Description
A quick and delicious one-pot creamy tomato pasta recipe perfect for weeknights. Made with a rich tomato sauce, cream, and Parmesan, it’s a simple, fuss-free dinner the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz pasta of choice (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until the onion turns translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Add Tomato Base: Stir in crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Mix well until the paste is fully incorporated.
- Season the Sauce: Add salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer the mixture for 2–3 minutes to enhance flavors.
- Add Broth and Pasta: Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Add the pasta, stirring to submerge it in the liquid.
- Cook Pasta in Sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low and cook the pasta until al dente, stirring occasionally. The pasta will absorb the flavors while releasing starch to thicken the sauce.
- Incorporate Cream: Once the pasta is cooked and most liquid is absorbed, stir in heavy cream until smooth.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle Parmesan into the pot and stir until melted and combined. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream for a creamy consistency.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 1 month. Note: the cream may change texture slightly after freezing.
- Tips: Stir pasta occasionally to prevent sticking. Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: dinner pasta
- Method: one pot
- Cuisine: italian inspired
Keywords: One-pot creamy pasta Tomato pasta recipe Easy weeknight dinner Budget-friendly pasta Creamy tomato sauce