Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a comforting, creamy, and flavorful dish that will quickly become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. With just a few simple ingredients, it’s packed with rich, tangy tomato flavor, and a silky smooth sauce. Plus, it’s cooked in one pot, which means minimal cleanup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is everything you could want in a pasta dish – creamy, rich, and satisfying, but also incredibly easy to prepare. The best part is that it’s all cooked in one pot, which saves you time and effort. The combination of creamy tomato sauce with tender pasta is comforting and perfect for busy days or when you just want a delicious homemade meal with minimal fuss. Whether you’re feeding the whole family or just making dinner for one, this dish delivers big on flavor without requiring a lot of ingredients or prep work. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be adjusted to your taste – feel free to add extra veggies, herbs, or even some protein!

this Recipe

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or any short pasta works well)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup (240ml) chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until softened.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Add the pasta to the pot and stir to combine. Cover and let the pasta cook in the sauce for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened. If the sauce gets too thick, add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy, flavorful pasta!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken broth or use vegetable broth instead.
• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crumbled sausage.
• Add Veggies: Sauté some spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers with the onions and garlic for extra veggies.
• Cheesy Version: Stir in some grated parmesan cheese or mozzarella towards the end for a cheesy twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Allow the pasta to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the pasta in a pot over medium heat. Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen up the sauce, and stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes! Any short pasta like fusilli, farfalle, or rigatoni will work perfectly with this creamy tomato sauce.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully dairy-free version.

Is this recipe spicy?

It is mildly spicy because of the red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the heat by adding more or leaving them out entirely if you prefer a milder dish.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers to make it more colorful and nutritious.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can make it a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge and reheat it before serving.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

If your sauce is too thin, you can simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken. You can also add a little cornstarch mixed with water or a bit of parmesan cheese to help thicken it.

Can I freeze the leftover pasta?

While it’s not the best option for keeping the creamy texture intact, you can freeze leftover pasta for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth.

How can I make the sauce even creamier?

To make the sauce extra creamy, you can stir in some cream cheese, mascarpone, or a little bit of shredded mozzarella cheese.

What should I serve with this creamy tomato pasta?

This pasta is great on its own, but you can serve it with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Just dice them up and cook them down until they release their juices and form a sauce.

Conclusion

This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is the perfect combination of rich flavors, creamy texture, and simple preparation. It’s a go-to recipe that satisfies the whole family with minimal effort, all in just one pot! Whether you follow the recipe as is or customize it with your favorite ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

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