If you love meals that combine simplicity, comfort, and incredible flavor, you are going to adore this One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that instantly feels like a hug in a bowl—rich, creamy tomato sauce lovingly clinging to tender pasta without a mountain of dishes to wash afterward. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or craving something cozy and satisfying, this recipe has you covered with minimal fuss and maximum deliciousness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe so special is how straightforward yet carefully chosen the ingredients are. Each component brings something valuable to the table—from the vibrant acidity of canned tomatoes, the fragrant warmth of Italian seasoning, to the silky texture that the cream cheese offers.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: A heart-healthy fat that sautés veggies and adds subtle depth.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Builds a savory flavor base with a touch of sweetness.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with classic aromatic punch.
- ⅓ cup sundried tomatoes, chopped (optional): Adds a chewy, intense tomato flavor—totally optional if your family is picky.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Concentrates tomato richness and deepens color.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: Brings a fragrant herbal note that ties everything together.
- 3 cups chicken stock or water: Liquid foundation that cooks the pasta and builds sauce flavor.
- 1 (15-oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Provides juicy chunks and essential tomato taste.
- 1 (12-oz) box short pasta shapes: Spirals or bow ties hold the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Salt & pepper, to taste: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan: Offers a nutty, salty finish that melts into the sauce.
- ¼ cup cream cheese (or ricotta, mascarpone, etc.): Creams up the pasta with luscious smoothness—feel free to use more for extra indulgence.
- Chopped flat leaf parsley (optional): A fresh, green touch for garnish and mild herbal brightness.
How to Make One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This step wakes up your kitchen with the inviting scent of cooking onions, garlic, and if you choose, sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté these until they just start to soften—about two minutes—then add the tomato paste and Italian seasoning. Cooking the tomato paste briefly helps mellow its edge and integrates those lovely herbs into the base.
Step 2: Add Liquids and Pasta
Pour in the chicken stock (or water) carefully, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift any flavorful bits stuck from sautéing. Next, toss in the canned diced tomatoes along with your choice of short pasta shapes. This is where your sauce and starch combine and start to transform. Season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that the Parmesan later will also bring saltiness.
Step 3: Simmer Until the Pasta Is Tender
Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let the pasta cook uncovered for about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You want the pasta to soften fully while soaking up the tomatoey broth. If the liquid seems to evaporate too quickly and the pasta appears dry before it’s cooked through, simply add a splash of extra broth or water.
Step 4: Stir in the Cheeses
Once the pasta is perfectly al dente and most of the liquid has developed into a thick sauce, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the Parmesan and cream cheese, marveling at how these add luxurious creaminess and a touch of tang. Sprinkle chopped parsley if you’d like a pop of color and fresh flavor. Let the pasta sit for a few minutes to thicken up before serving right away.
How to Serve One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
While the dish is stunning as is, a few simple garnishes can elevate it to restaurant-worthy status. Think fresh basil or more parsley to introduce brightness, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for smoothness, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you want a bit of heat. A few shavings of extra Parmesan on top look beautiful and add another layer of savory goodness.
Side Dishes
This pasta stands strong as a full meal, but it also pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, garlicky roasted vegetables, or warm, crusty bread to mop up every last bite of sauce. For a heartier feast, roasted chicken or grilled shrimp compliment the creamy tomato sauce beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pasta right in the pot for a casual, homey feel, or plate it in shallow bowls and artfully arrange the garnishes for an elegant touch. For family dinners, you might even turn it into a pasta bake by dumping the cooked dish into a casserole, topping it with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, and broiling until golden and bubbly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You’ll be thrilled to know this One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe tastes great as leftovers. Store any uneaten pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce settles into the pasta, making it even more flavorful the next day.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this pasta, it’s best to undercook the pasta slightly the first time and hold back some cheese. Freeze in a freezer-safe container, and it will last up to two months. When thawing, do so slowly in the refrigerator to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce and restore creaminess. Stir well and enjoy the comforting flavors as if freshly made.
FAQs
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken stock for vegetable broth, and you’ve got a delicious meat-free version without losing any depth of flavor.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Short pasta shapes like spirals, bow ties, or penne work wonderfully because they hold the creamy tomato sauce well and cook evenly in the one-pot method.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Fresh tomatoes can be used, but you’ll likely need more cooking time to break them down and develop a rich sauce. Canned diced tomatoes offer consistency and convenience, which suits this quick recipe perfectly.
What if I don’t have cream cheese on hand?
No worries at all. Cream cheese, ricotta, mascarpone, or even a splash of heavy cream will all create a lovely creamy texture—use whichever you prefer or have available.
How spicy is this pasta?
This pasta is mild by default, letting the tomato and cheese flavors shine. You can always add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you enjoy a little kick.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about a dish that combines ease, comfort, and incredible flavor in one pot, and this One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe does just that. It’s a go-to classic that never fails to impress and satisfies cravings with its rich tomato creaminess. I encourage you to give it a try—whether you’re a busy weeknight warrior or just want a joyful meal to share with loved ones, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites too.
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One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. By cooking the pasta directly in a savory tomato and chicken stock broth, it results in a creamy, flavorful dish with minimal cleanup. The combination of grated Parmesan and cream cheese lends a rich, velvety texture, complemented by the bright notes of onion, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Optional sundried tomatoes add a tangy depth, while fresh parsley provides a burst of freshness. Ready in just 30 minutes, this comforting pasta is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ⅓ cup sundried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Liquids & Pasta
- 3 cups chicken stock or water
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (12-ounce) box short pasta shapes (such as spirals or bow ties)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cheeses & Garnish
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- ¼ cup cream cheese (or ricotta, mascarpone, or similar; use more for extra creaminess)
- Chopped flat leaf parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté vegetables and sun-dried tomatoes: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped sundried tomatoes. Sauté until they begin to soften, about 2 minutes. Then stir in the tomato paste and Italian seasoning and cook for an additional 1 minute to deepen the flavors.
- Add liquids and pasta: Pour in the chicken stock, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. Add the entire can of diced tomatoes with their juice and then stir in the pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the pasta until it is tender, about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the pasta appears dry and the liquid is running low during cooking, add a splash of extra broth or water to maintain moisture.
- Incorporate cheeses and finish: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan and cream cheese until fully melted and incorporated, creating a creamy sauce. Stir in chopped parsley if using. Let the pasta sit for 3 to 4 minutes to thicken before serving to allow the sauce to set perfectly.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for chicken stock.
- Use any short pasta shapes you prefer or have on hand.
- Adjust the amount of cream cheese or substitute ricotta or mascarpone to achieve your desired creaminess.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
