Looking for a quick, satisfying dinner without the mess? This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is your perfect go-to recipe. With minimal prep and only one pan to clean, it’s a creamy, flavorful dish that brings comfort to your table in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this meal is a lifesaver on busy weeknights.
Ingredients
To prepare this delicious One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta, you’ll need the following:
Main Ingredients:
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
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1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
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2 tablespoons tomato paste
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2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
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1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
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300g (10 oz) penne or your favorite pasta
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Required Kitchen Tools
To make this one pot pasta dish efficiently, you’ll need:
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Large deep skillet or Dutch oven
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Wooden spoon or spatula
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Ladle (for serving)
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Grater (for fresh Parmesan)
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Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Tomato Base
Add the tomato paste and stir to coat the onions and garlic. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, chili flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Add the Pasta and Broth
Pour the broth into the pan and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Add the pasta directly to the pot. Stir well to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for about 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Make it Creamy
Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the sauce to thicken into a creamy consistency.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat, garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley, and serve hot. For extra flair, top with an additional sprinkle of Parmesan.
Helpful Tips for Making or Serving
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Use short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni for best results—they cook evenly and soak up the sauce beautifully.
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Make it dairy-free by using coconut milk and a dairy-free cheese alternative.
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Boost the protein by adding pre-cooked chicken, shrimp, or canned chickpeas.
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Spice it up with a pinch of smoked paprika or extra chili flakes.
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Storage tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
Approximate Nutritional Value (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)
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Calories: 420
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Protein: 12g
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Carbohydrates: 50g
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Fat: 18g
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Saturated Fat: 9g
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Cholesterol: 45mg
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Fiber: 4g
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Sugar: 7g
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Sodium: 620mg
Note: Nutrition may vary depending on specific brands and added ingredients.
Conclusion
This One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is more than just a simple weeknight dinner—it’s a flavorful, fuss-free dish that satisfies every craving with its creamy texture and tangy tomato richness. Best of all? Cleanup is a breeze. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe promises a warm, comforting meal with minimal effort.
Save this recipe for your next quick dinner idea, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family who love easy, delicious meals!
