Description
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a rich, comforting dish made with pantry staples like crushed tomatoes, broth, and pasta. It cooks all in one pot for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or any short pasta)
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
3–4 garlic cloves, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream or half & half
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt & pepper, to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. If using onions, cook for 2–3 minutes until softened, then add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, broth, cream, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Add the uncooked pasta and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened, stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Add a splash of broth or milk if the sauce is too thick.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot, topped with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs.
Notes
Stir occasionally while cooking to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom.
Customize by adding cooked chicken, sausage, shrimp, or white beans.
Make it vegan by using plant-based milk and skipping the Parmesan or using nutritional yeast.
Add greens like spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat with a splash of broth or milk.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
