Description
Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a rich, comforting, and quick dinner recipe made with tender pasta simmered in a creamy tomato sauce—all in a single pot! This cozy, no-fuss pasta dish is perfect for busy weeknights and easy cleanup.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed or diced tomatoes
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite)
- 2½ cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 3 oz cream cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Add tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to enhance flavor.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and broth. Add pasta and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine.
- Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream cheese until melted and smooth. Add Parmesan and stir until combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Stir in baby spinach or kale near the end for added greens.
- Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or white beans for protein.
- Use red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Substitute cream cheese with heavy cream or plant-based alternatives.
- For a vegan version, use dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based broth, and nutritional yeast.
