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 servings
Ingredients: 12 ounces penne pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delicious and hassle-free meal that can be made in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Created by

Lauren Mitchell

Last updated on 2025-12-23T17:39:34.224Z

This creamy tomato pasta is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor. Using just one pot means less cleanup, making it a win-win for any home cook.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy sauce that envelops every bite
Quick and easy preparation with minimal cleanup
Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite veggies

      

A Quick and Satisfying Meal

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can be a challenge. This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is the perfect solution for those busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With everything cooked in a single pot, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy more time with family or relax after a long day.

The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its simplicity but also in its adaptability. You can easily adjust the ingredients to cater to your family's preferences or dietary needs. Whether you prefer gluten-free pasta, a dairy-free alternative, or simply want to add more vegetables, this recipe can accommodate your wishes without compromising flavor.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This creamy tomato pasta is versatile enough to be served on various occasions. Whether it’s a casual dinner at home, a potluck with friends, or even a romantic date night, this dish will impress your guests. Pair it with a crisp salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal that feels special yet remains easy to prepare.

Additionally, the recipe is a great way to introduce kids to cooking. With minimal steps and ingredients, it encourages them to get involved in the kitchen, making mealtime a fun and educational experience. Plus, they will love devouring the creamy, tomato-rich pasta they helped create!

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta stores beautifully in the refrigerator. Just transfer it to an airtight container and enjoy it within 3-4 days. The flavors continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day. Reheating is simple—just warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. This way, you have a quick meal ready to go whenever you need it. Just remember to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above for a comforting meal that feels like it was just made fresh.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 ounces penne pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add the Tomatoes and Broth

Add the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer.

Cook the Pasta

Stir in the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes, until al dente.

Make it Creamy

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to heat through for a couple more minutes.

Serve and Garnish

Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil. Enjoy!

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread.

Nutritional Benefits

This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Tomatoes are a rich source of vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining good health. They are also packed with antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

The addition of heavy cream lends a creamy texture and a dose of calcium, vital for strong bones. You can also swap out the heavy cream for a lighter option, such as coconut milk or cashew cream, to create a healthier variation without sacrificing flavor.

Customization Ideas

One of the best aspects of this creamy tomato pasta is its versatility. Feel free to customize the dish according to your taste preferences. Add in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to boost the nutritional profile and add a pop of color. You can also toss in some cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein.

Herbs and spices can also enhance the flavor of the dish. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for an extra layer of flavor. Experimenting with different ingredients can make this recipe a new favorite every time!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Yes, whole wheat pasta can be used. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ Is there a dairy-free option?

You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this pasta dish?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked pasta for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.