A bowl of easy one pot creamy tomato pasta garnished with fresh basil.

Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a fantastic dish for anyone looking for a quick and satisfying meal. It’s simple to make and requires minimal clean-up since everything cooks in one pot. The combination of fresh tomatoes, garlic, and cream creates a rich and flavorful sauce that wraps around the pasta beautifully. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner with friends.

How to Make Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

Ingredients:

  • 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

Directions:

  1. Heat the Oil: In a medium, high-sided skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat for 2 minutes.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté gently until soft, fragrant, and translucent.
  3. Cook Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they start to caramelise slightly.
  4. Add Stock and Pasta: Pour in the stock and add the spaghetti, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the liquid.
  5. Cook Pasta: Let it cook for about 15 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
  6. Combine Ingredients: Gently stir in the double cream and fresh basil. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  7. Serve: Serve hot, garnished with additional basil if desired.

How to Serve Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

Serve this creamy pasta hot on individual plates or in a large serving bowl. You can add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top and some extra fresh basil for garnish. Pair it with a side salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool and then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it seems too dry.

Tips to Make Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

  • Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor, but canned tomatoes work well too.
  • Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
  • For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions and garlic.

Variation

For a vegetarian version, simply use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. You can also add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

FAQs

1. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, gluten-free pasta can be used in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary.

2. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is great for meal prep. Just store it in portioned containers and reheat as needed.

3. Can I freeze this pasta?
While it is possible to freeze the pasta, the creamy sauce may change texture when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making.