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 oz pasta (penne or fusilli); 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delightful dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it's a family favorite!

Created by

Harper Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-22T22:39:36.451Z

This creamy tomato pasta is a quick and satisfying meal that comes together in just one pot. The rich flavors of tomatoes combined with cream create a luscious sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. It's a dish that brings comfort and joy to your table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich tomato flavor with a creamy finish
Quick and easy cleanup with just one pot
Customizable with your favorite veggies or proteins

      

A Quick and Satisfying Meal

On those busy weeknights when time is of the essence, this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta shines as a go-to recipe. With just one pot to worry about, you can whip up a delicious meal that the whole family will enjoy without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a convenient option that doesn't compromise on taste, making it a perfect choice for dinner after a long day.

The creamy tomato sauce envelops the pasta, providing a rich and comforting experience with every bite. This dish is not only satisfying but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to incorporate your favorite vegetables or proteins, adapting it to your family's preferences.

Perfect for Customization

One of the best aspects of this creamy tomato pasta is its adaptability. Whether you want to sneak in some fresh spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or grilled chicken, the recipe accommodates a variety of mix-ins. You can easily make it vegetarian-friendly or add a protein boost, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy a personalized version.

Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes too! While penne and fusilli work wonderfully, you can also try farfalle, rotini, or even whole-grain pasta for a healthier twist. The possibilities are endless, making this dish a staple in your weekly meal rotation.

Tips for the Best Results

To achieve the best flavor in your Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta, opt for high-quality canned tomatoes. San Marzano tomatoes are known for their rich taste and can elevate your sauce to restaurant-level quality. Additionally, using fresh garlic and onions will enhance the overall flavor profile, making your dish even more delightful.

Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as you cook. Every palate is different, so feel free to add a pinch more salt or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a hint of heat. This attention to detail will make your dish truly stand out!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

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

Instructions

Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Combine Ingredients

Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.

Cook the Pasta

Add the pasta and 3 cups of water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally.

Serve

Once the pasta is cooked, remove from heat. Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your creamy tomato pasta!

This meal is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutritional Benefits

This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta not only pleases the palate but also packs in some nutritional benefits. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is known to support heart health. Additionally, the heavy cream adds a source of calcium and healthy fats, contributing to a well-rounded meal.

By incorporating vegetables or lean proteins, you can transform this dish into a balanced meal. Adding spinach, for example, can boost your intake of vitamins A and C, while grilled chicken can provide lean protein, making it a wholesome option for the entire family.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers? No problem! This creamy tomato pasta stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra cream to loosen the sauce if needed. This way, you can enjoy the flavors again without sacrificing quality.

For meal prep enthusiasts, consider making a double batch. This dish freezes beautifully, allowing you to have quick meals ready to go. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers, and enjoy a taste of homemade comfort food anytime!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ What can I add to this recipe?

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or proteins such as chicken or shrimp.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a plant-based pasta.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.