Description
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a quick, comforting dinner made in under 30 minutes. Rich tomato flavor, creamy sauce, and minimal cleanup make it perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
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12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
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2 tablespoons tomato paste
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2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
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1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/2 teaspoon dried basil
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1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
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1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
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Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent (about 4 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
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Add tomato base: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add crushed tomatoes, broth, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.
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Add pasta: Bring to a simmer. Add pasta, stir to coat and submerge. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
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Make it creamy: Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan. Cook for 2–3 minutes until creamy and heated through.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan, if desired.
Notes
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Protein Add-ins: Stir in cooked chicken, sausage, or shrimp.
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Vegan Option: Use coconut or plant-based cream and vegan Parmesan.
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Extra Veggies: Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
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Spicy Variation: Use more red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
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Storage: Refrigerate up to 4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently with added broth or cream if needed.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: one pot
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: one pot pasta, creamy tomato pasta, quick pasta dinner, weeknight pasta recipe, 30-minute meals