One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
This One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner. It’s quick, easy, and requires only a single pot for cooking. The pasta simmers right in the rich, creamy tomato sauce, making it incredibly flavorful while ensuring minimal cleanup. This dish is great for family dinners, gatherings, or even as a comforting meal when you’re short on time. Enjoy this delightful blend of ingredients that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pot means fewer dishes to wash afterward.
- Deliciously Creamy: The combination of cream cheese and Parmesan creates a rich sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
- Kid-Friendly: The flavors are mild and appealing to children, making it a fantastic family meal.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare this One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta, having the right tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the pasta and sauce together in one pot without overflow.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while ensuring even cooking.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Help achieve accurate ingredient amounts for perfect flavor balance.
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.
For the Base
- 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
For Cooking
- 3 cups chicken stock or water
- 1 (15-oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
- 1 (12-oz) box short pasta shapes (spirals or bow ties work great)
Seasoning & Garnish
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- ¼ cup cream cheese (or ricotta, mascarpone)
- Chopped flat leaf parsley (optional)
How to Make One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Sauté until they start to soften, about 2 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste and Italian seasoning; cook for an additional minute.
Step 2: Add Liquids and Pasta
- Pour in the chicken stock while scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the pot.
- Add the can of diced tomatoes along with their juices.
- Stir in your choice of short pasta shapes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- Bring everything to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Cook until the pasta is done, about 10-15 minutes.
- If needed, add extra broth if it looks too dry during cooking.
Step 4: Add Cheeses
- Remove from heat once cooked.
- Stir in both Parmesan cheese and cream cheese until melted combined.
- Optionally add chopped parsley for freshness.
- Let sit for 3-4 minutes before serving immediately.
This One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta will surely become a favorite at your table! Enjoy every creamy bite!
How to Serve One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.
Pair with Garlic Bread
- Garlic bread: A crunchy and buttery side that complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
Top with Fresh Basil
- Fresh basil: Adds a fragrant aroma and vibrant color, enhancing the dish’s overall appeal.
Sprinkle Extra Parmesan
- Extra Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of this cheese on top can elevate flavors, making the dish even richer.
Serve with a Side Salad
- Mixed green salad: A light salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
Add Protein
- Grilled chicken or shrimp: Incorporating protein makes it heartier and perfect for a filling meal.
How to Perfect One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
To achieve the best results with your One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta, consider these helpful tips.
- Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and good-quality olive oil enhance flavor.
- Adjust seasoning carefully: Taste as you go to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Keep an eye on cooking time to prevent mushiness.
- Consider adding veggies: Spinach or bell peppers can boost nutrition and flavor.
- Let it rest before serving: Allowing it to sit for a few minutes helps thicken and meld flavors.
- Experiment with cheeses: Mix different types of cheese for unique flavor profiles.
Best Side Dishes for One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Pairing sides with One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Caprese Salad: This fresh salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil adds a burst of flavor.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide a delightful crunch.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar complements the creamy pasta perfectly with its tangy dressing.
- Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, cured meats, and cheeses offers variety and enhances your dining experience.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds freshness without overpowering the main dish.
- Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil, this appetizer is perfect for sharing.
- Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve alongside spiralized zucchini for extra veggies.
- Cheesy Garlic Knots: These soft knots are perfect for dipping into any leftover sauce!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is simple, but some common mistakes can affect your results. Here’s what to watch for:
- Skipping the sauté step: Always start by sautéing the onions and garlic. This enhances flavor and prevents a bland dish.
- Not checking pasta doneness: Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks to ensure it’s al dente. Overcooked pasta can ruin the texture.
- Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste before serving! You may need to add more salt, pepper, or herbs for optimal flavor.
- Using low-quality canned tomatoes: Choose high-quality canned tomatoes for richer taste. They make a significant difference in this creamy dish.
- Rushing the resting time: Allow the pasta to sit after cooking. This helps thicken the sauce and intensifies flavors.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Let it cool before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- For best results, divide into single-serving portions.
Reheating One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warm.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth to reheat over low heat, stirring frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta that might help you perfect your dish.
What is One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta?
One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a quick and easy meal where pasta cooks in a rich tomato sauce, combining flavors in just one pot.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! Feel free to use any short pasta shape you prefer. Spirals or bow ties work great in this recipe.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply omit any meat ingredients and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a delicious vegetarian version of One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta.
What can I add for extra protein?
You can add cooked chicken, sausage, or even chickpeas for added protein. Stir them in at the end for a hearty meal.
Can I customize my One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or adjust cheese types based on your preference. Get creative!
Final Thoughts
One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is not only quick and easy but also versatile enough for family dinners or busy weeknights. You can customize it with various ingredients based on what you have at home. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its comforting flavors!
One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delightful weeknight meal that combines convenience and flavor in just one pot. This easy recipe features pasta simmered in a rich, creamy tomato sauce, making it not only satisfying but also incredibly simple to prepare.
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 work great)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- ¼ cup cream cheese (or ricotta, mascarpone)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the onion, garlic, and sundried tomatoes until softened.
- Stir in tomato paste and Italian seasoning; cook for one more minute.
- Add chicken stock and diced tomatoes along with their juices to the pot. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the short pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer until pasta is cooked (about 10–15 minutes).
- Remove from heat; stir in 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: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
