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 penne pasta; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh basil, for garnish; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home.

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2025-12-21T07:20:53.637Z

This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is not just a meal; it's a comforting experience. Perfectly cooked pasta mingles with a luscious tomato sauce, creating a dish that is both satisfying and simple to prepare.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich tomato flavor with a hint of creaminess
Minimal cleanup with just one pot required
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights

      

A Perfect Weeknight Dinner

When you're short on time but still want a delicious meal, this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is your go-to recipe. With minimal prep and cook time, you can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. It's the ultimate comfort food that doesn't compromise on taste, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet quick.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Since everything cooks in one pot, you can enjoy a stress-free cooking experience. This means less time spent scrubbing pots and pans, allowing you to relax and enjoy your meal with family or friends. Plus, the creamy tomato sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Flavorful and Satisfying

The rich tomato flavor combined with a hint of creaminess creates a satisfying dish that will please even the pickiest eaters. The use of diced tomatoes brings a fresh, vibrant taste, while the heavy cream enriches the sauce, making it indulgent without being too heavy. This balance of flavors is what sets this recipe apart from other pasta dishes.

Adding Italian seasoning enhances the overall taste, bringing in aromatic herbs that elevate the dish. Feel free to customize the seasoning to suit your preferences, whether that means adding a pinch of chili flakes for heat or extra herbs for freshness. The possibilities are endless, and your taste buds will thank you!

Easy Customizations

One of the best aspects of this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is its versatility. You can easily add your favorite vegetables to the mix, such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Simply toss them in when you add the pasta, and they will cook perfectly in the same pot. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds more color and texture to the dish.

For protein lovers, consider incorporating grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas to make it a heartier meal. These additions can transform the dish into a complete dinner, ensuring that everyone leaves the table satisfied. The adaptability of this recipe makes it a family favorite, as you can tailor it to suit everyone's tastes.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil, for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smoother.

Instructions

Sauté Garlic

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Add Ingredients

Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Cook Pasta

Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the penne pasta. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.

Serve

Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes. Serve garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your delicious, creamy pasta dish!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, this creamy tomato pasta stores wonderfully. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. This way, you can easily defrost and enjoy a quick meal whenever you crave it. Just remember that the texture of the pasta may change slightly after freezing, but the flavors will still be delicious!

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta with a simple side salad. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta, balancing the meal beautifully. You can also serve it alongside garlic bread for an extra indulgent touch.

For beverage pairings, a crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, works wonders with the creamy tomato sauce. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a twist of lemon can refresh your palate and enhance the meal's flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms would all be great additions.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this pasta can be made ahead of time and reheated for a quick meal.