One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta

Why Make This Recipe

One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta is a quick and delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of tomatoes and cream with the comfort of pasta. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. This one-pan recipe means less cleanup, making it a win-win for everyone.

How to Make One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Directions:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the olive oil to the skillet and let it heat for about a minute.
3. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion to the skillet.
4. Cook the onion, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent.
5. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 more minute, making sure it doesn’t burn.
6. Pour in the diced tomatoes, including the juice from the can, and stir to combine.
7. Sprinkle in the dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes, stirring again.
8. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste.
9. Add the vegetable broth to the skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer.
10. Once simmering, add the pasta to the skillet, stirring to ensure it is evenly submerged.
11. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the pasta cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until it is al dente.
12. Check the pasta occasionally, stirring to prevent it from sticking, and adjust the heat if necessary to maintain a simmer.
13. When the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
14. Once the sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from the heat.
15. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
16. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more salt or black pepper if needed.
17. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
18. Serve the creamy tomato pasta hot, enjoying the rich and flavorful dish.

How to Serve One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta

You can serve One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta immediately after cooking. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor and presentation.

How to Store One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta

To store any leftovers, let the pasta cool completely. Then transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to bring back the creamy texture.

Tips to Make One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta

• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you prefer.
• Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less red pepper flakes to suit your taste.

Variation

You can make this dish with ground meat for a heartier meal. Simply brown the meat in the skillet before adding the onions, and follow the rest of the recipe as usual. You can also substitute heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. About 4-5 medium tomatoes should work well; just chop them and add them to the pan.

2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half, whole milk, or a plant-based cream alternative if you want a lighter version.

3. Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
While it’s best fresh, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and reheat it. Just know that the pasta may absorb some sauce, so you might need to add a little more broth or cream when reheating.