If there’s one thing I love, it’s a comforting bowl of pasta that doesn’t require me to wash 15 different dishes afterward. That’s why this One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a staple in my kitchen. It’s rich, silky, and packed with flavor, yet ridiculously easy to make.
Whether you’re a pasta connoisseur or just someone who appreciates a quick pasta dish simple enough for busy nights, this one’s for you. Best part? Everything cooks in one pot! No extra pans, no mess, just pure deliciousness.
Before we dive into the magic, if you’re a pasta lover, you might also enjoy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta—it’s another one-pot wonder packed with bold flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One Pot, Zero Stress – No draining, no separate saucepans, just one pan and a whole lot of deliciousness.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
- Ultra Creamy & Flavorful – Thanks to double cream, garlic, and parmesan, every bite is luscious.
- Budget-Friendly – Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients without skimping on taste.
- Highly Versatile – Add chicken, shrimp, or even some crispy bacon for extra protein.
If you’re looking for something with a bit more garlic kick, check out Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. It’s pure comfort in a bowl!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The Base:
- Pasta – I use penne or spaghetti, but any shape works.
- Olive Oil – For sautéing and adding richness.
- Garlic & Onion – Because let’s be honest, every great pasta starts with these two.
The Sauce:
- Diced Tomatoes – The heart of this dish. You can also use roasted tomatoes for extra depth.
- Tomato Paste – Intensifies the tomato flavor.
- Chicken or Vegetable Stock – Adds a rich base.
- Double Cream – For that ultra-creamy, velvety finish.
- Parmesan Cheese – Because everything is better with cheese!
Seasonings & Extras:
- Basil & Oregano – Fresh herbs take this dish to the next level.
- Salt & Pepper – Simple but essential.
- Red Pepper Flakes – If you like a bit of heat.
Want to mix things up? Try swapping the tomatoes for pasta sauce with diced tomatoes and pesto, creating a unique tomato and pesto pasta twist!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, and sauté until they’re soft and fragrant. Your kitchen will smell like an Italian trattoria—trust me.
Step 2: Add the Tomatoes & Stock
Toss in your diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and a splash of stock. Stir everything together and let it simmer for a few minutes. This is where the magic starts happening!
Step 3: Cook the Pasta in the Sauce
No need to boil separately! Add your uncooked pasta directly into the pan. Pour in the remaining stock, ensuring the pasta is submerged. Let it cook, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Stir in the Cream & Cheese
Once the pasta is al dente, reduce the heat and stir in double cream and parmesan cheese. This is where your pasta transforms into something irresistibly creamy.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Finish with fresh basil, more parmesan, and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve immediately and enjoy every luxurious, creamy bite!
For an extra creamy variation, check out this Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe—it’s next-level indulgent!
Recipe Variations & Customizations
Want More Protein?
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon.
- Stir in cooked Italian sausage for extra richness.
Make It Dairy-Free?
- Swap double cream for coconut milk or cashew cream.
- Use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.
Go Low-Carb?
- Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
For another easy creamy tomato pasta variation, check out Bruschetta Chicken Pasta—it’s packed with fresh flavors!
Storage & Reheating Tips
Fridge:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat:
Warm on the stove over medium heat with a splash of stock or milk to loosen the sauce.
Freezing:
Not recommended—the cream can separate, leaving a grainy texture.
FAQ: Your Pasta Questions Answered
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Pasta sauce with diced tomatoes works perfectly in this recipe.
What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?
I love penne and fusilli because they hold sauce well, but any shape works!
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, but add the cream and cheese right before serving for the best texture.
One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Ingredients
- 12 oz 340g pasta (penne, spaghetti, or fusilli)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- ½ cup double cream
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes & Stock: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and 1 cup of stock. Let simmer for a few minutes.
- Cook the Pasta: Add uncooked pasta and remaining stock, ensuring the pasta is submerged. Cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Make It Creamy: Once pasta is al dente, reduce heat and stir in double cream and parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Season & Serve: Add oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan. Serve hot.
Notes
- For extra protein, add grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Swap double cream for coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Save a bit of pasta water before draining—it helps adjust sauce consistency!
This One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is everything you want in a weeknight dinner—fast, flavorful, and foolproof. It’s perfect for beginners yet delicious enough to impress.
If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to check out Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta—it’s another easy comfort food classic!
Happy cooking, and remember: Life’s too short for bad pasta!
