Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a quick and delicious meal that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table.
This creamy tomato pasta is perfect for busy weeknights. The one-pot method means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal. With rich flavors and a creamy texture, it's sure to be a family favorite!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that comforts the soul
- One pot means easy cleanup and less hassle
- Perfectly seasoned with herbs for a burst of flavor
- Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy days
A Simple Yet Flavorful Dish
When it comes to quick meals, this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta stands out as a winner. The combination of fresh ingredients and creamy sauce creates a dish that feels indulgent yet is straightforward enough for any home cook. The use of one pot not only simplifies the cooking process but also minimizes the dreaded cleanup, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners. Whether you're cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and comforting texture.
The harmony of tomatoes and cream forms the base of this delicious pasta dish. Diced tomatoes add a fresh, tangy flavor while the heavy cream brings a luscious richness that ties everything together. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that rivals those served in upscale restaurants, all from the comfort of your own kitchen.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best aspects of this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. If you're looking to add more vegetables, consider tossing in some spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms during the cooking process. For a protein boost, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be added to make the dish more filling. This adaptability ensures that you can enjoy this recipe time and time again without it ever feeling repetitive.
Additionally, experimenting with different types of pasta can lead to exciting variations. While penne is a fantastic choice for this dish, feel free to swap it out for fusilli, farfalle, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to every shape, ensuring you get that satisfying flavor in every bite.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is not just a weeknight staple; it's also perfect for entertaining. Impress your guests with a delicious and visually appealing dish that looks like it took hours to prepare. Serve it alongside a fresh salad and crusty bread for a complete meal that feels special without the stress of complicated cooking. Your guests will appreciate the effort you put into the meal while you can relax and enjoy their company.
Moreover, leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator, making this dish a great option for meal prep. Heat it up the next day for a quick lunch or dinner, and it will taste just as good as when it was first made. This flexibility makes it a go-to recipe for busy individuals and families alike.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
Add the Tomatoes and Pasta
Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer before adding the penne pasta.
Cook the Pasta
Cover the pot and let the pasta cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Make it Creamy
Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
Serve
Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot!
Enjoy your delicious creamy pasta!
Tips for the Best Results
To ensure your pasta is cooked to perfection, keep an eye on the cooking time and stir occasionally. This helps prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot and ensures even cooking. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the pasta simmer a little longer to allow more liquid to evaporate.
For an added depth of flavor, consider sautéing some red pepper flakes with the onions and garlic. This will give the dish a subtle kick that complements the creamy tomato sauce beautifully. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and don't be afraid to experiment with fresh herbs like oregano or thyme for an extra flavor boost.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to restore the creamy consistency and prevent the pasta from drying out. Heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
For longer storage, consider freezing the pasta. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding liquid as needed to achieve the desired creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad. A mix of greens with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta. Additionally, garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, turning your meal into a cozy feast.
For a final touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. It adds a savory note that enhances the overall flavor profile and makes the dish even more appealing. A few fresh basil leaves as a garnish not only brighten the dish visually but also introduce a burst of freshness that complements the creamy tomato sauce.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can substitute gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
→ How can I make this recipe vegan?
Use plant-based cream and vegetable broth to make this dish vegan-friendly.
→ Can I add vegetables to this pasta?
Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers would be great additions.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a quick and delicious meal that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table.
Created by: Lucy Thompson
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer before adding the penne pasta.
Cover the pot and let the pasta cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 6g