Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delightful dish that combines convenience with rich flavors, perfect for any weeknight dinner.
This creamy tomato pasta recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It requires minimal prep and clean-up, making it a go-to for families and busy individuals alike. The combination of creamy sauce and rich tomato flavor will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich tomato flavor with a creamy twist
- One pot means less clean-up
- Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
A Perfect Weeknight Meal
When it comes to busy weeknights, finding a meal that is both quick to prepare and satisfying can be a challenge. This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta fits the bill perfectly. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in less than 30 minutes. The combination of creamy sauce and fresh tomatoes makes this dish a family favorite, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters will be coming back for seconds.
One of the best aspects of this recipe is that it requires only one pot. This means you'll spend less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your meal. Plus, the flavors meld beautifully as everything cooks together, creating a rich, comforting dish that feels indulgent without all the fuss. Whether you’re cooking for a family or just yourself, this pasta dish is sure to impress.
Versatile and Customizable
Another reason to love this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Want to add some protein? Consider tossing in grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. You can also incorporate seasonal vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini, to boost the nutritional value and add extra flavor.
If you prefer a little heat, feel free to sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while cooking. The creamy tomato sauce serves as a wonderful base that can accommodate various flavor profiles, making it an ideal dish for experimenting with ingredients you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to get creative!
Perfect Pairings
To round out your meal, consider pairing this creamy tomato pasta with a simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread. A fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the pasta. Additionally, a slice of warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce, making every bite delightful.
For beverage pairings, a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the creamy tomato sauce beautifully. Alternatively, a sparkling water with a hint of lemon can refresh your palate. Enjoy this meal with family or friends, and watch as everyone savors each delicious bite!
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
Cook the Pasta
Add the cherry tomatoes, vegetable broth, and dried herbs to the pot. Bring to a boil, then add the pasta. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
Add Cream
Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
Serve
Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot. Enjoy your creamy tomato pasta!
This dish pairs perfectly with a side salad or garlic bread!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture.
For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta dish for up to three months. However, keep in mind that the cream may change texture once thawed. It's best to reheat frozen pasta slowly and gently to minimize any texture changes. This allows you to enjoy the delicious flavors of your favorite meal even on the busiest of days.
Nutritional Information
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is not only delicious but also provides a good balance of nutrients. The cherry tomatoes are a great source of vitamins C and K, while the heavy cream adds a dose of calcium. If you opt for whole grain pasta, you’ll benefit from added fiber, which is essential for digestive health.
For those looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute the heavy cream with a lighter cream or a plant-based alternative. Additionally, incorporating vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the overall nutritional profile of the meal, making it a wholesome option for any dinner table.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, gluten-free pasta can be used. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
→ Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a vegan cream alternative.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas would be great additions.
Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delightful dish that combines convenience with rich flavors, perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Created by: Lucinda Price
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
Add the cherry tomatoes, vegetable broth, and dried herbs to the pot. Bring to a boil, then add the pasta. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot. Enjoy your creamy tomato pasta!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 10g