One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta
One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta simmers pasta with diced tomatoes, garlic, herbs, broth, cream, and Parmesan until the sauce turns smooth and cozy. It is a practical weeknight dinner for busy nights when you want comfort food with less cleanup.
Equipment
- Wide deep skillet with lid
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 ounces, with juices
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Warm olive oil in a wide deep skillet over medium heat and cook the chopped onion until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
- Add diced tomatoes with their juices, dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, vegetable broth, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir in the pasta until it is mostly coated and covered by the tomato broth mixture.
- Cover and simmer over medium-low heat, stirring often, until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream until the sauce is smooth and warmed through.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, adjust the seasoning, and garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
Storage: Store cooled pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze small portions for up to 2 months, but expect the cream sauce to soften and separate slightly after thawing.
Reheating: Reheat gently with a splash of broth, water, or cream to loosen the sauce.
Best Tips: Stir often while the pasta starts cooking so the pieces do not stick together in the skillet.
Sauce Tips: Keep the heat at a steady simmer and add a little extra broth if the pan gets dry before the pasta is tender.
Variations: Add spinach, mushrooms, cooked chicken, shrimp, or white beans to make the pan more filling.