Indulge in a delicious One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta that’s not only easy to make but utterly satisfying! With just a handful of ingredients like pasta, crushed tomatoes, and fresh basil, you can whip up a creamy, flavorful meal in just 25 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, this recipe is a must-try.
12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne or fusilli work perfectly)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
3 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, or nutritional yeast for a vegan substitute)
![To make One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta, gather these simple items: - 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne or fusilli work perfectly) - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 3 garlic cloves, minced - 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes - 3 cups vegetable broth - 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon sugar - Salt and pepper, to taste - 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, or nutritional yeast for a vegan substitute) These ingredients combine to create a rich and creamy pasta dish that everyone will love. You can swap out some items too. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta. If you want a lighter dish, replace heavy cream with coconut cream. Here are some helpful conversions for international readers: - 1 cup = 240 ml - 1 tablespoon = 15 ml - 12 oz (340 g) pasta = about 2.5 cups dry pasta For those who prefer visual aids, a standard measuring cup holds about 8 fluid ounces. This helps you see how much you need for liquids like vegetable broth or cream. For dry items, a kitchen scale can help ensure you get the right amount of pasta. Before you start cooking, gather your ingredients. This makes everything easier. Here’s what you need to do: - Chop: - 1 small onion, finely - 3 garlic cloves, minced - 1 cup fresh basil, chopped - Measure: - 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli) - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 can crushed tomatoes (14 oz) - 3 cups vegetable broth - 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon sugar - Salt and pepper to taste - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional) For this recipe, you’ll need a large pot. A sturdy wooden spoon works well for stirring. Now, let’s cook the One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta! 1. In your large pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s soft and clear. 2. Next, add the minced garlic. Cook for one more minute. You want to smell that great aroma. 3. Now, pour in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together and bring it to a gentle boil. 4. Carefully add the pasta. Make sure it’s submerged in the liquid. Stir well. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to stop the pasta from sticking. You want it to be al dente, with some liquid left. 5. Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Add the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and stir until the sauce is creamy. 6. Toss in the chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese if you’re using it. Mix it all together until heated through. 7. Taste your dish! Adjust the salt and pepper if needed. 8. Serve hot! Garnish with extra basil and cheese for a lovely finish. This dish takes about 25 minutes in total, and it serves four people. Enjoy the creamy goodness! To boost the flavor of your One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. This spice adds a subtle heat that brightens the dish. Fresh herbs, like parsley or thyme, also enhance the taste. You can mix these in at the end for a fresh burst. If you want a creamier sauce, try using more heavy cream or coconut cream. You can also add a little pasta water to adjust the sauce's thickness. This water adds starch, which helps the sauce cling to the pasta better. To reduce cooking time, use a high heat when boiling the broth and tomatoes. Once it’s boiling, add the pasta right away. This keeps the cooking time short but effective. When stirring, use a wooden spoon. It prevents the pasta from sticking and helps mix the sauce evenly. Be sure to stir often, especially in the last few minutes. This keeps the pasta from clumping together and ensures every bite is creamy and delicious. For the best results, follow the Full Recipe. This will guide you through each step with ease, ensuring a delightful meal every time. {{image_4}} You can easily make this dish fit your diet. For a vegan option, swap the heavy cream with coconut cream. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without dairy. If gluten is a concern, choose gluten-free pasta like brown rice penne or chickpea pasta. Here are some quick swaps: - Heavy Cream: Use coconut cream or cashew cream. - Parmesan Cheese: Try nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese. - Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles. Add your favorite proteins to this dish for a hearty meal. Cooked chicken or shrimp mix well with the creamy sauce. Just add them in when you stir in the cream. You can also play with flavors by adding different veggies. Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms add color and nutrition. If you want a spicy kick, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. Feel free to experiment with sauces too. A pesto swirl or sun-dried tomato paste can change the whole vibe of this dish. Each variation can make your meal unique and exciting! For the full recipe, check out [Full Recipe]. After cooking One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta, let it cool down. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep flavors fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to keep it away from strong-smelling foods. This keeps your pasta tasting great. For best results, use glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids. These containers help maintain moisture and flavor. Avoid using metal containers, as they can react with the food. To reheat One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta, use a pot or microwave. If using a pot, add a splash of water or broth. This helps bring back the creaminess. Heat on low, stirring often. This prevents sticking and burning. If using a microwave, place the pasta in a microwave-safe bowl. Add a bit of water or broth to keep it moist. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This ensures even heating and keeps your pasta creamy. Avoid overheating, as it can dry out the sauce. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can make this dish ahead. Cook it as normal and let it cool. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you are ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it creamy. What can I serve with One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta? This pasta pairs well with many sides. A fresh green salad with a light dressing is a great choice. Garlic bread also makes a nice addition. For a heartier meal, serve it with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. You will need about six medium-sized tomatoes. Peel and chop them before adding. Fresh tomatoes will give your dish a bright flavor, but make sure to adjust the cooking time. What if I don't have heavy cream? If you don't have heavy cream, try coconut cream. It adds creaminess and a hint of sweetness. You can also use whole milk or a mix of milk and sour cream for a lighter option. Each choice will slightly change the taste but will still be delicious. One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is a simple yet delicious dish. We covered all the necessary ingredients and how to prepare them. I shared tips to enhance flavor and speed up cooking. We also talked about variations for dietary needs and storage methods. This recipe is flexible, so feel free to experiment. Enjoy making this dish your own with different flavors and textures. Cooking should be fun and rewarding. Dive in, and savor each bite!](https://spoonfulsavory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/6e6b25a1-f0b9-4494-a283-58b78d0a1ab5-250x250.webp)