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; 1 cup heavy cream; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a comforting and delicious dish that combines the richness of creamy sauce with the tanginess of tomatoes, all cooked in one pot for minimal cleanup.

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2025-12-23T03:18:34.002Z

This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy tomato sauce coats the pasta beautifully, making every bite a delight!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy tomato sauce that clings perfectly to pasta
One pot means easy cleanup
Quick to prepare, ready in just 30 minutes
Perfect for family dinners or meal prep

      

The Comfort of Creamy Tomato Pasta

There's something inherently comforting about a creamy tomato pasta dish. The rich texture of heavy cream combined with the bright acidity of tomatoes creates a harmony that is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a perfect representation of that comfort food experience, making it an ideal choice for chilly evenings or when you need a quick, satisfying meal.

What makes this dish even more appealing is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delightful meal that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether you're cooking for your family or just looking to treat yourself, this pasta dish is sure to please.

Ideal for Meal Prep

Not only is this recipe quick to prepare, but it also holds up beautifully for meal prep. Making a large batch of this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta allows you to enjoy delicious lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just store individual portions in airtight containers, and you'll have ready-to-eat meals that are full of flavor and nutrition.

Reheating is a breeze; just warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave, and you'll have a comforting meal ready in minutes. The creamy sauce stays rich and flavorful, ensuring that you won't feel like you're settling for leftovers.

Customizable and Versatile

One of the best aspects of this creamy tomato pasta is its versatility. While the base recipe is delicious on its own, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Consider adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also incorporate protein by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices as well. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick, or try swapping dried herbs for fresh ones if you have them on hand. The possibilities are endless, making this dish a canvas for your culinary creativity.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

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

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make this dish even heartier!

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Combine Ingredients

Add the penne pasta, diced tomatoes (with juices), heavy cream, vegetable broth, dried basil, and oregano to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cook the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the pasta is cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

This dish is best enjoyed immediately, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Tips for Perfect Pasta

To achieve perfectly cooked pasta, remember to salt your water generously before adding the penne. This enhances the flavor of the pasta itself. Additionally, keep an eye on the cooking time, as different brands may have varying cooking durations. Stirring occasionally will help prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

After cooking, if you find the sauce is too thick, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up. This way, you'll maintain that creamy consistency without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

For an added touch, garnish your creamy tomato pasta with freshly chopped basil or parsley before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of freshness that complements the rich sauce beautifully.

Pair this dish with a simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread to round out your meal. A light vinaigrette salad can balance the richness of the pasta, making for a delightful dining experience.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce's creamy texture. This will help revive any thickness that may have developed during storage.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Just ensure the pasta is completely cooled before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When you're ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned for a quick meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Certainly! You can use plant-based cream and vegetable broth to make it vegan.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Cooked chicken, shrimp, or even beans can be added for extra protein.