One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

Name: One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz Penne Pasta; 1 can (14.5 oz) Diced Tomatoes; 1 cup Heavy Cream; 1 cup Fresh Basil Leaves, Chopped; 4 cloves Garlic, Minced; 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese; 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil; Salt and Pepper to Taste

Author: Noah Reed

Published: March 7, 2025

One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta dish served in a bowl

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One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is an inviting and rich dish that whispers comfort and satisfaction with every bite. This delightful recipe brings together perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a silky tomato cream sauce.

With the aroma of fresh garlic and basil wafting through your kitchen, it’s a dish that promises to transport you to a cozy Italian bistro. Not only does it delight the senses, but the ease of preparation makes it a must-try for any home cook.

Follow this step-by-step recipe to create a satisfying meal that the whole family will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe for its simplicity and delicious flavor. Crafted with minimal ingredients, One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is an ideal choice for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. It requires hardly any prep work and can be whipped up in around 30 minutes. Plus, the one-pot method means less cleanup after your culinary adventure, making it family-friendly and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy home-cooked meals without a lot of hassle.

Ingredients for One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

12 oz Penne Pasta: The star of this dish, penne pasta, offers a delightful bite thanks to its tubular shape.
1 can (14.5 oz) Diced Tomatoes: Sweet and tangy, these tomatoes provide a vibrant base for the sauce.
1 cup Heavy Cream: This adds a luscious creaminess that melds beautifully with the tomatoes.
1 cup Fresh Basil Leaves, Chopped: Bright and fragrant, basil elevates the dish with its aromatic freshness.
4 cloves Garlic, Minced: Garlic infuses the dish with its rich and savory essence.
1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Nutty and delicious, this cheese brings texture and depth to the sauce.
2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This enhances flavor and provides a light richness to the dish.
Salt and Pepper to Taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing the flavors of the dish.

Step-by-Step Directions

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by chopping the basil and mincing the garlic. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat until shimmering.
Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for about 30 seconds or until it becomes fragrant but not browned; this will provide a flavorful base.
Stir in Diced Tomatoes: Add the canned diced tomatoes to the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, infusing the oil and garlic with rich tomato flavor.
Cook the Pasta: Toss in the penne pasta along with enough water or broth to cover by an inch. Bring everything to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a simmer. Stir occasionally and cook until the pasta is al dente, which takes about 10-12 minutes.
Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until they are well combined, creating a creamy, comforting sauce.
Add Fresh Basil: Fold in the fresh basil leaves and season the dish with salt and pepper according to your taste.
Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy this dish hot, straight from the pot, sharing it with family and friends or indulging in a quiet moment with a bowl for yourself.

Tips & Tricks

Customize Your Flavors: Feel free to add a pinch of crushed red pepper for a spicy kick or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
Transform the Cheese: While Parmesan is classic for this recipe, try substituting with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
Make It Veggie-Loaded: Enhance nutritional value by adding spinach or drained canned chickpeas during the last few minutes of cooking.
Perfect Creaminess: For an even creamier texture, consider adding a bit more heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese if you have it on hand.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta can be paired elegantly with garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal. A crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. For a complete culinary experience, serve with your favorite white wine or sparkling water infused with lemon. Consider placing a basket of freshly baked bread on the table for an effortless touch that encourages sharing.

Nutritional Information

This creamy pasta dish is indulgent yet provides an excellent balance of carbs, fat, and protein. Each serving contains approximately 600 calories, making it a satisfying dish for both adults and children. While it leans toward indulgence, the addition of fresh basil and tomatoes contributes vitamins and antioxidants. Enjoy it guilt-free—just remember to enjoy in moderation!

Storing Tips & Variations for One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

To store your One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re looking for variations, consider incorporating grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for added protein. For a lighter option, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative. If you prefer a more herbaceous flavor, experiment by adding other fresh herbs like oregano or thyme.

Conclusion for One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

There’s no better time than now to dive into the delightful world of One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta. Its luscious, silky sauce, combined with fresh basil and a hearty serving of pasta, makes it a compelling choice for any meal occasion. Don’t hesitate; bring this comforting recipe to your table and enjoy the compliments from delighted family and friends!

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you have on hand, including fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti.

2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for that cheesy flavor.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

4. Can I add protein to this dish?
Certainly! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even cooked sausage are fantastic additions to make it a heartier meal.

5. Can I prepare it ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the base (sauce and pasta) ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve. Just add fresh basil right before serving for the best flavor.