Short Description
This Creamy Tomato Basil One-Pot Pasta is a quick and satisfying dish that combines tender pasta with a rich tomato sauce, enhanced by fresh basil and a touch of cream. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor with minimal cleanup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One-Pot Convenience: All ingredients cook together in a single pot, simplifying both preparation and cleanup.
Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of tomatoes, cream, and Parmesan creates a luscious sauce that clings to every strand of pasta.
Fresh Basil Aroma: Adding fresh basil at the end infuses the dish with a vibrant, herbaceous note.
Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe by incorporating your favorite proteins or vegetables.
Time-Efficient: Ready in approximately 30 minutes, making it ideal for quick dinners.
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Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Base Ingredients:
12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 can (14 oz / 400g) crushed tomatoes
3 cups vegetable or chicken broth (or water)
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Creamy Addition:
½ cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
Fresh Flavor Boost:
½ cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
1 tablespoon butter (for extra richness, optional)
Directions
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, broth, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine. Add the uncooked pasta directly into the pot, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid.
Cook the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, approximately 10–12 minutes.
Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and butter (if using). Continue to cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the pasta evenly.
Add Fresh Basil: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve: Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Serve warm.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4–5
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
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Variations
Add Protein: Incorporate cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage to make the dish more substantial.
Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and omit any meat additions.
Dairy-Free Version: Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.
Extra Vegetables: Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition and texture.
Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
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FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the pasta type.
Is it necessary to use fresh basil?
Fresh basil provides the best flavor, but if unavailable, you can use dried basil. Use about one-third the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it in advance and reheat as directed in the storage section.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
Allow the pasta to cook uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid further.
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What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Full-fat coconut milk, half-and-half, or a mixture of milk and a tablespoon of flour can be used as substitutes.
Can I add cheese other than Parmesan?
Yes, cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar can be added for a different flavor profile.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking to the pot?
Stir the pasta occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally kid-friendly. You may want to omit the red pepper flakes to reduce spiciness.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, substitute with an equivalent amount of peeled and crushed fresh tomatoes.
What side dishes pair well with this pasta?
A simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement this dish nicely.
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Conclusion
This Creamy Tomato Basil One-Pot Pasta offers a harmonious blend of rich flavors and creamy textures, all achieved with the convenience of a single pot. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal, this recipe delivers satisfaction with every bite. Its versatility allows for numerous adaptations, ensuring it can cater to various dietary preferences and tastes.
Creamy Tomato Basil One-Pot Pasta
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4–5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Tomato Basil One-Pot Pasta is a quick, comforting dish made with simple ingredients in just one pan. Rich with crushed tomatoes, aromatic garlic and onion, and finished with fresh basil and Parmesan, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup!
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
-
12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
-
1 tbsp olive oil
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 small onion, finely chopped
-
1 can (14 oz / 400g) crushed tomatoes
-
3 cups vegetable or chicken broth (or water)
-
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
-
1/2 tsp black pepper
-
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
-
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Creamy Addition:
-
1/2 cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free)
-
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
-
1 tbsp butter (optional, for extra richness)
Fresh Flavor Boost:
-
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
Instructions
-
Sauté the aromatics:
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds more until fragrant. -
Add pasta and liquids:
Stir in crushed tomatoes, broth, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Add uncooked pasta directly to the pot. -
Cook the pasta:
Bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed (10–12 minutes). -
Make it creamy:
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, and optional butter. Let cook 2–3 more minutes until sauce is creamy and thickened. -
Add fresh basil:
Remove from heat and stir in chopped basil. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. -
Serve:
Garnish with extra Parmesan and basil. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
-
Add protein: Cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage makes it heartier.
-
Cheesy twist: Mix in shredded mozzarella for a melty upgrade.
-
Make it vegan: Use coconut milk and nutritional yeast instead of cream and Parmesan.
-
Boost with veggies: Add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
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