Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delicious and hassle-free meal that comes together in just one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights!
This creamy tomato pasta is not only quick and easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. The rich tomato sauce combined with creamy ingredients creates a dish that everyone will love.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that envelops each pasta strand
- Rich tomato flavor enhanced with aromatic herbs
- One pot means easy cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal
Quick and Convenient Cooking
One pot meals are a lifesaver for anyone with a busy schedule. This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta not only saves time but also minimizes the amount of cookware needed. With fewer dishes to wash, you'll have more time to relax and enjoy your meal with family or friends. The simplicity of this recipe allows it to fit seamlessly into any nightly routine.
In this recipe, all ingredients cook together in one pot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. As the pasta cooks, it absorbs the rich tomato and cream mixture, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. This is a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best aspects of this creamy tomato pasta is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Swap out the heavy cream for a lighter option like half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free twist. You can also add in vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
If you're looking to boost the protein content, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas. The recipe is forgiving and encourages creativity, allowing you to make it your own while still achieving that creamy, comforting result.
Perfect Pairings
Pair this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A simple arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the pasta perfectly, adding a refreshing contrast. You can also serve it alongside a glass of your favorite white wine for a delightful dining experience.
For a touch of elegance, consider garnishing with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat. The possibilities are endless, making this dish not only a weeknight staple but also an option for more special occasions.
Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Make sure to check your pantry for any missing ingredients.
Instructions
Follow these steps for a delicious one pot meal.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the Pasta and Liquids
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente, about 10 minutes.
Make it Creamy
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream, dried basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Serve
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for garnish.
Enjoy your creamy tomato pasta with a side salad or some garlic bread!
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, this creamy tomato pasta stores well in the refrigerator. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept for up to three days, making it a fantastic option for meal prepping or enjoying later in the week.
To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or cream to restore its creamy texture. This way, you can enjoy the comforting flavors of this dish even on your busiest days.
Nutritional Information
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is not only delicious but also provides a balanced meal. The combination of pasta, cream, and tomatoes offers carbohydrates for energy, while the addition of herbs like basil and oregano provides beneficial antioxidants. It’s a hearty dish that can satisfy your hunger without compromising on flavor.
For those monitoring their caloric intake, consider portion control or modifying the ingredients to suit your dietary needs. Reducing the amount of cream or opting for whole grain pasta can enhance the nutritional profile while still delivering a satisfying meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
→ Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I add vegetables to this pasta?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition.
Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delicious and hassle-free meal that comes together in just one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Created by: Phoebe Drake
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente, about 10 minutes.
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream, dried basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for garnish.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 10g