Save A comforting and flavorful pasta dish featuring a creamy tomato sauce, fresh basil, and tender noodles—all cooked together in one pot for easy preparation and minimal cleanup.
This creamy tomato basil pasta quickly became a family favorite because it combines simplicity and rich flavors into one satisfying dish.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) dried penne or fusilli pasta
- Vegetables and Aromatics: 1 medium onion, finely chopped, 3 cloves garlic, minced, 400 g (14 oz) canned diced tomatoes, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tbsp olive oil
- Dairy: 120 ml (½ cup) heavy cream, 50 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 30 g (2 tbsp) cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Liquids: 720 ml (3 cups) vegetable broth
- Herbs and Seasonings: 1 tsp dried oregano, ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional), Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste, 20 g (¾ cup) fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped, Extra basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
- Step 2:
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Add the tomato paste, canned tomatoes (with juices), dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
- Step 4:
- Add the dried pasta and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook, uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Step 5:
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, and cream cheese (if using). Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the pasta.
- Step 6:
- Add the chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 7:
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.
Save Preparing this pasta often leads to cozy family dinners filled with laughter and shared stories around the table.
Variations
For added protein, stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas at the end of cooking to make it more filling.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this pasta with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or a light side salad for a complete meal.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Save This one-pot creamy tomato basil pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner that tastes gourmet with minimal effort.
Recipe Help & Answers
- → How do I prevent the pasta from sticking while cooking in one pot?
Stir the pasta occasionally during cooking to ensure it cooks evenly and doesn't stick to the bottom. Using enough broth also helps keep the pasta moist.
- → Can I use different types of pasta for this dish?
Yes, penne or fusilli work well, but you can substitute with any similarly shaped pasta that cooks in about the same time.
- → What can I use instead of heavy cream for a lighter option?
Consider substituting with coconut cream for a dairy-free twist or using milk with a bit of flour to thicken the sauce mildly.
- → How do fresh basil leaves enhance the dish?
Fresh basil provides a bright, aromatic flavor that balances the richness of the creamy tomato sauce, adding freshness to each bite.
- → Is it possible to add protein to this meal?
Absolutely. Cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can be stirred in at the end to boost protein and make it more filling.