Creamy Tomato Pasta in One Pot: An Irresistibly Delicious & Easy Creamy Tomato Dish 🍝🍅✨
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a comforting and flavorful meal that’s quick and easy to make, this creamy tomato pasta recipe is perfect for you. Not only does it come together in just one pot, but it also bursts with rich tomato flavor complemented by a luscious creamy sauce. This one pot pasta dish is ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a satisfying meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome easy creamy tomato dish with minimal cleanup.
2. Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) of pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 1 can (14 oz) of crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
- 1 cup of heavy cream or coconut cream (for a dairy-free option)
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Creamy Tomato Pasta
Preparation
Gather all your ingredients, and have your cooking tools ready for a smooth process.
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.
Sauté Aromatics
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in the same pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
Add Tomato Base
Pour in the crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce. Stir in dried oregano and basil. Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Make the Creamy Sauce
Reduce heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is heated through. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce. Toss gently to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish and Serve
Finish with freshly chopped basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious creamy tomato pasta.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Creamy Tomato Pasta
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, reheate gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to revive the creamy texture.
5. Serving Suggestions
This easy creamy tomato dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. For added protein, consider serving it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or your favorite plant-based protein options. Check out our creamy crockpot butter chicken recipe for a perfect complement.
6. FAQs about Creamy Tomato Pasta
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with penne, fusilli, spaghetti, or any pasta you prefer. Choose what you have on hand for a versatile meal.
Is this dish suitable for a dairy-free diet?
Yes, simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative. The flavor remains rich and satisfying.
How quick is this recipe to prepare?
From start to finish, you can expect to make this quick tomato pasta in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Can I add vegetables or proteins?
Definitely! Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra veggies. Add cooked chicken or shrimp to boost the protein content.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – Perfect for sautéing and cooking your pasta and sauce effortlessly.
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Makes chopping garlic and onions a breeze.
- Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker – For preparing a refreshing drink to enjoy with your meal.
- Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker – An excellent tool if you want to make an even richer, slow-cooked sauce in advance.
Using these tools can make your cooking experience more enjoyable and efficient, ensuring perfect results every time.
8. Final Tips for Perfect Creamy Tomato Pasta
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor if you decide to include cheese.
- Adjust the cream amount based on your desired richness.
- Reheat gently to prevent the sauce from splitting.
9. Conclusion
Enjoy this creamy tomato pasta as a quick, comforting meal that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights or effortless weekend dinners. Experiment with add-ins like vegetables or proteins to customize this easy creamy tomato dish to your taste. For more delicious pasta ideas, explore our ultimate Philly cheese steak pasta or our other pasta recipes. Happy cooking!
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Creamy Tomato Pasta in One Pot
A simple and satisfying creamy tomato pasta cooked entirely in one pot, perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or spaghetti)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low, stir in heavy cream, and cook until warmed through.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce, toss to coat evenly.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Adjust spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 520 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
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