Creamy Tomato Pasta One Pot: Easy Recipe & Quick Cleanup

Creamy Tomato Pasta One Pot: the weeknight dinner hero you’ve been waiting for! Imagine twirling perfectly cooked pasta, coated in a luscious, vibrant tomato sauce, all made in a single pot. No mountains of dishes, just pure, unadulterated comfort food ready in under 30 minutes. Sounds too good to be true? I promise you, it’s not!

While the exact origins of tomato pasta are debated, its roots are firmly planted in Italian-American cuisine. The ingenious “one-pot” method, however, is a more modern adaptation, born from the desire for quick, easy, and delicious meals in our increasingly busy lives. It’s a testament to how classic flavors can be reimagined for contemporary kitchens.

What makes this Creamy Tomato Pasta One Pot so irresistible? It’s the symphony of flavors, the satisfying chew of the pasta, and the creamy richness that envelops every bite. The convenience is a major draw, of course. Who wouldn’t love a flavorful, filling meal with minimal cleanup? But beyond the practicality, it’s the sheer deliciousness that keeps people coming back for more. The sweetness of the tomatoes, balanced by the subtle tang of garlic and the luxurious creaminess, creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Get ready to ditch the multiple pots and pans and embrace the simplicity and flavor of this incredible dish!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Preparing the One-Pot Wonder

Okay, let’s get started! This creamy tomato pasta is seriously one of the easiest and most satisfying meals you can make. The best part? Minimal cleanup! Everything cooks together in one pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights. I promise, you’ll love it!

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. We want those onions nice and sweet!
2. Add the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The aroma should be heavenly at this point!
3. Introduce the Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel). Give everything a good stir to combine. The Rotel adds a nice little kick, but you can omit it if you prefer a milder flavor.
4. Pour in the Broth: Add the vegetable broth (or chicken broth) to the pot. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients. Make sure to scrape up any bits that may be stuck to the bottom of the pot – that’s where all the flavor is!
5. Season Generously: Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more seasoning later, so start with a little and adjust as needed.
6. Add the Pasta: Add the pasta to the pot, making sure it’s submerged in the liquid. If necessary, add a little more broth to ensure the pasta is fully covered. This is crucial for even cooking!

The Cooking Process

Now comes the waiting game, but trust me, it’s worth it! We’re going to let everything simmer and meld together until the pasta is perfectly cooked and the sauce has thickened.

7. Bring to a Boil, Then Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. The cooking time may vary depending on the type of pasta you use, so check it frequently.
8. Check for Doneness: After about 15 minutes, check the pasta for doneness. It should be tender but still slightly firm to the bite (al dente). If the pasta is not cooked through, continue to simmer for a few more minutes, checking periodically. If the sauce becomes too thick before the pasta is cooked, add a little more broth.
9. Stir in the Cream and Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until well combined and the cheese is melted. The cream will make the sauce incredibly rich and decadent, and the Parmesan cheese adds a lovely salty, nutty flavor.

Serving and Enjoying

The moment we’ve all been waiting for! Time to serve up this delicious creamy tomato pasta and enjoy the fruits of our labor. Get ready for some serious comfort food!

10. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the pasta into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra grated Parmesan cheese. The fresh basil adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that complements the rich tomato sauce perfectly.
11. Serve Immediately: Serve the pasta immediately while it’s hot and creamy. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Tips and Variations

Want to customize this recipe to your liking? Here are a few ideas:

• Add Protein: Add cooked chicken, sausage, shrimp, or ground beef to the pot along with the pasta for a heartier meal.
• Spice it Up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for a spicier dish. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Add Vegetables: Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to the pot along with the onions.
• Use Different Cheese: Substitute the Parmesan cheese with mozzarella, provolone, or Asiago cheese.
• Make it Vegan: Use plant-based cream and vegan Parmesan cheese to make this dish vegan-friendly.
• Herb it Up: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley.

Storage Instructions

Leftover creamy tomato pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through, or reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. The sauce may thicken upon refrigeration, so adding a little liquid will help restore its creamy consistency. I don’t recommend freezing this dish, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 500-600 per serving
• Fat: 25-35 grams
• Protein: 20-25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 60-70 grams

Enjoy your delicious and easy creamy tomato pasta! I hope you love it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Creamy Tomato Pasta One Pot recipe is truly a game-changer for busy weeknights or anyone craving a comforting, flavorful meal without the fuss. I know, I know, one-pot pasta sounds almost too good to be true, but trust me, the magic is real. The pasta cooks perfectly al dente, soaking up all the delicious tomato-y goodness, while the cream adds a richness that elevates the entire dish.

What makes this recipe a must-try? It’s the simplicity, the speed, and the incredible flavor payoff. You’re looking at minimal cleanup, maximum flavor, and a happy belly in under 30 minutes. Forget slaving over multiple pots and pans; this one-pot wonder streamlines the entire cooking process, leaving you with more time to relax and enjoy your meal. Plus, the ingredients are readily available, so you probably have most of them in your pantry already!

But the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to get creative and customize it to your liking. For a vegetarian twist, add roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant. If you’re a meat lover, consider adding cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, or shredded chicken. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes will add a touch of heat, while a squeeze of lemon juice will brighten the flavors.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Serve this creamy tomato pasta with a side of garlic bread for dipping into the sauce.
* Top with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
* Add a dollop of ricotta cheese or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra creaminess and flavor.
* For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
* To make it even more decadent, stir in a tablespoon of mascarpone cheese at the end.
* If you want to add some greens, spinach or kale wilted in during the last few minutes of cooking works perfectly.
* Consider adding a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans for added protein and fiber.
* For a richer flavor, use fire-roasted tomatoes instead of regular diced tomatoes.
* If you are feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of vodka to the sauce for a classic vodka sauce variation.

I truly believe that this Creamy Tomato Pasta One Pot recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or any time you’re craving a comforting and delicious meal.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to experience the magic of one-pot pasta. I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try this recipe? What variations did you make? What did you think? Share your photos and comments below. I can’t wait to see your culinary creations and hear your feedback. Happy cooking! Let me know if you have any questions, and I’ll do my best to help. Enjoy!

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