Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is the perfect dish for anyone looking for a quick yet delicious meal. Combining fresh tomatoes, rich cream, and aromatic garlic, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners or any occasion when you need comfort food that is satisfying and easy to prepare. With minimal cleanup thanks to the one-pot method, this recipe stands out for its simplicity and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish can be ready in just 25 minutes, making it a great option for busy nights.
- One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes to wash means more time to enjoy your meal.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of cream and fresh tomatoes creates a creamy sauce that enhances the pasta beautifully.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins for added nutrition.
- Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will love.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience seamless, gather these essential tools and equipment before getting started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Medium high-sided skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chopping board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Medium high-sided skillet: This allows you to cook everything in one pot without spills or messes.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients gently without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 250 g uncooked spaghetti
- 500 g fresh tomatoes (chopped or use 1 x 400 g tin of chopped tomatoes)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 500 ml chicken or vegetable stock (use stock cube for convenience)
- 150 ml double cream
- ½ bunch fresh basil
How to Make Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a medium high-sided skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat for about 2 minutes until it shimmers.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté gently until they are soft, fragrant, and translucent.
Step 3: Cook Tomatoes
Stir in the chopped tomatoes. Cook until they start to caramelize slightly, enhancing their natural sweetness.
Step 4: Add Stock and Pasta
Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock. Then add the spaghetti, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the liquid.
Step 5: Cook Pasta
Let it cook for about 15 minutes or until the pasta reaches al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Gently stir in the double cream and fresh basil. Let it sit for a couple of minutes so the flavors can meld together.
Step 7: Serve
Serve hot, garnished with additional basil if desired. Enjoy your creamy tomato pasta!
How to Serve Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Serving Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delightful experience. This dish pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its creamy texture and rich flavor.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Basil Leaves: Add a few fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate some Parmesan over the pasta to introduce a salty, nutty element.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread alongside for a perfect dipping option.
- Baguette Slices: Crisp baguette slices can be used to soak up the delicious sauce.
Complement with Salad
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing make for a refreshing contrast.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil complement the main dish beautifully.
Add Protein
- Grilled Chicken: Sliced grilled chicken on top adds protein and makes it more filling.
- Shrimp: Sautéed shrimp can be tossed in just before serving for an elegant touch.
Offer Extra Sauce
- Tomato Sauce on the Side: Provide extra creamy tomato sauce for those who love more flavor.
- Chili Flakes: For spice lovers, sprinkle chili flakes for an added kick.
How to Perfect Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
To achieve the best results with your Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh tomatoes when possible; they enhance the flavor significantly.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure the pasta is al dente to avoid mushiness in the final dish.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go and adjust seasoning gradually to suit your palate.
- Let it Rest: Allow the dish to sit before serving so flavors meld together perfectly.
Best Side Dishes for Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Choosing the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside your Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta:
- Garlic Bread: Perfectly crisp and buttery, this classic pairs beautifully with pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: A colorful mix of seasonal veggies adds nutrition and flavor contrast.
- Simple Green Salad: Light greens dressed in olive oil provide freshness against rich pasta.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil offers a light starter.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms filled with cheese make for a delicious bite-sized treat.
- Antipasto Platter: A variety of cured meats, cheeses, and olives create a flavorful spread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Using the wrong pasta: Different pasta types have varying cooking times. Stick with spaghetti or a similar shape for the best results.
- Not sautéing the aromatics enough: If you rush this step, the flavors won’t develop fully. Sauté until onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Adding too much liquid: Ensure your pasta is submerged but not swimming in stock. Too much liquid can make the dish soupy instead of creamy.
- Skipping the resting time: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after adding cream helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
- Forgetting to season properly: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. A little salt and pepper can elevate your dish significantly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
- Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta healthier?
You can substitute whole wheat pasta or add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrients and fiber.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, using a can of chopped tomatoes is convenient and works well in this recipe. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
What other herbs can I add to Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta?
Feel free to experiment with herbs like oregano, thyme, or parsley for different flavor profiles.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep as it stores well and reheats nicely, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Final Thoughts
Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. This comforting dish is quick enough for weeknight meals yet satisfying enough to impress guests. Give it a try, and enjoy the creamy goodness!
Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines rich flavors and effortless preparation. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this creamy dish featuring fresh tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and smooth double cream—all cooked in one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights or any occasion that calls for a satisfying meal, this recipe requires minimal cleanup, making it as convenient as it is delicious. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys every bite. Get ready to indulge in a creamy pasta experience that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 250 g uncooked spaghetti
- 500 g fresh tomatoes (chopped or 1 x 400 g tin of chopped tomatoes)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 500 ml chicken or vegetable stock
- 150 ml double cream
- ½ bunch fresh basil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a medium high-sided skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in chopped tomatoes and cook until caramelized slightly.
- Add chicken or vegetable stock followed by the spaghetti; ensure it's submerged.
- Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until al dente.
- Gently mix in double cream and fresh basil; let sit for a few minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra basil if desired.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 63g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
