Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

Ever craved a comforting pasta dish that’s both incredibly easy and bursting with flavor? This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta recipe is your answer! Imagine silky pasta, a rich tomato sauce, and a creamy finish, all cooked in one pot for minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights or a quick, satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Tomato Pasta

• Effortless Cleanup: Only one pot to wash!
• Ready in Under 30 Minutes: From pantry to plate in a flash.
• Rich and Creamy Texture: A decadent and satisfying experience.
• Bold Tomato Flavor: A classic taste that everyone loves.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable to your preferences.
• Comfort Food Perfection: A warm and cozy meal.
• Simple Enough for Beginners: A great recipe to start with.

Imagine the aroma of basil and oregano filling your kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Plus, this recipe is less fussy than traditional pasta dishes, making it a weeknight winner!

Ingredients Needed for Creamy Tomato Pasta

• Penne Pasta: 12 oz (340g). Use your favorite shape, but penne works well.
• Olive Oil: 1 tbsp (15ml). Extra virgin olive oil adds a richer flavor.
• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped (approx. 1 cup). Yellow or white onion will work.
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. Freshly minced garlic is essential for the best flavor.
• Crushed Tomatoes: 1 can (28 oz/794g). Look for good-quality crushed tomatoes.
• Vegetable Broth: 2 cups (473ml). Adds depth and flavor to the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup (118ml). Creates the signature creamy texture.
• Dried Basil: 1 tsp (2g). Toasting spices lightly will unlock their flavor.
• Dried Oregano: 1 tsp (2g). Essential for that classic Italian taste.
• Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 tsp (optional). Add a little heat if you like.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Season generously to bring out the flavors.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup (50g). Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts best.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: For garnish. Find fresh herbs at your local farmers’ market for best quality.

For spices, consider toasting them lightly in a dry pan for a minute or two before adding them to the sauce. This enhances their aroma and flavor.

Essential Equipment List

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: For cooking everything in one go. A heavy-bottomed pot helps distribute heat evenly.
• Wooden Spoon: For stirring and preventing the pasta from sticking.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the best results.
• Grater: For grating the Parmesan cheese. Freshly grated is always better!
• Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping the onion and garlic. A sharp knife makes the task easier and safer.

A 10-inch skillet ensures even cooking, and if you don’t have a rolling pin, use a bottle.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy

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Scale up for a crowd or halve for solo dining – this recipe is easily adaptable!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Tomato Pasta

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and creamy tomato pasta dish in just one pot!

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!

Step 2: Build the Sauce

1. Pour in crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth, then stir to combine.
2. Add dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to incorporate all the spices.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. Add the penne pasta to the pot, making sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Creamy Finish

1. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until well combined and creamy.
2. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove from heat and let sit for 2 minutes to thicken slightly.
2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Too thick? Thin with a little extra vegetable broth. Remember, resting the pasta allows the sauce to cling better, resulting in a richer flavor!

CHECK OUT: Tasty Roasted Vegetable Pasta Recipe – Add depth with roasted vegetables.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente to avoid mushy pasta.
• Stir Regularly: Prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to your liking.
• Use Good-Quality Tomatoes: The quality of the tomatoes greatly impacts the flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the pasta to sit for a couple of minutes helps the sauce thicken and cling to the pasta.

Deglaze the pot after sautéing the aromatics for extra depth. Beginners, pre-measure everything for a smoother cooking experience.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegan Option: Use cashew cream or coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
• Add Vegetables: Stir in chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Spice it Up: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Different Cheese: Use mozzarella or ricotta cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne pasta.

Go creamy with cashew sauce for a dairy-free alternative. Use rice flour for a gluten-free option.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

This creamy tomato pasta is delicious on its own, but it’s even better with a few simple sides:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad provides a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli or asparagus add a healthy and flavorful element.
• Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: Add protein for a more substantial meal.

Pair it with refreshing mint lemonade to cut the richness, making it a perfect fall feast stunner.

Health Benefits

• Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which is linked to reduced risk of certain cancers.
• Vegetables: Provides essential vitamins and minerals.
• Fiber: From the pasta, which aids digestion.
• Protein: From the Parmesan cheese and optional additions like chicken or shrimp.

One serving is packed with fiber for digestion and protein to fuel you!

Storage & Reheating

This pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of vegetable broth or water if the pasta seems dry.
• Freezing: While not ideal, you can freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The texture may change slightly.

Cool fully before sealing to prevent spoilage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Avoid Soggy Results?

Be careful not to overcook the pasta. Cook it until it’s al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the sauce. Also, avoid adding too much liquid.

Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?

Yes, you can use other types of pasta such as rotini, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I Add Meat to This Recipe?

Absolutely! Cooked ground turkey, beef, or shredded chicken would be great additions. Add them after the sauce has simmered for a few minutes.

Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian! To make it vegan, simply substitute the heavy cream with plant-based cream and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.

How Can I Make the Sauce More Flavorful?

Roast the garlic cloves before mincing them for a deeper, sweeter flavor. Add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. You can also add a tablespoon of tomato paste for a richer tomato flavor.

Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: Approximately 450
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Protein: 15g

Exact stats need a nutrition calculator. Remember that Carbs: 60g from wholesome grains.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more easy and delicious recipes? Try these gems!

• Best Roasted Tomatoes with Burrata – A simple yet elegant appetizer.
• Creamy Vegan Tomato White Bean Stew – A hearty and flavorful vegan stew.
• Garlic Roasted Chickpea and Tomato Pasta – A vegetarian dish that combines the flavors of garlic, roasted tomatoes, and chickpeas.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Best Roasted Tomatoes with Burrata – A zesty twist for spice lovers.

Conclusion

This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is fast, flavorful, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a comforting meal on the table in under 30 minutes.

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