Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

This easy one pot creamy tomato pasta is the perfect dish for a quick and satisfying meal. It’s simple, rich, and full of flavor, combining tender pasta with a creamy tomato sauce, all made in one pot for minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving comfort food, this recipe will become a go-to favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: No need to deal with multiple dishes—everything cooks together in one pot, saving you time and effort.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this is a great last-minute meal when you’re short on time.
• Creamy and Delicious: The blend of tomatoes, cream, and pasta creates a luxurious and comforting dish.
• Customizable: Add your favorite proteins or veggies to make it your own.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish for its creamy and tangy flavors.

Ingredients

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

• Pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your choice)
• Olive oil
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
• Heavy cream or half-and-half
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the garlic: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add tomatoes and pasta: Pour in the crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce) and stir. Add your pasta to the pot, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the sauce.
3. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Stir occasionally to ensure the pasta cooks evenly in the sauce.
4. Add cream: Once the pasta is al dente, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half, allowing it to blend with the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Finish with cheese: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the pot, stirring until the sauce becomes creamy and the cheese is fully melted.
6. Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 4 people.
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: You can add cooked chicken, sausage, or shrimp for a heartier dish.
• Vegetarian Add-Ins: Throw in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra vegetables.
• Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Vegan Option: Use coconut milk or a non-dairy cream and substitute the Parmesan with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

How can I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally while it’s simmering in the sauce. The starchy pasta water helps keep the pasta from sticking.

Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, spaghetti, or fusilli. Adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or almond milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.

Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can make it ahead and reheat it later. Add a splash of cream when reheating to restore the creamy texture.

Can I freeze creamy tomato pasta?

Creamy pasta dishes don’t freeze well as the sauce may separate when reheating. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh or refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half, milk, or a non-dairy substitute like coconut milk for a lighter option.

How can I make this dish more flavorful?

Try adding herbs like oregano, thyme, or red pepper flakes, or toss in some sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Just chop them finely and cook them down to release their juices, or blend them into a smooth sauce.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap the regular pasta for gluten-free pasta. Be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta’s package instructions.

Conclusion

This easy one pot creamy tomato pasta is a fantastic dish for anyone looking for a quick, delicious, and comforting meal. Whether you keep it simple or customize it with your favorite add-ins, this recipe is sure to please. Plus, with only one pot to clean up, it’s a perfect option for busy weeknights!

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