Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

Name: Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 8 ounces of pasta; 1 can (14 ounces) of crushed tomatoes; 1 cup of heavy cream; 1 tablespoon of olive oil; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon of dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Transform your dinner routine with this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta recipe. Packed with rich flavors and made in just one pot, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Creamy, comforting, and oh-so-delicious, it combines tangy tomatoes with a blend of herbs and pasta, making it a family favorite. Enjoy the convenience of minimal cleanup while savoring every bite of this satisfying meal.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-11-12T04:05:54.656Z

This easy one pot creamy tomato pasta is not just a dish; it's a solution for those hectic weeknights. Watch as the pasta absorbs the rich, tangy flavors of the tomatoes and herbs, creating a symphony of taste in every forkful.

Perfect for Busy Weeknights

When it comes to weeknight dinners, time is often of the essence. This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is designed with busy lives in mind. You can whip up this delightful meal in just under 30 minutes, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones rather than stuck in the kitchen. Since it only requires one pot, cleanup is a breeze, making it perfect for those days when you're short on time.

The simplicity of this recipe means you don’t need to compromise on flavor. The marriage of the creamy sauce and tangy tomatoes creates a dish that feels indulgent without requiring hours of preparation. This makes it an ideal option for unexpected guests or a last-minute dinner decision. Once you try it, you’ll find it quickly becomes a go-to for your family.

Flavorful Ingredients

Every component of this dish plays a vital role in delivering a rich, satisfying flavor. The combination of crushed tomatoes and heavy cream forms a luxurious base that clings beautifully to the pasta. Adding garlic and dried basil not only enhances the dish but also fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas that will draw everyone to the table.

Using fresh ingredients is key in elevating your pasta dish. Choose high-quality canned tomatoes for the best base flavor. You can also consider adding fresh herbs towards the end of the cooking process to brighten up the dish even more. By customizing this recipe with your favorite ingredients, you can make it your own while keeping the essence of creamy tomato perfection.

A Family Favorite

One of the best things about this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is its universal appeal. Children and adults alike will enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture, making it a hit at the dinner table. It’s versatile enough to pair with various proteins or vegetables for those looking to add a nutritional boost.

You can easily adapt this recipe to accommodate dietary preferences as well. For a vegetarian version, you might consider adding spinach or zucchini. If you’re seeking a little extra protein, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp can be excellent additions. With its comforting qualities and adaptability, this dish is bound to become a household favorite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 ounces of pasta
1 can (14 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
1 cup of heavy cream
1 tablespoon of olive oil
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon of dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all your ingredients before you start for a smoother cooking experience.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, and pasta. Stir well to combine.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat and cover, cooking for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add Seasoning

Once the pasta is cooked al dente, add the dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired, and enjoy your meal!

Serving Suggestions

Serve this One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal. The warmth and richness of the pasta pairs beautifully with the crispy texture of the bread, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. A crisp green salad would also complement this dish well, adding a refreshing contrast with its crunchy vegetables and zesty dressing.

For those looking for a little more kick, elevate your dish with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving. This adds a delightful heat that balances out the creaminess of the sauce, creating layers of flavor. Don't forget to garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves for an appealing presentation!

Storage Tips

Storing leftovers from this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is simple and convenient. Place any uneaten pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheating is easy—just warm up on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce's original consistency, or microwave it until heated through.

If you want to prepare this dish in advance, consider cooking the pasta a little less than al dente and then cooling it immediately. This way, when it’s time to finish cooking, it will absorb the flavors of the sauce without becoming mushy. No matter how you store it, this meal is sure to be just as tasty the next day.

Customization Ideas

Get creative with this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables. Consider throwing in bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli to boost its nutritional value. Sauté these alongside the garlic to infuse their flavors into the dish, creating a more diverse taste profile.

For those who love cheese, mix in some grated parmesan or mozzarella for an extra layer of creaminess and flavor. You can also swap the heavy cream for a lighter option, such as half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative, making this dish suitable for various dietary needs while keeping it delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe.