One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

Name: One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Short pasta (penne or fusilli); Canned diced tomatoes; Heavy cream (or half-and-half); Fresh basil; Garlic; Vegetable or chicken broth; Olive oil; Salt and pepper

Recipe By:

Ava Mack

Posted:

February 15, 2025

Updated:

February 15, 2025

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What if you could create a dish that encapsulates comfort and flavor in just one pot? Imagine the aroma of ripe tomatoes mingling with fresh herbs wafting through your kitchen as you whip up a delicious meal. This One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides a warm hug on a chilly evening.

Whether you are hosting friends for dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish serves as the perfect centerpiece. The creamy texture blends seamlessly with the tangy tomato sauce, creating an unforgettable experience in every bite. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when time is not on your side.

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

Quick and Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time and cooking involved, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to whip up dinner in no time. You can have a hearty meal on the table in about 30 minutes without sacrificing flavor or quality.

Minimal Cleanup Required: Since everything cooks in just one pot, you can enjoy your meal without worrying about a pile of dirty dishes afterward. This makes it an excellent choice for families or those who dislike extensive cleanup.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize this dish according to your preferences by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or even proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp. The possibilities are endless!

Comforting and Satisfying: This creamy tomato pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience! The rich flavors combined with the comforting texture make it a go-to comfort food that everyone will love.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta: Any short pasta works well; penne or fusilli holds the sauce beautifully.
Canned Diced Tomatoes: Use high-quality tomatoes for maximum flavor; San Marzano tomatoes are an excellent choice.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness and creaminess to the sauce; you can substitute with half-and-half if preferred.
Fresh Basil: Adds bright flavor; use whole leaves for garnishing after cooking.
Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances flavor; use minced garlic cloves for best results.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Cook the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant—about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn it!

Add Tomatoes and Pasta: Stir in canned diced tomatoes along with any juices and then add your chosen pasta. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Pour in Broth: Add vegetable or chicken broth to cover the pasta completely. Bring this mixture to a boil then reduce heat to low.

Simmer Until Tender: Let it simmer uncovered for about 10-12 minutes until the pasta is cooked al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Add Heavy Cream and Seasonings: Once cooked, pour in heavy cream and mix well until combined. Season with salt and pepper according to taste.

Garnish and Serve: Top with freshly chopped basil before serving. Transfer to plates and enjoy your delightful creation!

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Choose Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta largely depends on the quality of your ingredients. Opt for fresh herbs and high-quality canned tomatoes whenever possible.

Adjust Consistency as Needed: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer without covering it. For a thinner consistency, simply add more broth or cream until you reach your desired texture.

Pasta Variety Matters: Different types of pasta absorb liquid differently; shorter shapes work best for even cooking in this recipe. Avoid long strands like spaghetti which may require extra attention during cooking.

Leftovers Can Be Enjoyed Later: This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat gently on low heat while stirring frequently so it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.

Serving Suggestions

This One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Garlic Bread

A side of warm, buttery garlic bread complements the creamy tomato pasta perfectly. The crispy texture of the bread adds a delightful contrast to the smooth pasta. Simply toast slices of your favorite bread with a mixture of garlic, parsley, and butter for an irresistible addition. Serve it alongside your dish to soak up every last bit of sauce.

Caesar Salad

A fresh Caesar salad enhances the rich flavors of One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta. The crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing balance to the meal. Toss in some grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and texture. This combination not only elevates your dining experience but also adds a nutritious element to the table.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables make a colorful and healthy side dish that pairs beautifully with One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta. Choose seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with herbs. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness while adding depth to your meal. This combination creates a well-rounded dinner that satisfies both taste and nutrition.

Grilled Chicken

For those looking to add protein to their meal, grilled chicken is an excellent option. Season chicken breasts with herbs and spices before grilling them to perfection. Slicing the juicy chicken over a bed of creamy tomato pasta not only makes for an appealing presentation but also provides additional flavor and sustenance, perfect for hearty appetites.

FAQs

What makes this One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta special?

One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is special because it combines simplicity with rich flavors in one cooking vessel. This recipe saves time on cleanup while delivering a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The creamy sauce envelops each pasta piece, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness.

Can I customize my One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta?

Absolutely! You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. Spinach, mushrooms, or even shrimp work beautifully in this creamy tomato base. Feel free to experiment with seasonings to suit your personal taste preferences while keeping the core elements intact.

How long does it take to prepare One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta?

Preparation for One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta takes about 10 minutes, while cooking usually takes around 20-25 minutes. In just under an hour, you can have a delicious meal ready for your family or guests without much hassle, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Can I make One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can make One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta ahead of time! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve it again, simply reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through for a quick meal any day of the week.

Conclusion

In summary, One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is an easy-to-make dish that offers incredible flavor in a single pot. The versatility allows you to pair it with various sides like garlic bread or salads for a complete meal experience. Customizing this dish lets you explore different ingredients while keeping cooking simple and enjoyable.