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One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.8 from 80 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • 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

Scale

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

  1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the aromatics.
  2. Sauté Onion: Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent and softened, about 5 minutes, which builds the flavor base.
  3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, avoiding burning.
  4. Cook Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes, stirring occasionally, letting them break down slightly and release their juices, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Add Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer to start cooking the pasta in the liquid.
  6. Add Pasta: Submerge the pasta into the simmering broth and stir to distribute evenly in the pan.
  7. Season: Stir in dried basil, oregano, and season with salt and pepper to taste, layering the flavors.
  8. Cook Pasta: Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  9. Add Cream: Reduce heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk until fully incorporated for a rich and creamy texture.
  10. Simmer to Thicken: Let it simmer an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to thicken the sauce slightly.
  11. 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.