Description
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a quick and delicious meal made with simple ingredients. A rich, velvety tomato sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan cheese coats tender pasta, all cooked in one pot for minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté the Garlic – Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning – Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the Pasta – Pour in the dry pasta and stir to coat. Cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
- Make it Creamy – Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth and well combined.
- Serve – Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Add Protein – Mix in cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage.
- Make it Vegetarian – Use vegetable broth and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
- Spicy Kick – Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Extra Cheesy – Stir in shredded mozzarella for a richer texture.
- Lighter Version – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: One-Pot, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Keywords: One pot pasta, creamy tomato sauce, easy pasta recipe, quick weeknight dinner, family-friendly meal