Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a simple, yet delicious dish that’s perfect for busy nights when you want a comforting meal without a lot of cleanup. The creamy tomato sauce coats every piece of pasta in a velvety, rich finish, while the herbs and seasonings create layers of flavor. The best part? Everything cooks in one pot, so there’s less fuss and more time to enjoy the meal.
I first made Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta when I was craving something rich and satisfying but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It was a complete hit! The sauce comes together beautifully, and the pasta absorbs all the creamy, tangy tomato goodness as it simmers. You can make this dish your own by adding vegetables like spinach, or even protein like grilled chicken or sausage. It’s quick, hearty, and perfect for a family dinner or a cozy date night!
Perfect for:
- Busy weeknights
- Family dinners
- Comfort food cravings
- Quick and easy meals
- Tomato and pasta lovers
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta will become your new go-to meal:
- Effortless One-Pot Cooking: Everything is cooked in one pot, saving you time and cleaning effort.
- Rich and Creamy Sauce: The creamy tomato sauce is perfectly balanced with tangy tomatoes and smooth cream.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Flavorful Base: Garlic, onion, and basil infuse the pasta with savory and aromatic flavors.
- Comforting and Satisfying: The creamy texture and rich taste provide the ultimate comfort food experience.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, proteins, or extra seasonings to tailor the dish to your taste.
- Kid-Friendly: The mild and creamy flavor is perfect for picky eaters.
- One-Pot Cleanup: No need for multiple pots and pans—just one to wash afterward.
- Perfect for Leftovers: The dish tastes just as good the next day, making it a great option for meal prep.
- Vegetarian Option: Made without meat, making it a great choice for vegetarians or those reducing meat intake.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 14g, Carbs: 55g, Fat: 20g
Ingredients
For the Pasta and Sauce:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Ingredient Highlights
- Crushed Tomatoes: Provide a rich, tangy base for the creamy sauce.
- Heavy Cream: Creates a smooth and velvety sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the creaminess.
- Olive Oil and Garlic: Build the savory foundation for the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth, stirring to combine.
- Season the Sauce: Add basil, salt, and pepper, then bring the sauce to a simmer.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked pasta to the pot. Stir to combine, making sure the pasta is submerged in the sauce. Cover the pot and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Finish the Sauce:
- Add Cream and Parmesan: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
- Simmer and Thicken: Let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens.
Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the pasta with fresh basil and more grated Parmesan before serving.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta:
- As a Family Dinner: Serve with a side of garlic bread and a green salad for a complete meal.
- With Grilled Chicken: Top the pasta with sliced grilled chicken for added protein.
- With Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an added pop of color and flavor.
- For a Cozy Dinner: Serve it alongside a glass of mocktail for a cozy evening.
- As a Meal Prep Option: Make a double batch and pack leftovers for lunches throughout the week.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added texture.
- For a Meatless Meal: Enjoy as a filling and satisfying vegetarian option.
- With a Side of Soup: Pair with a light tomato soup or vegetable broth for a hearty, comforting meal.
- For a Special Touch: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
- As a Weeknight Winner: Quick and easy, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
Additional Tips
- Use Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds a more vibrant and aromatic flavor compared to dried.
- Stir Occasionally: Stir the pasta while cooking to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little extra broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Add Protein: Add cooked sausage, bacon, or shrimp to elevate the dish if you prefer meat.
- Vegetarian Variation: Use vegetable broth and skip the Parmesan for a vegan-friendly version.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Tomato Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Tomato and Spinach Pasta: Stir in fresh spinach leaves in the last few minutes of cooking for added greens.
- Garlic Butter Tomato Pasta: Replace the olive oil with butter for a richer, garlicky sauce.
- Creamy Pesto Tomato Pasta: Stir in a tablespoon of pesto for a herby twist.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to intensify the tomato flavor.
- Vegan Option: Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
- Cheesy Tomato Pasta: Stir in more cheese such as mozzarella or goat cheese for extra creaminess.
- Herb-Infused Pasta: Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic flavor.
Special Equipment
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Ideal for cooking the pasta and sauce together.
- Wooden Spoon: For stirring and preventing pasta from sticking.
- Grater: For freshly grating Parmesan cheese.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
FAQ Section
- Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions. - Can I use canned tomato sauce instead of crushed tomatoes?
Yes, you can substitute tomato sauce, but it may change the texture and richness of the dish. - Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it. Add a splash of broth to loosen up the sauce if needed. - Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this pasta freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. - How do I make the pasta spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or a dash of cayenne pepper to increase the heat. - Can I use dairy-free cream?
Yes, you can substitute dairy-free cream or coconut milk for a non-dairy version. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of broth or water to loosen the sauce. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and cook it in a larger pot. - Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to swap in any pasta shape you prefer. - How do I keep the sauce creamy when reheating?
Add a little extra cream or broth while reheating to maintain the creamy texture.
Conclusion
Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a quick and satisfying dish that combines tender pasta with a rich, creamy tomato sauce—all made in one pot for easy cleanup. The creamy tomato sauce is created by simmering together crushed tomatoes, garlic, onion, and a touch of heavy cream or cream cheese, which gives the sauce a velvety texture and a slight tanginess.
The pasta is cooked right in the sauce, absorbing all the delicious flavors as it cooks. You can use any type of pasta you like, such as penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti. Once the pasta is tender, a generous amount of Parmesan cheese is stirred in, adding a savory, cheesy depth to the dish. This meal is incredibly versatile—you can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or even some cooked chicken or sausage for extra protein. The beauty of this recipe is how easy it is to make and how satisfying it is, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal.
I can’t wait to see how your Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!
