatoes creates a vibrant, mouthwatering sauce. Healthy Comfort: A light yet satisfying meal that feels indulgent without the guilt. Versatile Appeal: Ideal for vegetarians and anyone craving something beyond fast food. Crowd-Pleaser: Elegant enough for guests but simple enough for everyday cooking.
Quorn Fillets with Creamy Spinach and Tomato Penne Ingredients
For the Quorn Fillets and Sauce
- Quorn fillets – tender and protein-packed, they soak up the creamy spinach sauce beautifully.
- Fresh spinach – adds vibrant color and a mild, earthy flavor to the creamy base.
- Cherry tomatoes – burstingly juicy, they bring natural sweetness and a pop of freshness.
- Garlic cloves – essential for that aromatic depth; finely minced to infuse without overpowering.
- Onion – softens into sweetness, forming the foundation of the sauce’s flavor.
- Cream (or plant-based alternative) – the heart of the sauce, giving it that luscious, comforting texture.
- Olive oil – for sautéing, adding a fruity richness that complements the vegetables.
- Salt and pepper – simple seasoning to balance and enhance every ingredient.
For the Pasta
- Penne pasta – perfectly holds the creamy sauce in its tubes, making each bite satisfying.
- Water and salt – for boiling the penne until al dente, providing ideal texture.
Extras and Garnishes
- Parmesan cheese (optional) – a sprinkle on top brings a salty, nutty finish.
- Fresh basil or parsley – brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes just before serving.
This selection of ingredients sets up the star of your meal perfectly—Quorn Fillets with Creamy Spinach and Tomato Penne, a deliciously homemade escape from everyday fast food.
How to Make Quorn Spinach Tomato Penne
For the Pasta:
- Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add penne and cook al dente, about 9 minutes.
- Drain Pasta: Drain the pasta in a colander, reserving ¼ cup of the starchy cooking water. Return penne to the pot to keep warm.
For the Sauce and Fillets:
- Heat Oil: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers, about 1 minute.
- Sauté Veggies: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the hot oil, stirring for 3–4 minutes until softened and lightly golden and fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes & Spinach: Stir in halved cherry tomatoes, cooking until they burst and release their juices. Add fresh spinach, wilting it gently in 1–2 minutes.
- Add Cream & Quorn: Pour in cream and stir to combine. Gently fold in Quorn Fillets with Creamy Spinach and Tomato Penne, simmering 3–4 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Season & Toss: Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, then add cooked penne. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water to achieve a silky, glossy sauce.
Optional: Finish with a crack of black pepper and extra basil leaves.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Quorn Fillets with Creamy Spinach and Tomato Penne
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove for the best texture.
Freezer: If freezing, portion the dish into individual containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months; defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the Quorn Fillets with Creamy Spinach and Tomato Penne on low heat, adding a splash of cream or water if needed to restore creaminess.
Airtight Storage: Keep the dish covered tightly or transfer to a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn and maintain flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These Quorn Fillets with Creamy Spinach and Tomato Penne are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the onions, garlic, and halved cherry tomatoes up to 24 hours in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator to save time during the cooking process. Additionally, you can cook the penne pasta and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the olive oil, sauté the prepped vegetables, add the spinach, and finish the dish with the cream and Quorn. This approach keeps the flavors fresh and ensures that your meal is just as delicious as if you made it from scratch on the same day!
Expert Tips for Quorn Fillets with Creamy Spinach and Tomato Penne
- Choose Quality Quorn: Pick fresh Quorn fillets for the best texture and flavor; frozen ones can become watery when cooked.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Aim for al dente penne to keep a pleasant bite and avoid mushiness when tossed in the creamy sauce.
- Slowly Wilt Spinach: Add spinach gradually and cook briefly to maintain its vibrant color and prevent a watery sauce.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Use the starchy pasta water to adjust sauce consistency—this helps bind the sauce beautifully to the penne.
- Balance Seasonings: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper carefully, as the cream and parmesan may add extra saltiness.
- Gentle Simmer for Sauce: Keep the sauce on low heat when adding cream and Quorn to avoid curdling and retain that luscious texture.
Quorn Fillets with Creamy Spinach and Tomato Penne Variations
Feel free to play around with this dish, elevating it with your favorite ingredients and personal tastes!
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Vegan: Substitute cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a rich and creamy texture that’s entirely plant-based.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne and ensure the Quorn fillets or any stock added is gluten-free for a delicious alternative.
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Add Heat: Spice things up with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha in the sauce for a delightful kick.
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Extra Veggies: Toss in some zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and a colorful medley of flavors.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or dill; adding them at the end brightens the dish and enhances freshness.
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Cheesy Twist: For an indulgent finish, mix in some cream cheese or ricotta into the sauce for an extra layer of creaminess and flavor.
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Nutty Flavor: Toasted pine nuts or walnuts sprinkled on top add a crunchy texture and a delicious nutty undertone to the dish.
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Pasta Variety: Swap out penne for other pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle to change up the texture and presentation, keeping it fun!
What to Serve with Quorn Fillets with Creamy Spinach and Tomato Penne?
Embrace the warmth of a homemade meal by adding delightful sides that complement your creamy delight.
- Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery treat, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce and adding a delicious depth to your meal.
- Mixed Green Salad: Crisp, fresh greens with a light vinaigrette balance the richness of the penne, refreshing every bite.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers add a sweet, caramelized flavor that works beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Parmesan Crisps: These crispy, cheesy bites can enhance the umami flavors while adding a satisfying crunch alongside the penne.
- Herb-Infused Couscous: Light and fluffy, this dish provides a subtle herbal note that pairs beautifully with the spinach and tomato, elevating the meal.
- White Wine Spritzer: A chilled spritzer with refreshing citrus notes complements the creaminess, offering a vibrant sip to accompany each forkful.
- Chocolate Mousse: End the evening on a sweet note with a rich, airy dessert that contrasts beautifully with your savory main dish.
- Lemon Sorbet: A light and zesty finish, this sorbet cleanses the palate after the creamy, indulgent penne, making it a perfect refreshing treat.
Quorn Fillets with Creamy Spinach and Tomato Penne Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best Quorn fillets for this recipe?
Look for fresh Quorn fillets rather than frozen for the best texture and flavor. Fresh ones have a firmer bite and absorb the creamy spinach sauce beautifully. Avoid fillets with dark spots all over or an off smell, as these are signs of spoilage.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover Quorn Fillets with Creamy Spinach and Tomato Penne in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the creamy sauce fresh and the pasta from drying out. When reheating, do so gently and add a splash of water or cream to revive the sauce’s silky texture.
Can I freeze the dish, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! Portion the cooled dish into freezer-safe containers and seal tightly to avoid freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a little cream or water if needed to bring back that creamy consistency.
What if my sauce is too thick or watery?
If the sauce is too thick after adding cream and Quorn, stir in reserved pasta cooking water a tablespoon at a time until you reach a silky, smooth texture. If it’s watery, simmer gently on low heat to reduce until it coats the penne perfectly—just watch carefully to avoid curdling.
Is this recipe suitable for someone with dairy allergies or vegan diets?
Very much! You can substitute the cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or oat cream, which works wonderfully to keep that rich, creamy feel. Just ensure your Quorn fillets are vegan-certified if following a strict vegan diet, as some varieties may contain egg whites or dairy.
Easy Creamy Quorn Fillets with Spinach Tomato Penne Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add penne and cook al dente, about 9 minutes.
- Drain the pasta in a colander, reserving ¼ cup of the starchy cooking water. Return penne to the pot to keep warm.
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers, about 1 minute.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the hot oil, stirring for 3–4 minutes until softened and lightly golden.
- Stir in halved cherry tomatoes, cooking until they burst and release their juices. Add fresh spinach, wilting it gently in 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in cream and stir to combine. Gently fold in Quorn fillets, simmering 3–4 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, then add cooked penne. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water for creaminess.
