Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the richness of cream with the tanginess of tomatoes, all cooked in one pot for minimal cleanup.

Kate Phillips

Created by

Kate Phillips

Last updated on 2025-12-21T09:16:00.538Z

This dish is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. It requires minimal ingredients and effort while delivering rich flavors that everyone will love.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Creamy texture that comforts your soul
  • Rich tomato flavor that bursts with freshness
  • Quick and easy cleanup with just one pot

The Perfect Comfort Food

There's something incredibly comforting about a creamy pasta dish, especially when it’s made with fresh ingredients. This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta brings together the richness of heavy cream and the bright acidity of tomatoes, creating a harmonious blend that warms the soul. Whether you're cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner with friends, this dish is sure to impress while keeping the mood relaxed and inviting.

The one-pot preparation not only simplifies the cooking process but also enhances the flavors. As the pasta cooks, it absorbs the savory broth and the tangy tomatoes, creating a cohesive dish that is both satisfying and delicious. Plus, there's nothing quite like the aroma of sautéed onions and garlic wafting through your kitchen, setting the stage for a delightful meal.

Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner

On busy weeknights, finding the time to cook a wholesome meal can be challenging. This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is designed for those moments when you want something quick yet delicious. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delightful dinner on the table in about 30 minutes.

The simplicity of this recipe makes it accessible for cooks of all levels. Even if you're not an experienced chef, you can whip this up with confidence. The dish allows for flexibility, too—feel free to add your favorite vegetables or protein to make it your own. It's a versatile base that adapts to your culinary desires.

Perfect for Meal Prepping

If you're looking to meal prep for the week ahead, this creamy tomato pasta is an excellent choice. It stores well in the refrigerator and can easily be reheated for a quick lunch or dinner. Simply divide the pasta into individual portions and store in airtight containers. When you're ready to eat, a quick reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop will bring it back to life.

Additionally, this dish is a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you may have. Spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini can be sautéed along with the onions and garlic for added nutrition and flavor. By incorporating a variety of ingredients, you not only enhance the dish but also keep your meal prep exciting and diverse.

Ingredients

Ingredients

For the Pasta

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Parmesan cheese for serving

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Instructions

Cook the Onion and Garlic

In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Add the penne pasta, diced tomatoes, heavy cream, vegetable broth, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine all ingredients.

Cook the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked al dente and the sauce has thickened.

Serve

Remove from heat. Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Enjoy your creamy tomato pasta as a comforting meal any day of the week!

Ingredient Substitutions

One of the best aspects of cooking is the ability to adapt recipes to suit your taste or dietary needs. If you're looking for a lighter version of this dish, consider substituting heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream. These options will still provide a creamy texture without the extra calories.

For those who prefer whole grains, you can easily swap out regular penne pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Just be mindful of cooking times, as different types of pasta may require adjustments to ensure they reach the perfect al dente texture. This recipe is all about making it your own while still enjoying a delicious result.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad or garlic bread. A simple arugula salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. Garlic bread, on the other hand, is always a crowd-pleaser and perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

Don't forget the finishing touches! A sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, can brighten the dish and add a burst of flavor. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can also enhance the overall taste. These small additions can make a big difference in the presentation and enjoyment of your meal.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe; just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use vegan cheese or omit cheese for a dairy-free version.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas would make great additions.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the richness of cream with the tanginess of tomatoes, all cooked in one pot for minimal cleanup.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time30 minutes

Created by: Kate Phillips

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Pasta

  1. 12 oz penne pasta
  2. 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  3. 1 cup heavy cream
  4. 1 onion, diced
  5. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  6. 2 cups vegetable broth
  7. 1 tsp dried basil
  8. Salt and pepper to taste
  9. Parmesan cheese for serving

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 02

Add the penne pasta, diced tomatoes, heavy cream, vegetable broth, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine all ingredients.

Step 03

Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked al dente and the sauce has thickened.

Step 04

Remove from heat. Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 400 kcal
  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 10g