Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: one pot creamy tomato basil pasta! It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, making it a total lifesaver when I’m short on time but still want something delicious. The best part? You throw everything into one pot, and voilà! No endless dishes to wash afterwards—just pure, creamy, tomatoey goodness waiting for you.
I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a hectic evening, and I had just returned from a long day. I was starving and didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. So, I grabbed a pot, tossed in my ingredients, and just let the magic happen. The aroma of garlic and fresh basil filled my kitchen, and I could hardly wait to dig in! Trust me, when you take that first creamy bite, you’ll feel like a culinary rockstar without all the fuss. It’s so satisfying to whip up something so flavorful in just about 30 minutes!
Ingredients for One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this dish sing! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 12 ounces pasta: I love using penne or fusilli, but feel free to swap in your favorite pasta shape! Just keep an eye on the cooking time.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This adds a lovely richness. You can also use avocado oil if you prefer a higher smoke point.
- 1 onion, diced: A medium yellow or white onion works beautifully. If you’re in a hurry, you can use pre-diced onion from the store!
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh is best for that fragrant kick, but if you’re really pressed for time, jarred minced garlic will do.
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes: Look for high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor. You can even use fire-roasted ones for an extra depth!
- 2 cups vegetable broth: Homemade is great, but store-bought works just fine. You can substitute with chicken broth if you’re not keeping it vegetarian.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This is where the creaminess comes from! If you’re looking for a lighter version, half-and-half or coconut milk can be used instead.
- 1 cup fresh basil, chopped: Fresh basil is a game changer here! Dried basil can be used in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be quite the same.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Always important to season! I like to use kosher salt for a little more control over seasoning.
These ingredients come together to create a comforting dish that’s bursting with flavor. Plus, the best part is that you probably already have many of these staples in your pantry or fridge! So let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
Alright, let’s dive into the magic of making this one pot creamy tomato basil pasta! I promise, it’s as easy as it sounds. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a hearty meal on the table in no time.
Step 1: Sautéing Aromatics
First things first, heat that tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it to shimmer, but not smoke! Toss in your diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté them until they’re softened and fragrant, about 3 to 5 minutes. Honestly, this is where the magic starts—the smell will make your kitchen feel like a cozy Italian bistro!
Step 2: Boiling the Base
Once your onions and garlic are looking all lovely and translucent, it’s time to add in the star ingredients: the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle boil. You’ll see those bubbles start to pop, and that’s when the fun really begins! Let it bubble away for about 2 minutes, just to let those flavors mingle.
Step 3: Cooking the Pasta
Now, here’s the part that really brings it all together—add your pasta! Make sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Let it cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8 to 10 minutes, until it’s al dente. Keep an eye on it, and give it a stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will soak up all that delicious tomato goodness, and you’ll be left with a delightful, creamy sauce.
Step 4: Creaming it Up
Once the pasta’s cooked just right, it’s time to stir in the heavy cream and the chopped fresh basil. This is where it transforms from good to absolutely heavenly! The cream adds that luscious texture, and the basil gives it that fresh burst of flavor. I can’t tell you how much I love watching the colors swirl together—it’s like a beautiful sunset in a pot!
Step 5: Final Seasoning
Before you serve it up, don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. This step is super important—just a pinch can elevate the dish to another level. Give it a final stir, and you’re ready to dish out this creamy, dreamy pasta. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Oh, let me count the ways! This one pot creamy tomato basil pasta is seriously one of my go-to meals for so many reasons. First off, it’s a total time-saver! With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have a plate of deliciousness ready to enjoy without spending your whole evening in the kitchen.
And the flavors? Wow! The combination of rich tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy goodness creates a comforting hug in a bowl. Every bite feels like a trip to Italy without the plane ticket. It’s hearty yet light, making it perfect for any occasion—whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining friends, or just treating yourself after a long day.
Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly! So, whether you’re a meat lover or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your week, this dish is a fantastic option. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve made this for friends who don’t even realize it’s meatless until I mention it. It’s just that good!
Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’s going to become a staple in your meal rotation. You’ll find yourself craving it again and again, and I promise you won’t be disappointed!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure you nail this one pot creamy tomato basil pasta! Here are some of my favorite tips that I’ve picked up along the way to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
- Adjust the Cream: If you want a lighter pasta, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream or swap it for half-and-half or even some almond milk. Just remember, the creaminess is what makes this dish so delightful, so don’t go too light unless you’re really aiming for it!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil makes a world of difference! If you can, try to use it instead of dried. Also, high-quality canned tomatoes can elevate the flavor immensely, so look for the best you can find. Trust me, it’s worth it!
- Timing is Key: Keep an eye on your pasta as it cooks. The goal is to get it al dente, which means it should have a little bite to it. This ensures it holds up well in the sauce and doesn’t turn mushy!
- Flavor Boost: Feel free to add in a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of richness. You can also toss in some sautéed veggies like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor!
- Season Gradually: When seasoning with salt and pepper, add a little at a time and taste as you go. This way, you can control the flavor and avoid over-seasoning. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
- Serve Immediately: This pasta is best enjoyed fresh! The longer it sits, the creaminess can thicken up more than you might like. If you have leftovers, just add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to loosen it up again.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a bowl of pasta that’s not just good, but absolutely fantastic! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about what’s going on nutritionally with this one pot creamy tomato basil pasta! It’s always good to have a sense of what we’re eating, right? Here’s the breakdown based on a standard serving size:
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 15g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 75mg
This pasta dish is hearty and satisfying while still being a great vegetarian option. It’s perfect for those nights when you want a comforting meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Just keep in mind that those creamy, dreamy calories can add up, especially if you’re going back for seconds! Enjoy every bite, and feel good about the deliciousness you’re treating yourself to!
FAQ Section
Got questions? No problem! Here are some of the most common queries I get about this one pot creamy tomato basil pasta, along with my answers to help you out.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you like—just keep an eye on the cooking time. I’ve had great success with penne, fusilli, and even spaghetti. Just remember, the thicker the pasta, the longer it may take to cook!
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No worries at all! If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess will vary a bit, but it’ll still be delicious!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this pasta is best served fresh, you can definitely make it ahead of time. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up.
How do I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for about 3 days. If you find it gets too thick after sitting, just add a little water or broth when reheating to bring back that creamy texture.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Of course! This is a great base for adding in your favorite veggies. Spinach, bell peppers, or even zucchini would be fantastic additions. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic at the start for an extra layer of flavor.
What’s the best way to serve this pasta?
I like to serve this creamy tomato basil pasta with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a few extra basil leaves on top for a pop of color and flavor. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal!
Can I freeze this pasta?
While I typically recommend enjoying it fresh, you can freeze the pasta. Just let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
Got more questions? Feel free to reach out or drop a comment! I’m here to help you make the most of this delicious dish!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk leftovers! You’re going to want to store any extra one pot creamy tomato basil pasta properly so you can enjoy it later without losing that delicious flavor and texture. Here’s how I do it:
First, let the pasta cool down to room temperature. This helps prevent condensation, which can make it soggy. Once it’s cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure to seal it up tight to keep that creamy goodness locked in! It’ll keep well in the fridge for about 3 days, so you can feel good about enjoying it again soon.
Now, when it comes to reheating, I recommend doing it on the stovetop rather than in the microwave. Just add the pasta to a pan over medium heat and splash in a bit of vegetable broth or cream to loosen it up. Stir it gently as it warms up, and voilà! You’ll have it creamy and delicious again in no time.
If you do choose to use the microwave, put the pasta in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between, and add a splash of liquid as needed to keep it from drying out. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t get too hot too fast!
And there you have it—easy storage and reheating tips to ensure your one pot creamy tomato basil pasta stays as delightful as the first time you made it. Enjoy every last bite!
Imprimer
One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta: 5 Steps to Blissful Flavor
- Temps Total: 30 minutes
- Rendement: 4 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Végétarien
Description
A simple and delicious one pot creamy tomato basil pasta dish.
Ingrédients
- 12 ounces pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Add crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth, bring to a boil.
- Add pasta and cook until al dente.
- Stir in heavy cream and fresh basil.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Use any pasta of your choice.
- Adjust cream for desired richness.
- Fresh basil enhances flavor.
- Temps De Préparation: 10 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 20 minutes
- Catégorie: Main Course
- Méthode: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sucre: 6g
- De Sodium: 800mg
- La graisse: 25g
- Graisses Saturées: 12g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 10g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 65g
- La fibre: 3g
- La protéine: 15g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 75mg
Mots-clés: one pot creamy tomato basil pasta
