If you are looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that comes together with minimal fuss, this One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s all about the simplicity of fresh ingredients melting together in one pan to create a rich, velvety sauce drenched in sweet cherry tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and perfectly cooked pasta. The creamy finish adds that luscious touch, making every bite pure comfort without the clean-up hassle. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a casual dinner with friends, this recipe delivers big on taste and ease.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe truly shine, you’ll want to gather a handful of straightforward, fresh ingredients that each play a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. These essentials offer balance, from the sweetness of tomatoes to the aromatic depth of herbs, all finished with a creamy, dreamy consistency.
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli): These shapes hold the sauce beautifully and cook evenly in the single pan.
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved: Their natural sweetness and juiciness form the base of the sauce.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and savory depth once softened.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a fragrant punch that brightens all the flavors.
- 3 cups vegetable broth: The cooking liquid that helps the pasta absorb flavor and stay moist.
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk: Brings that irresistible creamy finish, rich or lighter depending on your choice.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing and adding a silky texture.
- 1 tsp dried basil: A classic Italian herb that complements tomato dishes perfectly.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Adds an earthy, slightly peppery note.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all ingredients.
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish: Adds fresh color and a lovely aromatic finish at serving.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): A final touch of salty richness, if you like.
How to Make One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Onion
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook it gently until it becomes translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. This step builds the savory base of the dish, so don’t rush it; the sweetness released here will shine through in the final sauce.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomatoes
Next, toss in the minced garlic and stir for another minute or two until it’s fragrant but not browned, then add the halved cherry tomatoes. Stir them occasionally as they soften and begin to release their juicy goodness, which takes roughly 3 to 4 minutes. This burst of fresh tomato flavor is what makes this pasta so vibrant.
Step 3: Pour in Broth and Bring to Simmer
Pour in 3 cups of vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. This flavorful liquid is what will cook the pasta while infusing it with all the lovely tomato and herb flavors you’ve built so far.
Step 4: Add Pasta and Seasonings
Now, add 12 ounces of your chosen pasta directly into the skillet. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the broth for even cooking. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of dried basil and oregano, then season with salt and pepper according to your taste. These herbs complement the tomatoes beautifully and give the dish an unmistakable Italian flair.
Step 5: Cook Pasta Until Al Dente
Cover the pan with a lid and let the pasta cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent it from sticking to the bottom. Check the texture as you near the end; you want it tender but still with a slight bite for the perfect al dente experience.
Step 6: Stir in Cream for Richness
Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat and pour in your choice of 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk. Stir gently to combine everything, creating that creamy, luxurious texture that turns simple pasta into a decadent treat. Let it simmer a few minutes more to thicken slightly, stirring often so it doesn’t stick or burn.
How to Serve One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe with fresh basil leaves adds not only a pop of vibrant green but also a refreshing herbal aroma that lifts the dish. Sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an optional cheesy richness that melts perfectly over the creamy surface.
Side Dishes
This dish stands out on its own but pairs wonderfully with light sides like a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables. Crusty garlic bread is another brilliant partner, perfect for soaking up any extra creamy tomato sauce left in the pan.
Creative Ways to Present
For a little extra flair, serve this pasta in individual shallow bowls to show off the bright cherry tomatoes and creamy sauce. You can also drizzle a bit of high-quality olive oil or a balsamic glaze on top for added depth. For gatherings, a large family-style platter encourages sharing and adds a cozy, communal vibe to your meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken upon chilling, so a splash of broth or water will revive its creamy texture when reheated.
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftover pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Be sure to let it cool completely before freezing, and keep in mind the texture of cream-based sauces may change slightly after freezing and thawing.
Reheating
When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of broth, cream, or water to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to heat evenly and restore that silky creaminess you love about the dish.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works wonderfully in this One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe, just be mindful of the cooking time as it may vary slightly depending on the brand.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply swap the heavy cream for coconut milk and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative, and you’ll have a delicious vegan version that still captures all the creamy, comforting flavors.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely! Cooked chicken, shrimp, or even crispy tofu stirred in near the end of cooking can make this recipe a heartier meal without compromising the creamy tomato sauce’s integrity.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking in one-pan recipes?
Stirring occasionally during the cooking process and ensuring there is enough liquid in the pan will help prevent sticking. Also, using a non-stick skillet or well-seasoned pan can make a difference.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
You can, but since fresh herbs are less concentrated, use about three times more fresh basil and oregano compared to the dried amounts to maintain the same flavor intensity.
Final Thoughts
This One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe is a true testament to how simple ingredients and a little love can come together for a meal that feels special any day of the week. It’s creamy, comforting, and bursting with fresh tomato flavor — what’s not to love? I hope you give this recipe a try soon and find it becoming a staple in your cooking rotation just like it has in mine.
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One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 20m
- Total Time: 0h 30m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta is a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender pasta cooked directly in a flavorful tomato and vegetable broth sauce, enriched with creamy heavy cream or coconut milk, it offers a comforting, rich, and easy-to-make dish. Garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan, this recipe requires minimal cleanup and delivers maximum flavor.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables & Liquids
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a lighter option
Oils & Garnishes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the aromatics.
- Sauté Onion: Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent and softened, about 5 minutes, which builds the flavor base.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, avoiding burning.
- Cook Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes, stirring occasionally, letting them break down slightly and release their juices, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer to start cooking the pasta in the liquid.
- Add Pasta: Submerge the pasta into the simmering broth and stir to distribute evenly in the pan.
- Season: Stir in dried basil, oregano, and season with salt and pepper to taste, layering the flavors.
- Cook Pasta: Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Add Cream: Reduce heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk until fully incorporated for a rich and creamy texture.
- Simmer to Thicken: Let it simmer an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to thicken the sauce slightly.
- Serve: Plate the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and optional grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option that adds a subtle coconut flavor.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Stir occasionally while cooking the pasta to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Adding Parmesan is optional but adds a nice salty, umami finish.
- Use fresh herbs if available for a brighter flavor, adding them at the end of cooking.
