Name: One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta: A Cozy Weeknight Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 12 oz Pasta (Use any shape like penne or fusilli for variety.); 2 tbsp Olive Oil (Adds richness and helps sauté the onions.); 1 medium Onion (Use yellow or white for sweetness.); 3 cloves Garlic (Fresh garlic is best for flavor.); 1 can Diced Tomatoes (These add a tangy flavor.); 1 tsp Dried Basil (Use dried for convenience.); 1 tsp Dried Oregano (Complements the tomatoes.); 1 pinch Red Pepper Flakes (Add a hint of heat.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (For that rich, creamy texture.); 2 cups Vegetable Broth (Enhances flavor.); to taste Salt (Essential seasoning.); to taste Black Pepper (Essential seasoning.); to taste Fresh Basil Leaves (Use for garnishing.); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Sprinkle in for a savory kick.)

Sautéing onions in olive oil fills the kitchen with an inviting aroma, transporting me to cozy evenings spent with family around the table. One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta is my go-to for busy weeknights when I crave comfort without the fuss. This dish not only delivers on flavor, but its one-pan nature ensures cleanup is a breeze—no more juggling pots and pans! As the pasta simmers in a rich, velvety tomato sauce, infused with garlic and fragrant herbs, you’ll find it’s the perfect solution for quick dinners that satisfy. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a meal that feels indulgent yet is wonderfully easy. Are you ready to discover how a few pantry staples can create dinner magic?

Why is One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta Amazing?

Simplicity: You only need a handful of ingredients and one pan, making cooking seamless and stress-free.
Rich, Comforting Flavor: The savory combination of tomatoes, garlic, and cream creates a warm, inviting meal that’s hard to resist.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Versatile: Easily adapt this recipe by adding proteins like chicken or shrimp, or toss in your favorite vegetables for a nutritious boost.
Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the ideal solution for busy weeknights—perfect when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Looking for more delightful recipes? Enjoy our easy Turkey Noodle Soup or try these creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Shells for a comforting dinner.

One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta Ingredients

Unlock the secret to a delightful weeknight dinner with these simple ingredients.

For the Pasta

Pasta – Use any shape like penne or fusilli for variety.

For the Sauce

Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps sauté the onions; feel free to use any cooking oil.
Onion – Use yellow or white for sweetness and depth in your sauce.
Garlic – Fresh garlic is best for flavor; substitute with garlic powder if needed.
Diced Tomatoes (canned) – These add a tangy flavor; crushed tomatoes work for a smoother sauce.
Dried Basil – Use dried for a convenient option, or switch to fresh basil for vibrant flavor.
Dried Oregano – Complements the tomatoes with earthy notes.
Red Pepper Flakes – Add a hint of heat; omit for a milder version.
Heavy Cream – For that rich, creamy texture; consider coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Vegetable Broth – Enhances flavor; chicken broth or water can also be used.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings that elevate the dish.
Fresh Basil Leaves – Use for garnishing and a touch of freshness in each serving.

For the Finishing Touches

Parmesan Cheese – Sprinkle in for a savory kick; use dairy-free Parmesan for a non-dairy meal.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta

Step 1: Heat the Skillet
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat for about 2 minutes, allowing it to warm up. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring it shimmers gently in the pan. This will create a flavorful base for your One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta, enhancing the overall richness as you sauté.

Step 2: Sauté Onions
Once the oil is heated, add a finely chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. You’ll notice a delightful aroma filling your kitchen, signaling it’s time to infuse more flavor into your creamy pasta dish.

Step 3: Add Garlic
Next, stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute. Keep an eye on the garlic to prevent it from burning—this step adds an aromatic punch to your dish. As the garlic sizzles, you’ll notice its fragrance intensifying, hinting at the comforting layers of flavor to come.

Step 4: Stir in Tomatoes
Add 1 can of diced tomatoes with their juice into the skillet. Mix well, allowing the tomatoes to meld beautifully with the sautéed onion and garlic. This forms the base of your sauce, and you should see the mixture bubble gently as it heats through over medium heat.

Step 5: Season the Sauce
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of dried basil and dried oregano, along with a pinch of red pepper flakes to taste. Season everything generously with salt and black pepper. Stir to combine, allowing the dried herbs to rehydrate and infuse their aromatic qualities into the sauce for your One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta.

Step 6: Pour in Broth
Add 2 cups of vegetable broth to the skillet, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Raise the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a simmer. You’ll see small bubbles forming around the edges, which signals that the sauce is ready for the pasta to be added next.

Step 7: Incorporate Pasta
Add 12 ounces of your preferred pasta to the skillet, ensuring it’s completely submerged in the simmering sauce. Give it a gentle stir and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 8: Stir in Cream
Once the pasta has reached the perfect texture, remove the lid and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, helping the sauce thicken and coat the pasta beautifully. The creamy texture will meld seamlessly with the tangy tomato flavors.

Step 9: Add Cheese
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and combines completely into the sauce. The cheese adds a savory depth that enhances the overall richness of your One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta, making it irresistible.

Step 10: Final Adjustments
Taste the creamy pasta and adjust the seasoning as desired, adding more salt or pepper if needed. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor, making your dish not only delicious but visually appealing as well. Serve it warm, ready to bring smiles to your dinner table.

Make Ahead Options

One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta is a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving time on busy weeknights! You can chop the onions, mince the garlic, and even mix the dried herbs all up to 24 hours in advance. Store these prepped ingredients in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the creamy sauce base (without the cream and cheese) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your pasta, simply heat the mixture, add the pasta and broth, and follow the remaining cooking steps to finish the recipe. This way, you’ll enjoy a delightful homemade meal with less fuss!

What to Serve with One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta

The comforting richness of this creamy dish opens a world of delightful pairings to create a complete and satisfying meal.

Garlic Bread: The perfect companion, its crunch contrasts beautifully with the creaminess, making every bite a little slice of heaven.
Crisp Salad: A fresh, seasonal salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing palate cleanser. The crunch and acidity enhance the overall flavor experience.
Roasted Vegetables: Sweet, caramelized veggies like bell peppers and zucchini add both color and nutrition, balancing the dish’s richness.
Cheesy Breadsticks: Warm, cheesy breadsticks dipped in marinara complement the pasta, providing an indulgent twist to your dinner.
Red Wine: A glass of light red wine brings out the flavor of the tomatoes, creating a harmonious pairing that elevates the entire meal.
Lemon Sorbet: Serve this refreshing dessert to cleanse your palate after the creamy pasta, leaving a bright note to finish the meal.

Explore these pairings and discover how each one can enhance your dining experience!

Expert Tips for One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta

Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and herbs for a vibrant flavor profile in your One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta. Dried herbs can lack the same intensity.
Pasta Type: Experiment with different pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Each shape impacts the dish, so choose what you love best!
Avoid Sticking: Stir the pasta every few minutes while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the skillet. This ensures a creamy texture throughout.
Adjust Creaminess: If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of vegetable broth or water while reheating. This keeps the sauce from becoming too dense.
Customize Flavor: For a little extra kick, add more red pepper flakes. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance!

One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta Variations

Customize your One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta to match your cravings and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a creamy consistency that’s perfect for dairy-free diets.
Add a splash of lime juice to elevate the flavors and balance the richness.
Protein-Packed: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein.
This makes the dish heartier and perfect for a filling family meal.
Vegetable Boost: Include steamed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
These veggies not only add vibrancy but also enhance the fiber content of your dish!
Spicy Kick: Increase salt red pepper flakes or add fresh jalapeños for an extra layer of heat.
The warmth will perfectly complement the creamy tomato sauce, making every bite exciting!
Herbaceous Twist: Swap dried herbs for fresh basil and oregano for a more aromatic approach.
Fresh herbs can brighten the dish significantly, enhancing the garden-fresh flavor of your pasta.
Pasta Varieties: Use different pasta shapes like bowtie, spaghetti, or whole grain for fun texture variations.
Each shape holds sauce differently, resulting in a new experience with every bite.
Cheesy Overload: Add more cheese options like mozzarella, goat cheese, or ricotta into your creamy sauce.
This not only boosts flavor but gives a delightful creaminess that’s hard to resist!
Tomato Alternatives: Experiment with cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for unique flavors.
These variations can introduce a sweet twist, making the dish stand out even more.

Feel free to explore these variations to create your delightful take on this One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta. And if you’re looking for more delicious recipes, enjoy our easy Turkey Noodle Soup or try these creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Shells. Happy cooking!

How to Store and Freeze One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps your One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta fresh and ready for quick meals.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 2 months. When reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight.

Reheating: Warm the pasta on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the sauce as it may thicken during storage.

One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe FAQs

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape like penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti in this One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly based on the thickness of the pasta you’re using.

How can I store leftovers of the One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta?
For sure! Place any leftover pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days. This keeps it fresh and delicious for quick meals during the week!

Can I freeze One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta?
Yes, you can! To freeze, store the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much.

What if I don’t have dried basil or oregano?
No worries! If you’re out of dried basil or oregano, you can absolutely use fresh herbs if you have them—just double the amount. Alternatively, a pinch of Italian seasoning can also work in a pinch!

Any tips for making this dish dairy-free?
Very! To make this One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta dairy-free, simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Use dairy-free Parmesan cheese for a delightful finishing touch!

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
I often encounter this, too! If your sauce becomes too thick during cooking or while reheating, just add a little vegetable broth or water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. This will help keep everything creamy and enjoyable!