Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delightful and simple dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines creamy sauce and al dente pasta in one pot for minimal cleanup.
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is not only a quick and satisfying meal but also a great way to bring the family together. With a blend of fresh tomatoes and creamy sauce, it's a dish that everyone will love.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy sauce that coats every strand of pasta
- One pot means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal
- Quick cooking time makes it perfect for busy weeknights
The Perfect Comfort Food
When it comes to comfort food, pasta tops the list for many. This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta offers that warmth and satisfaction we crave after a long day. The creamy sauce envelops each piece of penne, creating a dish that's not just filling but also incredibly comforting. Whether you're enjoying it on a chilly evening or sharing it with family, this recipe is sure to bring smiles around the dinner table.
The combination of flavors in this dish is truly delightful. The acidity of the crushed tomatoes balances out the richness of the heavy cream, making every bite a perfect harmony. Paired with aromatic herbs like basil and oregano, this pasta dish becomes a culinary experience that transcends the simplicity of its ingredients. It's a reminder that sometimes, the simplest meals can be the most satisfying.
Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to cook can be a challenge. That's where this one pot recipe shines. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a delicious meal in under 30 minutes. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you're short on time but still want to enjoy a home-cooked meal.
The one pot method means you won't have to deal with a mountain of dishes afterward. Everything cooks together in the same pot, making cleanup a breeze. This not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. It's a win-win situation for anyone looking to simplify their cooking routine.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best aspects of this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is its versatility. While the recipe calls for penne pasta, you can easily substitute it with any pasta shape you have on hand, like fusilli, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. This flexibility means you can tailor the dish to your preferences or what you have available in your pantry.
You can also add in your favorite vegetables or proteins to elevate this dish further. Consider tossing in some spinach, mushrooms, or grilled chicken for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition. The creamy sauce works wonderfully with various ingredients, allowing you to experiment and make the recipe your own every time.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh basil for garnish
Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking.
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Combine Ingredients
Add the penne pasta, crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, vegetable broth, dried basil, and oregano to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook the Pasta
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened, about 15 minutes.
Serve
Once cooked, serve the pasta hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
Enjoy your delicious creamy tomato pasta!
Tips for the Best Results
To ensure your pasta cooks evenly and absorbs the sauce perfectly, make sure to stir it occasionally during the cooking process. This prevents the pasta from sticking together or clumping at the bottom of the pot. If you notice the sauce getting too thick, feel free to add a splash of vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
For an added depth of flavor, consider sautéing some red pepper flakes with the garlic. This will give your dish a gentle heat that complements the creaminess. Remember to taste as you go, adjusting the seasoning to suit your palate.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the pasta even more delicious the next day. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce, as it may thicken in the fridge.
For best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through. This method helps maintain the creamy texture without overcooking the pasta. If you're in a hurry, the microwave is also an option; just be sure to cover the container to retain moisture.
Pairing Suggestions
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and a glass of your favorite white wine. A light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta, balancing the meal perfectly. For an extra touch, consider serving with garlic bread on the side for a truly indulgent experience.
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, try pairing it with grilled vegetables or a side of roasted asparagus. The earthy flavors of the vegetables will enhance the dish, making it a well-rounded and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can use coconut cream and vegan pasta to make this dish vegan-friendly.
→ What can I serve with this pasta?
This creamy tomato pasta pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread.
Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delightful and simple dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines creamy sauce and al dente pasta in one pot for minimal cleanup.
Created by: Heidi Lawson
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh basil for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the penne pasta, crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, vegetable broth, dried basil, and oregano to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened, about 15 minutes.
Once cooked, serve the pasta hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 10g