A comforting bowl of creamy tomato pasta is the perfect meal for a busy day. This one-pot recipe delivers a rich, flavorful sauce with tender pasta, all cooked in a single pan for easy cleanup.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious vegetarian dinner in under 30 minutes. Plus, the addition of mozzarella makes it extra creamy and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or plant-based alternative
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan option)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- 1/2 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Instructions:
Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 2 minutes until it softens. Stir in the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, dried oregano, and dried basil. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine the flavors. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to enhance the taste. If desired, add a pinch of sugar to reduce the acidity of the tomatoes and a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.
Cook the Pasta
Add the uncooked pasta to the pan. Stir occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom. Cover the pan and let the pasta cook in the sauce for 10–12 minutes or until al dente. If needed, add a little more broth to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally to evenly distribute the sauce.
Make it Creamy
Once the pasta is tender, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Mix well to create a silky, creamy texture. Let it cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Add Cheese and Season
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella until melted and well incorporated. The mozzarella will create a stretchy, cheesy texture that makes this dish irresistible. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
Serve and Garnish
Turn off the heat and sprinkle fresh basil on top. Serve hot with extra cheese if desired. Pair with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Creamy Tomato Pasta:
- Choose the Right Pasta: Short pasta like penne or fusilli works best, but spaghetti also absorbs the sauce well.
- Make it Vegan: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan and mozzarella.
- Add Protein: Toss in cooked chickpeas, tofu, or white beans for extra protein.
- Boost Flavor: A splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar can balance the acidity of tomatoes.
- Include Vegetables: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
- Make it Spicier: If you love heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.
Variations:
- Pesto Twist: Stir in a spoonful of pesto at the end for a fresh, herby flavor.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of umami.
- Mushroom Addition: Sauté mushrooms with the onions for a deeper, earthier taste.
- Extra Cheese: Add ricotta or cream cheese for an even richer texture.
Serving Suggestions:
This one-pot creamy tomato pasta pairs beautifully with garlic bread, a simple side salad, or roasted vegetables. For a complete Italian-inspired meal, serve with a glass of red wine and a side of bruschetta.
This one-pot creamy tomato pasta is a quick and satisfying meal that requires minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this easy recipe will become a go-to favorite. The creamy tomato sauce, combined with melted mozzarella, creates a comforting dish that is both rich and delicious. Enjoy it fresh or save leftovers for a quick and tasty meal the next day!
