One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is exactly what it sounds like: a creamy, comforting pasta dish with a rich tomato sauce, all made in one pot for super easy cleanup. The sauce is silky and smooth, filled with that fresh tomato flavor and a little bit of cheese magic to give it a creamy touch. It’s the perfect mix of tangy and creamy that pasta lovers will swoon over.
I love making this on busy weeknights when I want something tasty but don’t want to spend a lot of time washing dishes afterward. The one-pot method means everything cooks together, soaking up all those delicious flavors without losing their texture. I like to stir in a handful of fresh basil or some spinach at the end to add a pop of color and freshness.
Serving this pasta feels a little like a warm hug on a plate. I usually sprinkle a bit of extra parmesan on top and sometimes add a side of garlic bread for dipping. It’s a simple recipe, but it always feels like a special treat—plus, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike, which makes it a reliable go-to dinner in our house.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Gemelli or fusilli work great here because their twists hold the sauce well. You can swap in penne, rotini, or any pasta you have on hand.
Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes add a fresh burst, but canned diced tomatoes are a convenient and tasty option. If you prefer, crushed tomatoes work too.
Vegetable broth: This layers flavor into the dish. If you don’t have broth, water with a pinch of salt is fine. For a richer taste, chicken broth also works.
Cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and smooth. Half-and-half is a lighter alternative, or you can use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Parmesan cheese: It adds sharp, nutty flavor and creaminess. Try Pecorino Romano as a substitute, or use nutritional yeast for a vegan twist.
How Do You Make Sure the Pasta Cooks Evenly in One Pot?
Cooking pasta directly in the sauce can be tricky. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Start with enough liquid so the pasta can cook fully without drying out. Stir often to keep pasta from sticking to the bottom.
- Keep the heat at medium-low once it boils, to simmer gently. This helps pasta cook evenly and absorb the tomato flavor.
- If the liquid evaporates too quickly, add a little more broth or water during cooking.
- Once the pasta is tender but still firm, stir in the cream and cheese right away to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
Taking your time and stirring often makes all the difference in this one-pot pasta experience!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or deep skillet – I recommend a wide one so everything cooks evenly and it’s easy to stir.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – this helps you stir the pasta and keep it from sticking to the bottom.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise broth, cream, and cheese amounts.
- Grater – for freshly shredding Parmesan cheese to melt smoothly into the sauce.
- Serving spoon – for dishing out your creamy pasta and garnish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch more red pepper flakes or chopped hot chili peppers for heat.
- Herb boost: Stir in chopped fresh basil, parsley, or oregano at the end for a fresh flavor.
- Protein punch: Mix in cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage to make it more filling.
- Cheese swap: Use mozzarella or provolone instead of Parmesan for different cheesy flavors.
One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (gemelli or fusilli recommended)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz/400 g) diced tomatoes or cherry tomatoes (about 1 ½ cups)
- 3 cups vegetable broth or water
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is quick and easy! You’ll spend about 5 minutes prepping the ingredients and around 12-15 minutes cooking everything together. In about 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, creamy pasta ready to enjoy. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Garlic:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring often, until it smells fragrant but isn’t browned.
2. Combine Pasta and Tomatoes:
Add the pasta, diced or cherry tomatoes, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well so that the pasta is submerged and everything is evenly mixed.
3. Cook the Pasta:
Turn the heat up to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer, uncovered. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking to the bottom. Cook for about 10-12 minutes until the pasta is just tender (al dente) and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
4. Make It Creamy:
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and fully coats the pasta. If the sauce feels too thick, add a little splash of water or broth to loosen it to your liking.
5. Season and Garnish:
Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you like a bit of spice, sprinkle in red pepper flakes. Stir in half of the fresh basil leaves for flavor.
6. Serve:
Dish up the pasta right away. Garnish with the remaining basil leaves and, if you like, a little extra Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy your warm, creamy, and satisfying one pot tomato pasta!
Can I Use Frozen Pasta for This Recipe?
It’s best to use dry pasta for this one-pot method. If you only have frozen cooked pasta, you can add it towards the end with the cream and cheese, but be careful not to overcook it as it can get mushy.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free or Vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream, and use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast to keep that cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess before serving.
Can I Add Vegetables or Meat to This Dish?
Yes! Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers during the simmering step, or add cooked chicken or sausage for extra protein and heartiness.
