Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a fantastic dish that brings the comforting flavors of garlic, fresh tomatoes, and rich cream together in just one pot. Ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe stands out for its simplicity and delightful taste. You’ll love how it transforms ordinary ingredients into a creamy pasta masterpiece!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights.
- One Pot Wonder: Minimal clean-up is required since everything cooks in a single skillet.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of fresh tomatoes and cream creates a luscious sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand, like using canned tomatoes or different pasta types.
- Family-Friendly: This creamy tomato pasta appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta, you’ll need a few essential tools that ensure your cooking process is smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Medium, high-sided skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Medium, high-sided skillet: This tool allows you to cook all ingredients together without spills while providing enough space for the pasta to move freely.
- Wooden spoon: A sturdy wooden spoon makes stirring easy and helps prevent scratches on your cookware.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to create your Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta:
For the Pasta
- 250 g uncooked spaghetti
- 500 g fresh tomatoes (chopped or use 1 x 400 g tin of chopped tomatoes)
For the Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
For Cooking
- 500 ml chicken or vegetable stock (use stock cube for convenience)
For Creaminess
- 150 ml double cream
For Garnish
- ½ bunch fresh basil
How to Make Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a medium, high-sided skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat for about 2 minutes until warm.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté gently until soft, fragrant, and translucent, which should take around 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Cook Tomatoes
Stir in the chopped tomatoes. Cook them until they start to caramelize slightly, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add Stock and Pasta
Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock and add the spaghetti. Ensure it’s fully submerged in the liquid.
Step 5: Cook Pasta
Let it cook for approximately 15 minutes or until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Gently stir in the double cream and fresh basil. Allow it to sit for a couple of minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 7: Serve
Serve hot, garnished with additional basil if desired. Enjoy your delicious Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta!
How to Serve Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Serving Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delightful experience that allows you to explore various flavor combinations. Here are some creative suggestions to elevate your dish.
With Fresh Basil
- Fresh basil leaves can be sprinkled on top for a burst of flavor and color.
Grated Parmesan Cheese
- A generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds a savory and nutty taste that complements the creamy sauce.
Crusty Garlic Bread
- Serve with slices of crusty garlic bread for a satisfying crunch and extra flavor.
Mixed Green Salad
- Pair with a light mixed green salad drizzled with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.
Lemon Wedges
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish, adding a tangy contrast to the creaminess.
Red Pepper Flakes
- For those who enjoy a bit of heat, red pepper flakes can be sprinkled on top for an extra kick.
How to Perfect Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Making your Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta even more delicious is easy with these simple tips.
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Use High-Quality Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes will enhance the flavor significantly. If using canned tomatoes, opt for San Marzano types for the best taste.
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Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente texture as it finishes cooking in the sauce, absorbing all the flavors.
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Add Extra Vegetables: Consider tossing in spinach or zucchini during cooking for added nutrition and color.
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Season Well: Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preference. A pinch of sugar can balance acidity if needed.
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Finish with Olive Oil: Drizzling a bit of extra virgin olive oil just before serving adds richness.
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Let It Rest: Allowing the pasta to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
To complement your Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta, consider these delicious side dishes. They add variety and enhance your meal experience.
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Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Tender broccoli florets roasted with garlic provide a healthy and flavorful side option.
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Caprese Salad: A refreshing mix of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction complements the pasta’s creaminess.
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Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil makes for a perfect appetizer that echoes pasta flavors.
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Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice offer a hearty contrast to your creamy dish.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy Caesar dressing provides crunch and enhances meal satisfaction.
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Zucchini Noodles: Light and low-carb alternative to pasta that adds freshness; serve alongside or under your creamy pasta.
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Roasted Asparagus: Seasoned asparagus spears roasted until tender make an elegant side dish full of nutrients.
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Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables adds variety and excitement to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.
- Skipping the Sautéing: Failing to sauté the onion and garlic can lead to bland flavors. Always take the time to sauté until they are soft and fragrant.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor quality tomatoes or cream can ruin your dish. Opt for fresh or high-quality canned tomatoes and good cream for a rich taste.
- Not Stirring Enough: If you don’t stir occasionally while cooking, the pasta may stick together or burn. Make sure to stir gently throughout the cooking process.
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta too long can result in mushy noodles. Follow the package instructions and check for al dente texture.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting to season your dish adequately will lead to a dull flavor. Taste as you go and add salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the pasta to cool before sealing it in the container.
Freezing Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
- Freeze in a suitable freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Divide into portions for easier thawing.
Reheating Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
- Oven: Preheat at 180°C (350°F) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of water or stock in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh basil?
Yes, you can use dried herbs like oregano or Italian seasoning if fresh basil isn’t available. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated—use less than you would fresh.
What if I don’t have chicken stock?
You can substitute vegetable stock or even water if necessary. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!
How can I customize this creamy tomato pasta?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or proteins such as grilled chicken or shrimp for extra flavor and nutrition.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. Just follow the storage instructions provided above.
Final Thoughts
The Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a fantastic choice for a cozy weeknight dinner. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it comforting and satisfying. Plus, with options for customization, you can easily adapt it to fit your preferences or dietary needs. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With the rich flavors of fresh tomatoes, garlic, and cream simmered to perfection, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a creamy pasta delight. The best part? It all cooks in one pot, which means minimal clean-up! This family-friendly recipe is not only delicious but also versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Get ready to enjoy a hearty meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 250 g uncooked spaghetti
- 500 g fresh tomatoes (chopped or 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
- 150 ml double cream
- ½ bunch fresh basil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a medium, high-sided skillet over medium heat for about 2 minutes.
- Sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and translucent (3-4 minutes).
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until slightly caramelized (about 5 minutes).
- Add chicken or vegetable stock and uncooked spaghetti, ensuring the pasta is fully submerged.
- Cook for around 15 minutes or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in double cream and fresh basil; let sit for a few minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve hot with additional basil if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 300g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
