Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight meal: one pot creamy tomato basil pasta! Seriously, this dish has saved my sanity on so many busy evenings. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, and I love that it all cooks in one pot—minimal cleanup, yay! The rich, creamy sauce combined with fresh basil and juicy tomatoes creates a comforting embrace in every bite. Whenever I make it, my family gathers around the table, and I can see everyone’s faces light up. It’s become a staple in our home, and I know once you try it, it’ll become a favorite for you too! Trust me, you’ll love how simple yet delicious this one pot creamy tomato basil pasta is. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients List
- 8 ounces pasta (your choice)
- 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first, grab a large pot and heat up the olive oil over medium heat. You’ll want it nice and warm, but not smoking—just enough to get that lovely garlic aroma going!
- Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute. Keep an eye on it; you want it fragrant, not burnt. Wow, the smell already!
- Now, pour in those diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and vegetable broth. Stir everything together—it’ll start to look like a creamy dream!
- Next, add your pasta and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Give it a good stir to make sure the pasta is well-coated.
- Bring this delicious mixture to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally so the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom. You want that pasta cooked just right!
- When the pasta is tender and everything is perfectly combined, season with salt and pepper to taste. Just a pinch will do, but feel free to adjust!
- Finally, mix in the fresh chopped basil just before serving. This adds a burst of freshness that you won’t want to miss. And there you go—dinner is ready!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing pots!
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of heavy cream and juicy tomatoes creates a luscious sauce that’s simply irresistible.
- Quick and Easy: In just about 25 minutes, you can have a delicious dinner on the table, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite pasta, add protein, or toss in extra veggies for a personal touch.
- Fresh Flavor: The addition of basil right before serving gives it a vibrant, fresh taste that brightens the dish.
- Family Favorite: It’s a hit with both kids and adults, making it a go-to recipe for gatherings and family dinners.
Tips for Success
Alright, friends, let’s make sure your one pot creamy tomato basil pasta turns out absolutely perfect every time! Here are my go-to tips:
- Choose Your Pasta Wisely: While I love using penne or fusilli, feel free to experiment! Just keep in mind that different pasta shapes may slightly affect cooking time, so adjust accordingly.
- Don’t Skip the Salt: Seasoning is key! Adding a bit of salt to the water when cooking your pasta can elevate the flavors dramatically. Taste as you go to find that perfect balance!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh tomatoes and basil. They really amp up the flavor and make the dish feel extra special. But if you’re in a pinch, canned tomatoes work great too!
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you want an even richer sauce, don’t hesitate to add a little more heavy cream. You can also mix in some grated Parmesan for an extra cheesy touch!
- Mind the Heat: When simmering, keep the heat low and stir occasionally. This will help prevent the pasta from sticking and ensure even cooking. No one wants a clumpy mess!
- Leftover Love: If you have leftovers, add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to bring back that creamy consistency. Trust me, it makes all the difference!
With these tips, you’ll be a pasta pro in no time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Nutritional Information Section
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of my delicious one pot creamy tomato basil pasta. Keep in mind that these values can vary slightly based on the specific ingredients you use, but this should give you a good idea:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 10g
This estimate is based on typical values, and it’s perfect for those who are keeping an eye on their nutrition while still enjoying a comforting meal. Enjoy every bite knowing it’s both delicious and satisfying!
FAQ Section
Can I use gluten-free pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free option. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta can vary in how long it takes to become tender.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No worries! You can use half-and-half or even a combination of milk and a bit of butter for a lighter version. It won’t be as rich, but it will still taste delicious!
How do I store leftovers?
To store any leftover one pot creamy tomato basil pasta, simply place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It should be good for about 3-4 days. Just remember to give it a stir and maybe add a splash of broth when reheating!
Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even some cooked sausage would be fantastic additions. Just cook them separately and stir them in at the end for a heartier meal.
What should I serve with this pasta?
This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some crusty garlic bread for dipping. You could also serve it alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this amazing one pot creamy tomato basil pasta and now you have some leftovers? No problem! First, let it cool down a bit, then transfer it into an airtight container. This will keep it fresh and tasty in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just make sure to seal it tightly—nobody wants that tomato sauce smell lingering around!
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, here’s how to reheat them perfectly: I recommend using a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of vegetable broth or heavy cream to the pasta before reheating. This little trick will help bring back that creamy goodness and prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through, and voilà! You’ve got a delicious meal ready to go, just like the first time you made it. Enjoy every bite again!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying my one pot creamy tomato basil pasta, I love pairing it with some delightful sides that really elevate the meal experience. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with warm, buttery garlic bread! It’s perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce and adds a delicious crunch.
- Fresh Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta beautifully. It adds a refreshing contrast!
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss some seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them until tender. They bring a lovely color and flavor to your plate.
- Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a burst of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy pasta.
- Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: For those looking to add protein, grilled chicken or shrimp on the side can make this meal even heartier and more satisfying.
These sides not only complement the one pot creamy tomato basil pasta but also enhance the overall dining experience. Trust me, you’ll have a meal that’s not just delicious but also visually appealing! Enjoy your feast!
Print
One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta: 5 Simple Steps to Bliss
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious one pot creamy tomato basil pasta.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Pour in diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and vegetable broth.
- Stir in the pasta and Italian seasoning.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once pasta is cooked, season with salt and pepper.
- Mix in fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Use any pasta of your choice.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- For extra creaminess, add more heavy cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: one pot creamy tomato basil pasta
