Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Discover the simplicity and deliciousness of this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines rich flavors with minimal cleanup.

Daphne Collins

Created by

Daphne Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-21T08:35:56.494Z

This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a deliciously comforting meal that can be made in just one pot. With its creamy tomato sauce, this dish is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and creamy texture that satisfies every craving
  • Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one pot
  • Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights

A Quick and Delicious Dinner Option

When life gets busy, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can be challenging. This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta offers a solution that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for convenience. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Perfect for those hectic weeknights, this dish allows you to enjoy a comforting pasta dinner without the fuss.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Everything cooks in one pot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while minimizing cleanup. This means less time scrubbing pots and pans and more time enjoying your meal with your loved ones. Plus, the creamy tomato sauce pairs wonderfully with the pasta, creating a satisfying dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Customization Options

One of the great things about this creamy tomato pasta is its versatility. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Add in some sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also toss in cooked protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a heartier meal, ensuring that it fits your dietary preferences.

For those looking to lighten the dish, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or substituting the pasta with whole grain or gluten-free options. The recipe is forgiving and can be adapted to suit various dietary needs while still delivering that rich and creamy texture that everyone loves.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, storing this creamy pasta is easy. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

For longer storage, consider freezing the pasta. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat. This makes it a great meal prep option for busy individuals or families, ensuring you always have a delicious dish ready to go.

Ingredients

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Gather all your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, combine the penne pasta, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, garlic powder, and onion powder. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Simmer

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked al dente.

Add Cream

Stir in the heavy cream and mix well. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil. Enjoy your creamy tomato pasta!

Feel free to customize by adding vegetables or protein to your dish!

Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy tomato pasta with a simple green salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal. The freshness of the salad complements the rich pasta beautifully, while the bread provides the perfect vehicle for scooping up any leftover sauce. You can also serve it with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch of flavor.

For a more Italian flair, consider adding a side of garlic bread or bruschetta. These sides will enhance the overall dining experience and make your meal feel more gourmet, even on a busy weeknight.

Why This Recipe is a Family Favorite

Families love this recipe not only for its taste but also for its ease of preparation. Kids are often drawn to the creamy tomato sauce, which makes it an appealing choice for even the pickiest eaters. The one-pot method means that parents can enjoy the cooking process without the stress of multiple dishes, making it an enjoyable family cooking experience.

Moreover, this pasta dish is a fantastic way to introduce young chefs to the kitchen. With just a few simple steps, they can help out and learn basic cooking skills while creating a meal that everyone will enjoy. It's a fun and interactive way to spend time together while fostering a love for cooking.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute with any pasta of your choice. Cooking times may vary.

→ Is there a vegan alternative for cream?

Absolutely! You can use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas work well in this recipe.

Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

Discover the simplicity and deliciousness of this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines rich flavors with minimal cleanup.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time30 minutes

Created by: Daphne Collins

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Main Ingredients

  1. 8 oz penne pasta
  2. 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
  3. 1 cup vegetable broth
  4. 1 cup heavy cream
  5. 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  6. 1 teaspoon onion powder
  7. Salt and pepper to taste
  8. Fresh basil for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pot, combine the penne pasta, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, garlic powder, and onion powder. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 02

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked al dente.

Step 03

Stir in the heavy cream and mix well. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 04

Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil. Enjoy your creamy tomato pasta!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 400 kcal
  • Total Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 6g
  • Protein: 10g