Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of tomatoes with creamy goodness, all cooked in just one pot for effortless cleanup.

Olivia Hayes

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2025-12-20T20:45:59.477Z

Imagine a cozy evening where you can whip up a delicious, creamy pasta dish in just one pot! This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights and will become a family favorite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Creamy and comforting texture that's perfect for any occasion
  • Quick and easy preparation with minimal cleanup
  • Bursting with fresh tomato flavor and aromatic herbs

The Benefits of One-Pot Cooking

One-pot meals are a game changer for busy weeknights or when you're simply craving comfort food without the hassle. With this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta, you can whip up a delicious dinner in no time while keeping your kitchen mess to a minimum. The simplicity of cooking everything in a single pot allows for easy monitoring of the cooking process, ensuring perfectly cooked pasta and rich, flavorful sauce.

Additionally, one-pot cooking helps to meld flavors beautifully. As the pasta cooks in the broth and tomatoes, it absorbs all the delicious juices, resulting in a dish that is bursting with freshness. The less time spent washing pots and pans means more time to enjoy your meal and the company of loved ones.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This creamy tomato pasta is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner, preparing a romantic date night, or looking for a dish to impress your friends, this pasta recipe fits the bill. The creamy texture and vibrant color make it visually appealing, while the fresh flavors cater to a wide range of palates.

You can also customize this dish to suit your dietary preferences. Feel free to add in some sautéed vegetables, or protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp, to create a heartier meal. The creamy tomato base pairs well with various ingredients, allowing you to make it your own.

Tips for the Best Creamy Tomato Pasta

To achieve the best flavor in your Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta, opt for high-quality ingredients. Fresh cherry tomatoes will provide a sweeter, more vibrant flavor than canned options. If you have access to garden-fresh herbs, using fresh basil instead of dried will elevate the dish even further. The aromatic notes of fresh herbs can transform this simple meal into something extraordinary.

When it comes to the heavy cream, consider using a light cream or half-and-half for a lighter version. This will still give you that creamy texture without being too rich. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving; a pinch of salt and pepper can make all the difference.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious pasta dish:

Ingredients

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy tomato pasta:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the vegetable broth, dried basil, and oregano, stirring well.

Cook the Pasta

Add the penne pasta to the pot, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.

Stir in the Cream

Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese, and serve hot!

Enjoy your delicious one pot meal!

Secondary image

Pro Tips

  • For added flavor, you can incorporate spinach or mushrooms into the sauté. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta can be served as a standalone dish or paired with a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the pasta beautifully. You can also serve it with a side of garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce, making it even more indulgent.

For added texture and flavor, consider topping each serving with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. These garnishes add a touch of heat and sweetness, enhancing the overall experience of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to help loosen the pasta, as it may thicken in the fridge. Heat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to ensure even warming.

For longer storage, you can freeze the creamy tomato pasta. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for a quick meal that tastes just as delicious as the first time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, but cooking times may vary.

→ Is there a dairy-free option?

Absolutely! Use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream substitute.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas would make great additions.

Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of tomatoes with creamy goodness, all cooked in just one pot for effortless cleanup.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time30 minutes

Created by: Olivia Hayes

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 12 oz penne pasta
  2. 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  3. 1 cup heavy cream
  4. 1 onion, diced
  5. 3 cloves garlic, minced
  6. 2 cups vegetable broth
  7. 1 tsp dried basil
  8. 1 tsp dried oregano
  9. Salt and pepper to taste
  10. Fresh basil for garnish
  11. Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

Step 02

Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the vegetable broth, dried basil, and oregano, stirring well.

Step 03

Add the penne pasta to the pot, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.

Step 04

Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 05

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese, and serve hot!

Extra Tips

  1. For added flavor, you can incorporate spinach or mushrooms into the sauté. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Total Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 10g