Looking for a simple meal that bursts with flavor? My Creamy Tomato Basil One Pot Pasta is just what you need! This dish combines the goodness of fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil into a rich, creamy sauce—all cooked in one pot. You’ll save time on cleanup and enjoy every comforting bite. Let’s dive into the easy recipe that will make your dinner a delightful success!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Easy One-Pot Meal: This recipe simplifies your cooking process by combining everything in one pot, reducing both prep time and cleanup.
- Creamy and Flavorful: The addition of heavy cream and fresh basil creates a rich and comforting sauce that elevates the dish to a new level.
- Quick to Prepare: With a total cook time of just 25 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Customizable Ingredients: You can easily modify this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it versatile for any taste preference.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
Here’s what you need for your creamy tomato basil one pot pasta:
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces can of crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Substitutions for Ingredients
You can swap some ingredients if needed:
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Swap olive oil with avocado oil for a different flavor.
- If you have shallots, they can replace the onion.
- Canned diced tomatoes work if you prefer chunks.
- For a lighter option, try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Fresh oregano can replace dried if you have it on hand.
Tips for Fresh Ingredients
Fresh ingredients make this dish shine. Here’s how you can choose the best:
- Look for firm tomatoes with vibrant color if using fresh.
- Choose basil with bright green leaves and no brown spots.
- Select onions that feel heavy and have smooth skin.
- Always check for garlic that is plump and firm.
- Use vegetable broth with no added sugar for the best taste.
These tips will help you create a dish that is not only delicious but also bursting with fresh flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Base
Start by grabbing a large pot or a deep skillet. Pour in one tablespoon of olive oil. Heat it over medium heat. Once it warms up, add in one small onion, finely chopped. Sauté the onion for about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir it often until the onion softens and turns clear. Next, add in three cloves of minced garlic. Cook the garlic for one more minute. Stir constantly to keep it from burning.
Cooking the Pasta
Now, carefully pour in a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes and two cups of vegetable broth. Stir well to mix all the ingredients. Then, add in 12 ounces of uncooked pasta, like penne or fusilli. Sprinkle in one teaspoon of sugar, one teaspoon of dried oregano, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. Make sure all the pasta is covered in liquid. Cover the pot with a lid and let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to check on it. You want the pasta to be al dente and soak up most of the liquid.
Finishing the Dish
Once the pasta reaches the right texture, lower the heat. Gently fold in one cup of heavy cream. This will create a rich and creamy sauce. Then, add in one cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning if needed. If it needs more salt or pepper, add it now. Let the dish sit for a minute to let the flavors mix. Serve it warm, generously plated. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and an extra touch of basil for a lovely finish. Enjoy your delicious creamy tomato basil one pot pasta!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Creamy Consistency
To get that creamy texture, use heavy cream. It adds rich flavor. Stir it in slowly after cooking the pasta. This step helps blend the cream with the sauce. If it’s too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth. For extra creaminess, try mixing in some grated Parmesan as you stir.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. Let the pasta cool down first. It can last in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water. This helps loosen the sauce and keeps it creamy.
Pairing Suggestions
For a great meal, pair this pasta with a fresh salad. A simple green salad works well. You might also enjoy garlic bread on the side. These options add crunch and flavor to your meal. For a drink, a light white wine pairs nicely too.
Pro Tips
- Tip Title: Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh basil and high-quality tomatoes for a vibrant flavor that elevates your dish.
- Tip Title: Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter sauce, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or use a non-dairy alternative.
- Tip Title: Pasta Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks; different brands may require slightly different times for perfect al dente.
- Tip Title: Flavor Boost: Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or a splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth.
Variations
Protein Additions
You can easily add protein to your creamy tomato basil one pot pasta. Try cooked chicken for a hearty meal. Just shred or chop it and mix it in at the end. Shrimp also works well. Cook them quickly in the pot before adding the cream. For a meaty touch, use Italian sausage. Brown it first with the onions for great flavor. Tofu is a good choice for a plant-based option. Just cube it and add it with the pasta.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
To keep this dish vegetarian, simply skip any meat. Use vegetable broth and add more veggies. Spinach or zucchini can boost nutrition and flavor. For a vegan dish, swap heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream. This keeps the dish creamy while adding a nice twist. You can also use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Seasonal Ingredient Swaps
Seasonal ingredients can make this dish even better. In spring, add fresh peas or asparagus for a pop of color. Summer calls for ripe tomatoes, which you can chop and mix in instead of canned. In fall, roasted butternut squash adds sweetness and warmth. Winter is great for kale or Swiss chard, which you can add for a hearty touch. Adjust the herbs too; use fresh thyme or rosemary for a new flavor profile.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. This helps keep the pasta fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to seal the container well to prevent drying out.
Reheating Instructions
When you want to enjoy your leftovers, you can easily reheat them. Place the pasta in a pot over low heat. Add a splash of vegetable broth or water for moisture. Stir often until heated through. You can also microwave it in a bowl, covered with a plate. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between until warm.
Freezing Tips
If you want to save it for later, freezing is a great option. Let the pasta cool down completely. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use different pasta types?
Yes, you can use different pasta types for this creamy tomato basil one pot pasta. Penne and fusilli work great, but you can try spaghetti or rigatoni. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if the pasta shape is different. The key is to ensure the pasta cooks evenly in the sauce.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
To add spice, you can include red pepper flakes. Start with a pinch and taste. You can also add chopped fresh chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce. Mix these into the dish when you add the garlic for the best flavor. Adjust the heat level to your liking!
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free choice, try coconut cream or cashew cream. Both will add richness without dairy. Just stir in your chosen substitute at the end, just like with heavy cream, for a creamy finish.
This blog post explains how to create a delicious pasta dish. We covered key ingredients, swaps, and tips for freshness. You learned step-by-step instructions from prepping the base to finishing touches. We shared tricks for a creamy texture and safe storage methods. You gained ideas for protein and seasonal swaps.
In the end, creating this dish can be fun and versatile. Feel free to get creative with your choices! Enjoy your cooking journey.
