Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a weeknight dinner hero! Packed with rich flavors, it features al dente pasta simmered in a luscious tomato sauce, finished with creamy goodness for a comforting meal that’s both simple and satisfying. Plus, the one-pot method makes cleanup a breeze, letting you enjoy more time with family and friends. Perfect for busy evenings or any pasta lover craving a creamy delight!
This dish has quickly become a staple in our household. The combination of creamy sauce and hearty pasta is simply irresistible!
The Perfect Weeknight Meal
After a long day, the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen. This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is designed to minimize hassle without sacrificing flavor. With just one pot required, you can whip up a satisfying meal in less than 30 minutes, allowing you to spend more quality time with your loved ones. This dish takes the stress out of cooking, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
The combination of al dente pasta enveloped in a creamy tomato sauce is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just for yourself, this recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. Comfort food doesn’t get much easier than this!
Ingredients That Shine
The beauty of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. By using pantry staples like canned diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and onions, you create a rich base that is easy to enhance further. The heavy cream adds a velvety richness that transforms this everyday meal into a comforting delight. Additionally, fresh basil or parsley not only adds a burst of color but also elevates the flavor profile.
Since the recipe is quite flexible, feel free to customize it to suit your preferences. You can switch out the pasta for whole grain or gluten-free options, and if you're feeling adventurous, try adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition. This ensures that you can enjoy this dish time and time again without it ever feeling repetitive.
Why One Pot Cooking Matters
One pot cooking is a game-changer for many households, especially for those juggling busy schedules. Not only does it save you time in preparation and cooking, but it also simplifies cleanup significantly. You can savor the cooking process without the dread of a pile of dirty dishes waiting for you afterward. This method is effective for getting the best flavors to meld together as everything cooks in one place, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Additionally, the one pot method fosters creativity in the kitchen. With fewer dishes and fewer ingredients to juggle, cooking becomes more accessible and enjoyable. It allows novice cooks to gain confidence and learn valuable skills while still impressing diners with gourmet-level results.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 300g pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 250ml vegetable broth
- 200ml heavy cream
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
- Basil or parsley for garnish
Make sure all ingredients are prepped and ready to go!
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the Tomatoes and Pasta
Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices and the vegetable broth. Stir in the pasta, making sure it is submerged in the liquid. Season with salt and pepper.
Cook the Pasta
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook until the pasta is al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Finish with Cream
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Adjust seasoning as necessary.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious one-pot creamy tomato pasta!
Cleanup is a breeze with this one-pot meal!
Serving Suggestions
This creamy tomato pasta can be a stand-alone dish, but it pairs beautifully with several accompaniments. A fresh side salad with a zesty dressing not only complements the richness of the pasta but also adds a refreshing crunch. Consider adding garlic bread or a slice of crusty baguette to soak up the flavorful sauce, making your meal even more satisfying.
For those looking to enhance the nutritional aspect of this dish, you can include a side of steamed or roasted vegetables. Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans make excellent choices that can elevate your meal while adding vibrant colors to your plate.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers from this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, consider adding a splash of vegetable broth or cream to restore the dish's creaminess, as it may thicken when chilled. Simply heat it gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta for up to a month. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, allowing you to savor this delightful meal even on your busiest days.
Custom Variations
The versatility of this creamy tomato pasta dinner means you can easily adapt it to your dietary needs and personal preferences. Try adding protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a plant-based meat substitute to elevate the meal and make it more filling. This way, you can tailor it to suit everyone’s taste at your table.
Additionally, experimenting with different herbs and spices can give this dish a fresh twist. Try incorporating red pepper flakes for a kick of heat, or add Italian seasoning for a more aromatic depth. With such a user-friendly recipe, you can make this dish uniquely your own for years to come.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can substitute regular pasta for gluten-free pasta. Just keep an eye on the cooking time.
→ How can I add protein to this dish?
Feel free to add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even canned beans for added protein.
Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a weeknight dinner hero! Packed with rich flavors, it features al dente pasta simmered in a luscious tomato sauce, finished with creamy goodness for a comforting meal that’s both simple and satisfying. Plus, the one-pot method makes cleanup a breeze, letting you enjoy more time with family and friends. Perfect for busy evenings or any pasta lover craving a creamy delight!
Created by: Chelsea Payne
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 300g pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 250ml vegetable broth
- 200ml heavy cream
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
- Basil or parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices and the vegetable broth. Stir in the pasta, making sure it is submerged in the liquid. Season with salt and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook until the pasta is al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Adjust seasoning as necessary.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious one-pot creamy tomato pasta!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 20g