One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

This One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is an ideal dish for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and requires only one pot for cooking, making cleanup a breeze. The creamy tomato sauce envelops the pasta, creating a comforting meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or alongside a salad, this pasta recipe shines in its simplicity and taste.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Base
• For the Sauce
• For the Pasta
• For Flavoring
• How to Make One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
• Step 1: Sauté the Base
• Step 2: Add Liquids and Pasta
• Step 3: Cook the Pasta
• Step 4: Add Cheeses
• How to Serve One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
• With Fresh Herbs
• Accompanied by Garlic Bread
• Paired with a Salad
• With Grilled Vegetables
• How to Perfect One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
• Best Side Dishes for One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
• Reheating One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta so easy?
• Can I customize One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta?
• Is One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta kid-friendly?
• How do I make One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta vegetarian?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Minimal Cleanup: With everything cooked in one pot, you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
• Deliciously Creamy: The blend of cream cheese and Parmesan creates a rich sauce that coats every bite of pasta.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap in different pasta shapes or add veggies based on what you have on hand.
• Kid-Friendly: The mild tomato flavor and creamy texture are sure to please even picky eaters.

Tools and Preparation

To make the One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help ensure that your cooking process is smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: This is crucial for cooking all ingredients together while allowing enough space for the pasta to expand.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board makes chopping vegetables easy and safe.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when preparing your ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring the sauce without scratching your pot’s surface.

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 the Sauce

• 3 cups chicken stock or water
• 1 (15-oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained)

For the Pasta

• 1 (12-oz) box short pasta shapes (spirals or bow ties work great)

For Flavoring

• 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.)
• Chopped flat leaf parsley (optional)

How to Make One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Base

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 to enhance flavors.

Step 2: Add Liquids and Pasta

Pour the chicken stock into the pan while scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the pot. Then, add the can of diced tomatoes along with your chosen pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook until pasta is tender, about 10-15 minutes. If it looks dry during cooking, feel free to add extra broth as needed.

Step 4: Add Cheeses

Remove the pot from heat and stir in both Parmesan and cream cheese until well combined. If desired, sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Allow the pasta to sit for 3-4 minutes before serving immediately.

Enjoy this delightful One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta with family or friends—it’s sure to become a favorite!

How to Serve One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

Serving One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta can be as simple or as fancy as you desire. Here are some delightful suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Chopped fresh basil adds a vibrant flavor and aroma.
• Parsley: Sprinkle chopped flat-leaf parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Accompanied by Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread: A crunchy side to soak up the creamy sauce is always a hit.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Top with mozzarella cheese for an extra indulgent treat.

Paired with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine tossed with Caesar dressing complements the dish beautifully.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Zucchini and Bell Peppers: Lightly seasoned and grilled vegetables enhance the meal’s healthiness.
• Asparagus: Quick-grilled asparagus adds a nice crunch and vibrant color.

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

To achieve the best version of One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta, consider these helpful tips.

• Use high-quality tomatoes: Opt for San Marzano tomatoes for richer flavor.
• Adjust creaminess: Add more cream cheese or mascarpone if you prefer a creamier texture.
• Experiment with pasta shapes: Different shapes like penne or fusilli can change the eating experience.
• Season adequately: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; they enhance the overall flavor tremendously.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

Pairing your One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta with sides can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: Toss broccoli with olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan before roasting.
2. Simple Green Salad: A mix of greens with olive oil and lemon dressing provides a fresh contrast.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms: Fill mushrooms with cheese and herbs for a savory addition.
4. Antipasto Platter: A variety of olives, cheeses, and cured meats makes for a delightful nibble.
5. Roasted Cauliflower: Seasoned with spices, roasted cauliflower offers a tasty, healthy side.
6. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomato, basil, and balsamic glaze adds freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the onion and garlic enhances flavors. Don’t rush; let them soften for better taste.
• Not scraping the pot: Failing to scrape up browned bits can lead to a less flavorful sauce. Always deglaze your pot!
• Using the wrong pasta: Not all pasta shapes work well in one pot dishes. Choose short shapes like spirals or bow ties for best results.
• Ignoring liquid levels: If you don’t add enough liquid, your pasta may turn out dry. Keep an eye on it and add broth if needed.
• Not letting it rest: Skipping the resting time after cooking makes the pasta soupy. Allow it to thicken before serving.

PIN THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3-5 days in the fridge.

Freezing One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute increments, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section answers common queries about One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta.

What makes One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta so easy?

One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta simplifies cooking by combining all ingredients in one pot, saving time and reducing cleanup.

Can I customize One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta?

Yes! You can add vegetables, proteins like chicken or shrimp, or substitute different cheeses based on your preference.

Is One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Its creamy texture and mild flavors make it appealing for kids, plus it’s quick to prepare.

How do I make One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta vegetarian?

Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock, and you can enjoy this tasty dish without meat!

Final Thoughts

One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delightful dish packed with flavor and comfort. Its versatility allows you to customize it however you like. Whether you choose to add extra veggies or switch up the cheese, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try and enjoy a warm bowl of deliciousness!