Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta – 25-Minute Comfort Food

Introduction

There’s something magical about the combination of pasta, tomatoes, garlic, and cream—especially when it all comes together in one pot. This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a warm, rich, and deeply satisfying dish that’s ready in just 25 minutes with minimal cleanup.

Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or craving something cozy and flavorful without the fuss, this recipe hits all the right notes. The sauce simmers gently with fresh tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and a splash of cream, creating a silky, savory coating for tender pasta.

It’s comforting, family-friendly, and endlessly adaptable—just right for busy weeknights, Meatless Mondays, or anytime you want a fuss-free dinner that still feels special.

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Ingredients Overview

This simple one-pot pasta relies on pantry staples and a few fresh additions to create a comforting dish with depth and flavor.

Pasta

• Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or fusilli work best in one-pot recipes.

• They cook evenly and hold sauce well.

• Use gluten-free pasta if needed, but adjust cooking time slightly.

Tomatoes

• Fresh cherry or grape tomatoes provide natural sweetness and burst in the pan.

• If not available, use canned crushed tomatoes or diced San Marzano-style tomatoes for a more pantry-friendly option.

Garlic & Onion

• Garlic brings classic flavor and warmth.

• A small diced onion or shallot builds the aromatic base.

Heavy Cream or Dairy-Free Alternative

• Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and velvety.

• For a vegan option, use unsweetened oat cream, cashew cream, or coconut cream (for a slightly sweet finish).

Olive Oil or Butter

• Olive oil is ideal for sautéing the aromatics and adds richness without heaviness.

• For an extra decadent version, use a mix of butter and oil.

Parmesan or Nutritional Yeast

• Optional but highly recommended for flavor and a bit of umami.

• Vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast are great dairy-free alternatives.

Seasonings

• Simple salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning go a long way.

• Add red pepper flakes for a gentle kick.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

This dish comes together quickly—all in one pan.

1. Sauté the Aromatics

• In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.

• Add ½ diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent.

• Stir in 3–4 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

2. Add Tomatoes & Pasta

• Add:

  • 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes (or 1 can crushed tomatoes)

  • 2½ cups vegetable broth

  • 8 oz uncooked pasta

  • ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning

• Bring to a simmer and stir occasionally.

• Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, or until pasta is al dente.

3. Stir in the Cream

• Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat and stir in:

  • ½ cup heavy cream (or dairy-free substitute)

  • ¼–½ cup grated Parmesan (or nutritional yeast)

• Simmer uncovered for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

4. Finish and Serve

• Taste and adjust seasoning.

• Optional: Top with fresh basil, extra Parmesan, or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Expert Tips:

• Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.

• Add the cream only after the pasta is fully cooked to prevent curdling.

• If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth or plant milk.

Flavor Variations:

• Spicy Creamy Tomato Pasta: Add chili flakes or a spoonful of harissa or Calabrian chili paste.

• Creamy Tomato Basil: Stir in chopped fresh basil at the end for a fragrant twist.

• Roasted Flavor: Use fire-roasted canned tomatoes or roast fresh tomatoes ahead of time for deeper flavor.

Additions & Swaps:

• Protein: Add chickpeas, grilled tofu, or vegan sausage.

• Greens: Stir in spinach or kale in the final 2 minutes.

• Cheese: Add a dollop of ricotta or vegan cream cheese for extra creaminess.

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

This creamy tomato pasta is comforting yet fresh, making it perfect for:

Serve With:

• A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with lemon dressing

• Garlic bread or toasted baguette

• Roasted vegetables on the side

Perfect For:

• Busy weeknights

• Comfort dinners for one or two

• Meatless Monday meals

• Kids and picky eaters

It also packs well for lunch the next day—just reheat with a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce.

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Nutritional & Health Notes

This dish balances cozy carbs with creamy texture, and you can easily adapt it to be lighter or more nutrient-dense.

Per Serving (Approximate, 4 servings):

• Calories: 390–450

• Protein: 12–14g

• Carbohydrates: 45–50g

• Fat: 18–20g

• Fiber: 4–5g

To make it lighter:

• Use light cream or unsweetened oat milk

• Add more veggies or greens to increase volume

• Cut back slightly on cheese

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FAQs

Q1: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

A1: Yes! Use 1 (14 oz) can of crushed or fire-roasted tomatoes for great flavor. No need to adjust liquid.

Q2: Will gluten-free pasta work?

A2: Yes—just keep an eye on cook time, as some GF pastas soften more quickly and may require less liquid.

Q3: Can I make this vegan?

A3: Absolutely. Use plant-based milk or cream and nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan for a dairy-free version.

Q4: How do I store and reheat leftovers?

A4: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk or broth to loosen.

Q5: Can I add more veggies?

A5: Yes! Try bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or even zucchini. Add firmer veggies earlier in the cooking process.

Q6: Does it freeze well?

A6: It’s best eaten fresh, but can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently with added liquid.

Q7: What can I use instead of cream?

A7: Unsweetened oat milk, coconut milk, or cashew cream are all great substitutes for heavy cream.

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