One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

This One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It combines the rich flavors of tomatoes and creamy cheese, all cooked in one pot for minimal cleanup. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends for dinner, this dish is versatile and satisfying. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Base
• For Cooking
• For Flavoring
• How to Make One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
• Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
• Step 2: Add Liquids and Pasta
• Step 3: Cook the Pasta
• Step 4: Add Cheeses
• How to Serve One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
• Pair with a Fresh Salad
• Add Protein
• Top with Extra Garnishes
• Serve with Crusty Bread
• How to Perfect One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
• Best Side Dishes for One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
• Reheating One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use whole wheat pasta in One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta?
• What can I substitute for cream cheese?
• How do I make this dish vegetarian?
• Can I add vegetables?
• How spicy is One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from prep to plate, making it a go-to for those hectic evenings.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pot means less mess and fewer dishes to wash afterward.
• Versatile Flavors: The creamy tomato sauce pairs perfectly with various pasta shapes and can be customized with your favorite veggies or proteins.
• Kid-Friendly: With its delicious flavors and creamy texture, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Comfort Food Classic: Perfectly comforting, this pasta dish is a great choice for cozy nights in or casual gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to make the process seamless. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating your delicious One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Chopping board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the pasta and sauce together, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot, helping prevent sticking.
• Measuring cups: Ensure accurate ingredient quantities for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

This One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is so quick to make – and you only need a single pot! Even the pasta cooks right in the sauce for easy cleanup.

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion (chopped)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• ⅓ cup sundried tomatoes (chopped) (optional – I love it but my kids refuse to eat it)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

For Cooking

• 3 cups chicken stock or water
• 1 (15-oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 1 (12-oz) box short pasta shapes (spirals or bow ties work great)

For Flavoring

• Salt & pepper (to taste)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• ¼ cup cream cheese (OR ricotta, mascarpone… whatever you have on hand! Use more for extra creaminess.)
• Chopped flat leaf parsley (optional)

How to Make One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the onion, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes until starting to soften, about 2 minutes. Add the tomato paste and Italian seasoning and cook for 1 more minute.

Step 2: Add Liquids and Pasta

Pour the chicken stock into the pan, scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the pot. Add the can of diced tomatoes and pasta; season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook until pasta is done, about 10-15 minutes. If the pasta looks dry during cooking, add a little extra broth as needed.

Step 4: Add Cheeses

Take the pasta off the heat. Stir in the Parmesan and cream cheese until well combined. If desired, add chopped parsley. Let sit for 3-4 minutes before serving immediately.

With these straightforward instructions, your One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta will be ready in no time! Enjoy this delightful meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

How to Serve One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing side.
• Caesar Salad: The classic Caesar salad pairs beautifully with creamy pasta for a rich flavor contrast.

Add Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Add slices of grilled chicken on top for extra protein and heartiness.
• Shrimp: Sauté shrimp in garlic and olive oil, then serve over the pasta for a seafood twist.

Top with Extra Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: If you like heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes before serving.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce; simply toast bread with garlic butter.
• Baguette Slices: Lightly toasted baguette slices make an excellent accompaniment to this dish.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

Getting your One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta just right can elevate your cooking game. Here are some helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality tomatoes and cheese to enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Adjust Liquid Amounts: Depending on the type of pasta used, you may need to tweak the liquid amounts for optimal consistency.
• Stir Occasionally: Stirring helps prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot and ensures even cooking.
• Let it Sit Before Serving: Allow the pasta to rest after cooking. This helps thicken the sauce and meld flavors together.
• Experiment with Cheese Variations: Try different cheeses like goat cheese or feta for unique tastes.
• Incorporate Vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers during cooking for added nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

To create a well-rounded meal, consider pairing your One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta with these delightful side dishes.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that perfectly complements creamy pasta dishes; easy to prepare by baking or frying bread with garlic butter.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients; toss with olive oil and seasoning before baking.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing palate cleanser.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil makes for a tasty appetizer or side.
5. Steamed Broccoli: A simple yet nutritious side that adds crunch; steam lightly to retain vibrant color and nutrients.
6. Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables creates an inviting starter before your main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect your dish. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the onion and garlic enhances their flavors. Don’t rush this step, as it adds depth to your sauce.
• Using too much liquid: Be careful with the amount of chicken stock or water. Too much can make your pasta soupy instead of creamy. Stick to the recipe for best results.
• Not stirring enough: Stirring helps prevent the pasta from sticking to the pot. Make sure to stir occasionally while cooking for even texture.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta for too long can lead to mushiness. Keep an eye on it and taste test a couple of minutes before the suggested time.
• Forgetting seasoning adjustments: Each ingredient has its own salt level. Taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end to enhance flavors.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in increments of 1-2 minutes, stirring between, until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth in a pan over medium heat, stirring until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta.

Can I use whole wheat pasta in One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta?

Yes, whole wheat pasta can be used, but keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use ricotta or mascarpone as alternatives. Both will give you that creamy texture!

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Spinach or bell peppers would be great additions for extra nutrition and flavor.

How spicy is One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta?

The recipe is mild but you can add red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat!

Final Thoughts

One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or switching up the cheeses. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family meal. Give it a try today!