If you are searching for a comforting yet effortless meal, this One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe is guaranteed to win your heart. Combining the tangy sweetness of tomatoes, the richness of cream, and the satisfying texture of perfectly cooked pasta, all made in a single pan, this dish offers a symphony of flavors with minimal cleanup. It’s quick, cozy, and absolutely delicious—a true weeknight hero that feels special enough for guests or casual enough for any day you crave something soothing and scrumptious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together to create a deliciously balanced dish, with every item playing a key role in building taste, texture, and color. From aromatic garlic to velvety cream and fragrant herbs, simplicity delivers exceptional flavor here.
- 8 ounces pasta: Choose your favorite type; this is the base that soaks up all the creamy, tomatoey goodness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a fruity richness and helps soften the onions beautifully.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Provides a sweet, savory foundation when cooked until translucent.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a sharp and inviting aroma that enhances every bite.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes: The star ingredient delivering fresh, bright tomato flavor with its juicy texture.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Offers an herbal hint that pairs wonderfully with tomatoes.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Gives an earthy, slightly peppery undertone to the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds a subtle kick without overpowering the dish.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, silky texture that makes this pasta irresistibly creamy.
- 1 cup vegetable broth: Infuses depth and helps cook the pasta perfectly in one pot.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melted into the sauce for a savory, nutty finish.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all the flavors and ties everything together.
- Black pepper to taste: Adds a gentle warmth and earthiness.
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish: A vibrant, fresh touch that brightens the presentation and the palate.
How to Make One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat, then add olive oil. When the oil is shimmering, toss in the chopped onion to sweat gently. Cooking the onion until soft and translucent brings out a natural sweetness that forms a comforting base for your sauce.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomatoes
Once the onions are tender, stir in the minced garlic. Cook it for just a minute to release its fragrance without burning. Pour in the diced tomatoes along with all their juice. This splash of vibrant red instantly wakes up the senses and promises a tangy twist in every bite.
Step 3: Season the Sauce
Sprinkle in dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes, stirring gently to distribute their flavors evenly. Season with salt and black pepper according to your taste. These herbs and spices give the sauce a classic Italian flare that’s both familiar and comforting.
Step 4: Add Broth and Pasta
Pour the vegetable broth into the skillet and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Then, add your pasta, making sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Cover the pan, and let the pasta cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep it from sticking and to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Stir in Cream and Cheese
Once the pasta is tender yet firm to the bite, stir in the heavy cream and allow the mixture to simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat, add the grated Parmesan cheese, and stir until melted and smooth. The sauce will be luxuriously rich and velvety, coating each strand perfectly.
Step 6: Final Touch and Serve
Taste your creamy tomato sauce and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh basil leaves to add a pop of color and a burst of refreshing flavor. This final step brings everything together, making your meal ready to be savored.
How to Serve One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil is the classic garnish for this dish, imparting a fragrant herbal note and vibrant green contrast to the red sauce. You can also sprinkle additional Parmesan or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for texture and a little extra flavor boost.
Side Dishes
This creamy tomato pasta pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables for a wholesome, balanced meal. Crusty garlic bread is another excellent option, perfect for mopping up every bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta in hollowed-out tomatoes or mini pumpkin bowls during fall gatherings. Layering it in a ceramic dish and topping with fresh herbs and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil makes it ready to impress at your next dinner party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover creamy tomato pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keeping the sauce slightly thick helps maintain its creamy texture when cooled.
Freezing
You can freeze this pasta, but keep in mind that the cream may separate slightly upon thawing. To freeze, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container and seal tightly. It will keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to help restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Stir frequently to heat evenly and prevent sticking.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! Whether penne, fusilli, or even broken spaghetti, the One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe is versatile. Just adjust cooking time accordingly based on the pasta shape.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Swap out the heavy cream for a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream, and replace Parmesan with a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast to keep it creamy and flavorful.
How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth that enhances the sauce without overwhelming it. You can always reduce or omit them if you prefer a milder taste.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even chickpeas make wonderful additions, boosting the meal’s heartiness while complementing the creamy tomato base.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick after cooking?
Simply stir in a little more vegetable broth or cream while reheating to loosen the sauce and achieve your desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
This One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe feels like a warm hug on a plate—simple, satisfying, and made for sharing. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting without fussing over too many pots and pans. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe rotation.
Print
One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 20m
- Total Time: 0h 30m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta is a quick and delicious weeknight meal, combining tender pasta with a rich tomato-based cream sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan. All cooked in a single skillet for easy cleanup and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium heat to warm up before adding ingredients.
- Heat olive oil: Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet and let it heat for about a minute until shimmering.
- Sauté onions: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute more, taking care not to let it burn.
- Add tomatoes and seasonings: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, then sprinkle the dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
- Season: Add salt and black pepper to taste, mixing well.
- Add broth and simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer on medium heat.
- Add pasta: Submerge the pasta into the simmering sauce, ensuring it’s evenly covered.
- Cook pasta: Cover the skillet with a lid and cook the pasta for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and maintaining a gentle simmer.
- Incorporate cream: Once pasta is al dente, stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
- Remove from heat and add cheese: Take the skillet off the heat, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully combined into the sauce.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.
- Garnish and serve: Top with fresh basil leaves and serve the creamy tomato pasta hot for a flavorful, comforting meal.
Notes
- Stir regularly during cooking to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.
- Use gluten-free pasta if you require a gluten-free option.
- For extra protein, consider adding cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes to your liking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
