One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta

If you’re looking for a dinner that delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss, you’ll absolutely fall in love with One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta. Picture a cozy bowl of al dente pasta smothered in a luscious, tomato-infused sauce, balanced with garlic, herbs, a hint of heat, and a generous splash of cream. It’s easy, mess-free, and incredibly delicious—truly the type of meal you’ll crave again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta lies in its straightforward list of ingredients. Every item here plays a starring role in creating the perfect harmony of taste and texture—each bringing its own little bit of magic to this comfort classic!

• 8 ounces pasta: Any short shape works—penne, rotini, or rigatoni hold the sauce beautifully for that perfect creamy bite every time.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: This gives richness to the base and helps soften the onions and garlic for a deep, savory flavor.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: The onion adds subtle sweetness and depth, making the sauce even more irresistible.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic provides an aromatic kick and complements the tanginess of the tomatoes.
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes: Canned tomatoes offer both juiciness and body to the sauce, infusing the whole dish with bright, fresh flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: Classic basil pairs perfectly with tomatoes and brings Mediterranean flair to every bite.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Oregano boosts the herbal undertones, creating that classic Italian-inspired flavor.
• 1⁄2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Just a touch for gentle heat—adjust up or down depending on your spice preference!
• 1⁄2 cup heavy cream: This is where the magic happens: cream transforms the tomato sauce into something extra silky and luxurious.
• 1 cup vegetable broth: The broth helps the pasta cook right in the pan, absorbing every ounce of flavor.
• 1⁄2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan brings savoriness and that wonderful melt-in-your-mouth factor.
• Salt to taste: Season to bring all the flavors to life.
• Black pepper to taste: A little freshly cracked pepper rounds the dish out perfectly.
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish: Toss these on at the end for a bright pop of color and freshness.

How to Make One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta

Step 1: Start with Olive Oil and Onion

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle in the olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, toss in your chopped onions. Stir them around for about five minutes—you want them soft, golden, and fragrant, because they lay the foundation for all the flavor still to come.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the hot skillet with the onion. Give it a minute, but be watchful—let the kitchen fill up with garlic aroma, but don’t let it burn. This quick sizzle is what gives One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta its signature boldness.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Herbs

Pour in the diced tomatoes (juice and all). Now sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Give everything a gentle stir so the herbs bloom in the steamy, tomatoey mixture. This is where your sauce really starts to take on its personality!

Step 4: Season and Simmer

Sprinkle in salt and black pepper, then empty in the vegetable broth. Give it all a good stir and bring to a lively simmer—this readies the pan for cooking the pasta right alongside the flavorful sauce.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Add your pasta directly into the skillet, stirring to make sure each piece gets cozy in the sauce. Pop a lid on and let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until your pasta is perfectly al dente. Stir occasionally, making sure nothing sticks and the pasta cooks evenly, so every bite ends up saucy and satisfying.

Step 6: Stir in Cream

Once the pasta is tender, uncover the pan and lower the heat. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to blend it into the sauce. Let this creamy goodness simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes, just enough to thicken up and look irresistibly velvety.

Step 7: Add Parmesan and Finish

Take the skillet off the heat and shower in the grated Parmesan. Stir enthusiastically until melted and melded right into the sauce. Taste for seasoning—maybe a pinch more salt or pepper—then you’re ready for the grand finale: a scattering of fresh basil leaves over the top. Serve your One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta hot and dig in!

How to Serve One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of fresh basil leaves instantly transforms your One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta from simple to spectacular! A few extra flakes of Parmesan or a drizzle of good olive oil are the finishing touches that bump up the flavor and make your plate totally photo-worthy.

Side Dishes

This pasta is a cozy weeknight hero, but if you want to round out your meal, serve it with a crisp green salad tossed in lemony vinaigrette, or a loaf of crusty garlic bread, perfect for mopping up every last drop of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, try plating your One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta in shallow bowls with a fresh basil sprig on top. Or for fun, serve it family-style straight from the skillet in the center of the table, letting everyone help themselves to seconds and thirds! You could even add a side of roasted vegetables to elevate the presentation for special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers cool fully before scooping them into an airtight container. Stash the container in the fridge, and your One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta will still taste delicious up to three days later—making lunch the next day a total treat.

Freezing

If you want to save some for a later date, portion your fully cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers. It keeps quite well in the freezer for up to two months! When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Gently reheat portions on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to help the sauce regain its silky, creamy texture. If you’re short on time, the microwave works too—just stir halfway through to re-incorporate the cream and revive the dish’s signature richness.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While short shapes like penne or rigatoni work best for soaking up all the sauce, you can use spaghetti or fettuccine if that’s what you have—just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed for different pasta types.

What can I add to make this a heartier meal?

You can throw in greens like baby spinach or kale, or stir in cooked chicken, sausage, or even chickpeas for added protein—One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta is generous and endlessly adaptable!

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

This dish is already vegetarian if you use vegetable broth and vegetarian Parmesan-style cheese. To keep it vegan, substitute the cream with plant-based alternatives and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.

Can I adjust the spice level?

Of course! If you love heat, bump up the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of chili powder. For a milder version (especially for kids), simply reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.

What if my sauce is too thick or too thin?

If it’s too thick, stir in a splash more broth or cream until you reach your ideal consistency. If it’s too thin, let the pasta simmer uncovered for a minute or two more, stirring until it thickens up beautifully.

Final Thoughts

With its comforting flavors and weeknight-friendly ease, One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta truly deserves a spot in your regular recipe rotation. Give it a try and let it become your go-to when you’re hungry for something special but simple—you’ll be amazed at just how good and effortless homemade pasta can be!

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