One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
This One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to please the whole family. The best part? Everything cooks in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a quick meal for your kids, this pasta dish fits every occasion with ease.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy days.
- Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pot means less washing up and more time enjoying your meal.
- Deliciously Creamy: The combination of cheeses creates an irresistibly creamy texture that elevates the simple tomato sauce.
- Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients based on your preferences, like adding vegetables or different types of pasta.
- Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family dinners.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing this One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is straightforward with the right tools. Gather your kitchen essentials to make the process smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Chopping board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the pasta and sauce together in one vessel, ensuring even cooking.
- Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pot while mixing in all those delicious ingredients.
- Measuring cups: Ensure precise measurements for consistent results every time you make this creamy pasta.
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.
Main 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…)
- Chopped flat leaf parsley (optional)
How to Make One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Step 1: Sauté
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 while scraping any browned bits off the bottom. Add the can of diced tomatoes along with the pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Bring the mixture to a boil. Then reduce heat to a simmer and cook until pasta is tender, about 10-15 minutes. If it looks dry during cooking, add more broth as needed.
Step 4: Add Cheeses
Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan and cream cheese until melted. Add parsley if desired. Let sit for 3-4 minutes before serving immediately.
Now you have a delightful meal ready to enjoy!
How to Serve One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Serving One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta can be as delightful as making it. This dish is versatile and pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that elevate its flavors.
Add Fresh Ingredients
- Chopped Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil on top for a fragrant touch.
- Grated Parmesan: Extra cheese enhances the creamy texture.
- Sliced Avocado: Adds creaminess and a healthy twist.
Pair with Proteins
- Grilled Chicken: Adds heartiness and makes it more filling.
- Shrimp: Lightly sautéed shrimp create a lovely contrast.
- Italian Sausage: Crumbled sausage infuses rich flavors.
Include a Refreshing Salad
- Greek Salad: A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta complements the pasta.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing provide a nice balance.
Serve with Bread
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
- Crusty Baguette: Great for dipping into the sauce.
How to Perfect One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
To achieve the best results with your One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta, follow these helpful tips.
- Use High-Quality Tomatoes: Opt for good canned tomatoes for better flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste while cooking; feel free to add more salt or herbs as needed.
- Choose the Right Pasta Shape: Short pasta shapes hold onto sauce well; spirals or bow ties work great.
- Add More Creaminess: For an ultra-creamy dish, increase the amount of cream cheese or use mascarpone.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit after cooking thickens the sauce beautifully.
- Incorporate Veggies: Add spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
Best Side Dishes for One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Complementing your One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta with delightful side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, it’s perfect for dipping in the creamy sauce.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection add texture and flavor.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil makes a classic appetizer.
- Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans with toasted almonds offer a nutty crunch.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with creamy dressing complements the pasta nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta can be simple, but there are a few common missteps you can make. Here’s how to avoid them.
- Skipping the sautéing step: Sautéing the onion and garlic is crucial for flavor. Don’t rush this step; let them become fragrant for the best taste.
- Not adjusting liquid levels: If the mixture looks dry during cooking, add more broth. Keeping an eye on the pasta’s texture will ensure it cooks perfectly.
- Using the wrong pasta shape: Short pasta shapes like spirals or bow ties are best for this dish. Other shapes may not absorb the sauce as well.
- Forgetting to stir: Stirring occasionally helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking. Make it a habit to check your pot!
- Serving immediately without resting: Letting the pasta sit for a few minutes thickens the sauce. This extra time enhances flavor and texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Freezing One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
- Allow the pasta to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags to store portions. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through for even heating.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth and warm over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta.
What is One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta?
One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a quick and easy meal where pasta cooks directly in a tomato-based sauce, creating a creamy texture without extra pans.
Can I customize One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. You can also swap cheeses based on your preference.
How do I make One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta vegetarian?
Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock and keep all ingredients plant-based. This recipe is naturally vegetarian-friendly!
What can I serve with One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta?
This dish pairs well with garlic bread or a fresh salad. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top enhances its flavor!
Final Thoughts
One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is not only quick but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it perfect for family dinners or weeknight meals. Give it a try and enjoy the rich flavors in every bite!
One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delightful, hassle-free dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this creamy pasta combines rich tomato sauce with a blend of cheeses for an irresistible texture. With minimal cleanup thanks to cooking everything in one pot, you can enjoy more time with family and friends. This recipe is versatile enough to suit any occasion, whether you’re making a quick meal for the kids or impressing guests at a dinner party. Get ready to savor every bite!
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…)
- Chopped flat leaf parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil until soft. Add sundried tomatoes, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning; cook for one more minute.
- Pour in chicken stock and add diced tomatoes along with short pasta. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until pasta is tender (10-15 minutes). Add more broth if needed.
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan and cream cheese until melted. Let sit for a few minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approx. 240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
