Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe Perfect for Dinner

The scent of simmering tomatoes mixed with creamy goodness and garlic is pure magic. This one pot creamy tomato pasta recipe is everything you need for a quick, comforting dinner that feels gourmet without the fuss. The best part? You only need one pot, which means less cleanup and more time to savor every bite. It’s my go-to for those “I don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen” kind of nights, and honestly, it’s always a hit with family and friends. Let me share the secrets to making this irresistible dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Minimal Cleanup: One pot means less mess and no juggling multiple dishes.
• Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples come together to create something extraordinary.
• Rich and Creamy: The sauce is velvety smooth with a perfect balance of tangy tomatoes and creamy cheese.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, protein, or spices to make it your own.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters love this comforting pasta dish.

What sets this recipe apart is the way the pasta cooks directly in the sauce, soaking up all those delicious flavors. No draining or extra pots needed—just pure, creamy pasta perfection in every bite.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) of your favorite pasta shape (penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti works).
• Canned Tomatoes: 1 can (14 oz/400 g) crushed tomatoes for a deep, tangy flavor.
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup (240 ml) for that luxurious creamy texture.
• Chicken Broth: 2 cups (480 ml) or use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced, for a fragrant base.
• Onion: 1 small onion, finely chopped, to add depth to the sauce.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for sautéing.
• Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup (50 g), grated, for that cheesy finish.
• Dried Basil: 1 teaspoon for a touch of herbal flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.

Optional add-ins: Fresh spinach, cooked chicken, mushrooms, or red pepper flakes for heat.

Equipment Needed

This recipe requires only a few basic kitchen tools:

• Large Pot: A heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven works best for even cooking.
• Wooden Spoon: For stirring the pasta and sauce without scratching your pot.
• Knife and Cutting Board: To chop garlic and onions.
• Grater: For freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional but recommended).

If you don’t have a Dutch oven, a large skillet with high sides can work as an alternative. Just make sure it’s big enough to hold all the pasta and sauce!

Preparation Method

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking until fragrant and translucent (about 3 minutes).
2. Add the Tomatoes: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and dried basil. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to deepen the flavor.
3. Add Broth and Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add the pasta and stir to ensure it’s evenly coated with the sauce.
4. Cook the Pasta: Reduce heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
5. Make it Creamy: Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes. The sauce should thicken beautifully.
6. Add Cheese: Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and incorporated.
7. Season and Serve: Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh basil if desired.

Pro tip: If the sauce looks too thick, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your creamy tomato pasta turns out perfect every time:

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Stir occasionally while cooking to prevent sticking, and check for doneness a minute or two early.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic adds much more flavor than pre-minced garlic from a jar.
• Grate Your Own Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese can be clumpy; freshly grated cheese melts smoother.
• Avoid High Heat: Simmer the sauce gently to prevent curdling the cream.
• Customize the Flavor: Add red chili flakes for heat or a teaspoon of sugar if your tomatoes are too acidic.

If you accidentally over-reduce the sauce, just add a splash of broth or cream to bring it back to life!

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is wonderfully versatile. Here are some ways to switch it up:

• Make it Vegetarian: Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth and add sautéed mushrooms or zucchini.
• Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or even crumbled sausage for a heartier meal.
• Seasonal Veggies: Toss in fresh spinach, roasted bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition.
• Spicy Twist: Add red chili flakes or hot sauce to give the sauce a spicy kick.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta instead of traditional wheat pasta.

Personally, I love adding fresh spinach right at the end—it wilts beautifully into the creamy sauce.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Here’s how to serve and store your creamy tomato pasta:

• Serving: Serve hot with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh basil. Pair it with garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Heat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.

Over time, the flavors become even richer, making leftovers a delightful treat!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This creamy tomato pasta isn’t just delicious; it’s packed with nutritional benefits:

• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving.
• Protein: The Parmesan cheese and pasta provide a good protein boost.
• Tomatoes: Rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.
• Customizable: Add spinach or other veggies for extra fiber and nutrition.

Note: Heavy cream adds richness but can be substituted with a lighter option like half-and-half if desired.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dinner recipe that’s simple, comforting, and downright delicious, this easy one pot creamy tomato pasta is it. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but is secretly so easy to make. Plus, the one-pot method means it’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Try it out, and let me know how you customize it to suit your taste!

I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a comment below with your favorite additions or tweaks. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family—it’s too good to keep to yourself!

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can substitute canned tomatoes with about 2 cups of fresh diced tomatoes. Simmer until softened and slightly reduced.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?

Short pasta like penne or rigatoni works best, but spaghetti or fettuccine can also be used.

How do I prevent my pasta from sticking while cooking?

Stir the pasta frequently, especially during the first few minutes of cooking, to ensure it doesn’t stick to the pot.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, you can easily double the ingredients—just make sure your pot is large enough to handle the increased volume!

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