One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
This One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe is both quick to prepare and satisfying. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—the pasta cooks right in the sauce, allowing it to absorb all the delicious flavors. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this creamy tomato pasta will impress everyone around the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With only one pot needed, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and creamy cheese creates a rich flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding vegetables or proteins like chicken or shrimp based on what you have at home.
- Kid-Friendly: This creamy pasta is appealing to kids and adults alike, making it a perfect family meal.
- Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pot means less time spent washing dishes after the meal.
Tools and Preparation
To make this One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta effectively, a few essential tools will help streamline the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: A spacious pot allows for even cooking of the pasta while keeping all ingredients contained.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface, ensuring every ingredient mixes well.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right balance of flavors in your dish.
Ingredients
This One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is so quick to make – and you only need a single pot! Even the pasta cooks right in the sauce for easy cleanup.
Pantry Essentials
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- ⅓ cup sundried tomatoes (chopped) (optional – I love it but my kids refuse to eat it)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Liquid Base
- 3 cups chicken stock or water
- 1 (15-oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
Pasta and Cheese
- 1 (12-oz) box short pasta shapes (spirals or bow ties work great)
- salt & pepper (to taste)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- ¼ cup cream cheese (OR ricotta, mascarpone… whatever you have on hand! Use more for extra creaminess.)
Garnish
- chopped flat leaf parsley (optional)
How to Make One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Step 1: Sauté Ingredients
Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Sauté the onion, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes until starting to soften, about 2 minutes.
Add the tomato paste and Italian seasoning; cook for 1 more minute.
Step 2: Add Liquids and Pasta
Pour the chicken stock into the pan.
Scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pot.
Add the can of diced tomatoes and pasta; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Bring everything to a boil.
Reduce heat to a simmer.
Cook until pasta is done, about 10-15 minutes. If it looks dry during cooking, add a little extra broth as needed.
Step 4: Add Cheeses
Remove from heat.
Stir in the Parmesan and cream cheese until melted.
If desired, add chopped parsley for garnish.
Let sit for 3-4 minutes before serving immediately.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta! This recipe not only tastes amazing but also makes mealtime effortless with its simple preparation and cleanup.
How to Serve One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
This One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance your meal experience and cater to different tastes.
With Fresh Herbs
- Basil – A sprinkle of fresh basil on top adds a fragrant note.
- Parsley – Chopped flat-leaf parsley gives a pop of color and freshness.
Add Protein
- Grilled Chicken – Sliced grilled chicken breast makes this dish heartier.
- Shrimp – Toss in sautéed shrimp for a seafood twist.
Pair with Bread
- Garlic Bread – Serve warm garlic bread on the side for dipping.
- Crusty Baguette – A fresh baguette is perfect for soaking up the sauce.
Top with Cheese
- Feta Cheese – Crumbled feta adds a tangy flavor contrast.
- Mozzarella – Melted mozzarella creates a gooey, comforting topping.
How to Perfect One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
To ensure your One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Quality Ingredients – Fresh ingredients will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
- Monitor Cooking Time – Keep an eye on the pasta; overcooking can lead to mushiness.
- Adjust Liquid as Needed – If the pasta looks dry, add more broth during cooking for creaminess.
- Experiment with Cheeses – Try different cheeses like gouda or cheddar for varied flavors.
Best Side Dishes for One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Pairing side dishes with your One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Mixed Green Salad – A fresh salad balances the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted veggies add texture and nutrition.
- Steamed Broccoli – Simple steamed broccoli offers a healthy contrast.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil complement the dish beautifully.
- Antipasto Platter – A variety of olives, cured meats, and cheese provides a flavorful appetizer.
- Garlic Knots – Soft garlic knots make for a fun and tasty side that everyone loves.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s final taste and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overcooking the pasta: If you let the pasta cook too long, it can become mushy. Keep an eye on it and test for doneness around the 10-minute mark.
- Not seasoning adequately: Skipping salt or pepper can lead to bland pasta. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning for optimal flavor.
- Ignoring liquid levels: If the pasta looks dry while cooking, it may need more liquid. Always keep extra broth or water handy.
- Using low-quality tomatoes: The flavor of your dish relies on good-quality tomatoes. Choose fresh or canned tomatoes with no added preservatives for the best results.
- Skipping the cheese: Cheese adds creaminess and depth. Don’t omit it; try different types like ricotta or mascarpone for varying flavors.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It can last up to 3-5 days in the fridge.
Freezing One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
- Place in a freezer-safe container.
- It will keep well for about 2-3 months.
Reheating One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil until heated through, about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen it up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta:
Can I add protein to One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta?
Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even beans to make it heartier.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! This dish is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat.
How can I make One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta spicier?
You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking for an extra kick.
What other vegetables can I include?
Feel free to toss in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes! Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free options, adjusting cooking time as needed.
Final Thoughts
One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. With options for customization—like adding vegetables or proteins—it’s perfect for any family meal. Give it a try and enjoy a cozy dish that everyone will love!
One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delightful, hassle-free meal that brings rich flavors to your dinner table in just 30 minutes. This comforting dish features pasta cooked directly in a savory tomato sauce, allowing it to absorb all the delicious flavors. With its creamy texture and the perfect balance of ingredients, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with family and friends. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins for an even more satisfying dish. Enjoy minimal cleanup while savoring a bowl of hearty pasta that will impress everyone.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- ⅓ cup sundried tomatoes (chopped) (optional)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 3 cups chicken stock or water
- 1 (15-oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
- 1 (12-oz) box short pasta shapes (spirals or bow ties)
- salt & pepper (to taste)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- ¼ cup cream cheese (OR ricotta, mascarpone)
- chopped flat leaf parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion, minced garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes until softened, about 2 minutes. Stir in tomato paste and Italian seasoning; cook for 1 additional minute.
- Add chicken stock, scraping the bottom of the pot for flavor. Incorporate canned diced tomatoes and short pasta, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil; reduce heat to simmer and cook until pasta is tender, about 10-15 minutes. Add more broth if needed.
- Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan and cream cheese until melted. Let sit for 3-4 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
