Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines fresh tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and rich cream all in one pot. With minimal cleanup and maximum taste, it’s ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare while still delivering a satisfying meal that feels indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Cooking Time: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Minimal Cleanup: Since everything is cooked in one pot, you can enjoy your meal without the hassle of washing multiple dishes.
- Deliciously Creamy: The addition of double cream creates a rich sauce that perfectly coats the pasta and adds a luxurious touch to the meal.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adapt this recipe with seasonal vegetables or different types of pasta based on what you have on hand.
- Family-Friendly: With its comforting flavors, even picky eaters will enjoy this creamy tomato pasta.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- High-sided skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Chef’s knife
- Chopping board
Importance of Each Tool
- High-sided skillet: Ideal for cooking pasta in one pot, allowing for even heat distribution and ample space for ingredients.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring even mixing of ingredients.
- Chef’s knife: Essential for quickly chopping vegetables like onion and tomatoes with precision.
- Chopping board: Provides a stable surface for cutting, making food prep safe and efficient.
Ingredients
This creamy tomato pasta is a quick and comforting dish that combines fresh tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and rich cream. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe is easy and delicious.
For the Pasta
- 250 g uncooked spaghetti
For the Sauce
- 500 g fresh tomatoes (chopped) (or use 1 x 400 g tin of chopped tomatoes)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
For Cooking
- 500 ml chicken or vegetable stock (use stock cube for convenience)
For Creaminess
- 150 ml double cream
For Garnish
- ½ bunch fresh basil
How to Make Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a medium high-sided skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat for about 2 minutes until it shimmers.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté gently until they become soft, fragrant, and translucent—approximately 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Cook Tomatoes
Stir in the chopped tomatoes. Cook them until they start to caramelize slightly; this usually takes about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add Stock and Pasta
Pour in the stock and add the spaghetti. Ensure that all of the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid.
Step 5: Cook Pasta
Let it cook for approximately 15 minutes or until the pasta reaches al dente texture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Gently stir in the double cream and fresh basil. Allow it to sit for a couple of minutes so that all flavors meld beautifully together.
Step 7: Serve
Serve hot! Garnish with additional basil if desired to enhance both presentation and flavor. Enjoy your delicious Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta!
How to Serve Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Serving your Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is just as important as making it. Here are some suggestions to elevate your meal presentation and enhance the dining experience.
With Fresh Basil
- Add freshly torn basil leaves on top for a burst of flavor and a pop of color.
Pair with Garlic Bread
- Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.
Sprinkle with Parmesan
- Grate fresh Parmesan cheese over the pasta for an extra layer of richness.
Side Salad
- A simple green salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar complements the dish well.
Drizzle of Olive Oil
- Finish with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for added flavor and shine.
Lemon Zest
- Grate some lemon zest over the pasta before serving for a refreshing citrus kick.
How to Perfect Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
To make your Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and herbs will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure you cook the spaghetti just right; it should be firm to the bite for the best texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed to suit your preference.
- Add Protein: Consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like mozzarella or feta for a unique twist on flavor.
- Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes while cooking for a touch of heat.
Best Side Dishes for Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Complementing your Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread smeared with garlic butter is perfect for dipping into sauce.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add freshness to your plate.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized bring color and nutrition alongside the pasta.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil offers a delightful crunch.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing make a classic side that pairs well.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Charred corn brushed with butter provides a sweet contrast to the savory pasta.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus tossed in lemon juice adds elegance to your meal.
- Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, olives, and cheeses can serve as an appetizer before enjoying your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the aromatics: Neglecting to sauté the onion and garlic can lead to a bland dish. Always take the time to cook them until soft and fragrant.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking spaghetti too long can make it mushy. Aim for al dente, which means it should have a slight bite.
- Not using enough liquid: Insufficient stock can dry out the pasta. Ensure the spaghetti is fully submerged in the liquid for optimal cooking.
- Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season your dish may result in a lack of flavor. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper throughout cooking.
- Rushing the cream addition: Adding cream too quickly can cause it to curdle. Stir it in gently after the pasta has cooked for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta will keep for up to 3 days.
Freezing Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
- Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags; this dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
- Stovetop: Heat gently over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or stock if necessary to loosen it up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta.
How do I customize Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta?
You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or even protein such as chicken or shrimp to make it heartier.
Can I use canned tomatoes for Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta?
Yes! Canned tomatoes are a great alternative. Just ensure you choose good quality ones for better flavor.
What type of pasta works best in this recipe?
While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any short pasta like penne or fusilli that will hold onto the sauce well.
Is Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock, and you have a delicious vegetarian meal.
Final Thoughts
Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious without much fuss. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a warm bowl of creamy goodness!
Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta. This delightful dish combines the freshness of ripe tomatoes, the aromatic essence of garlic, and the rich creaminess that coats every strand of spaghetti, all prepared in just one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings, this recipe ensures minimal cleanup without sacrificing flavor. In just 25 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet is incredibly simple to make. Ideal for everyone at the table, even picky eaters will find it hard to resist this creamy tomato goodness.
Ingredients
- 250 g uncooked spaghetti
- 500 g fresh tomatoes (chopped) or 1 x 400 g tin of chopped tomatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 500 ml chicken or vegetable stock
- 150 ml double cream
- ½ bunch fresh basil (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a high-sided skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic for about 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook for another 5 minutes until slightly caramelized.
- Pour in stock and add spaghetti, ensuring it's fully submerged.
- Cook for approximately 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
- Gently stir in double cream and fresh basil; let it sit for a couple of minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional basil if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
