One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a simple, one-pot pasta dish that cooks the pasta right in the sauce. It works because the starch from the pasta thickens the sauce for a creamy texture with minimal effort. This recipe uses common pantry ingredients and finishes with Parmesan and cream cheese for richness. Make it on busy weeknights for families or anyone who wants fast, reliable comfort food. If you like garlic-forward dishes, try one-pot creamy garlic pasta for a similar method.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The dish balances bright tomato flavor with a smooth, creamy finish and tender pasta. The sauce coats each noodle and gives a pleasing, uniform texture that works for most pastas. The one-pot method saves time and reduces cleanup while keeping flavors concentrated and consistent. The gentle simmer lets the pasta release starch into the liquid for a naturally thick sauce. For other easy pasta meals, compare this method to a slow-cooked option like creamy chicken pasta.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This ingredient list keeps the recipe simple and pantry-friendly.
- Olive oil: Use for sautéing the onion and garlic to build flavor.
- Onion: Finely chopped to soften and sweeten the base.
- Garlic: Minced for a bright aromatics layer.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Chopped to add concentrated tomato flavor.
- Tomato paste: Boosts depth and color in the sauce.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs for balanced seasoning.
- Chicken stock: Liquid to cook the pasta and make the sauce.
- Canned diced tomatoes: Provide body and fresh tomato pieces.
- Pasta: Use short pasta that cooks in the sauce.
- Parmesan: Freshly grated for savory, salty finish.
- Cream cheese: Adds creamy richness and smooth texture.
Measurements are listed in the recipe card.
How to Make This One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
This method keeps steps clear and easy for home cooks.
Step 1. Heat the oil and soften aromatics. Warm oil in a large pot over medium heat. Cook chopped onion and minced garlic until the onion is translucent.
Step 2. Add concentrated tomato flavors. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning. Cook briefly until fragrant.
Step 3. Deglaze with stock. Pour in chicken stock and scrape any browned bits from the pot. This lifts flavor into the sauce.
Step 4. Add tomatoes and pasta. Stir in canned diced tomatoes and the dry pasta. Season with salt and pepper, and bring to a simmer.
Step 5. Cook until tender. Simmer gently, stirring occasionally for even cooking. Add more broth if the pan gets too dry.
Step 6. Finish with cheese and rest. Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan and cream cheese. Let sit for a few minutes to thicken before serving.
Tips for Success
Follow these tips for consistent results.
- Use room-temperature dairy: Soften cream cheese slightly to help it blend smoothly.
- Stir occasionally: Prevents pasta from sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Adjust liquid slowly: Add small amounts if the sauce gets too thick.
- Taste and season: Check salt near the end after adding cheese.
- Use fresh Parmesan: It melts better and gives a cleaner flavor.
These steps keep texture consistent and deliver repeatable results.
Equipment Needed
- Large heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Box grater for Parmesan
- Can opener
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
Variations
- Vegetarian: Omit chicken stock and use vegetable broth instead.
- Spicy: Add red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.
- Gluten-free: Substitute gluten-free pasta and watch cooking time.
- Herby: Stir in fresh basil or parsley at the end for brightness.
- Protein add-in: Fold in cooked chicken or sausage before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Simple green salad: A light contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Garlic bread: Toasted slices for dipping in the sauce.
- Steamed vegetables: Broccoli or green beans add color and fiber.
- Grated extra Parmesan: Offer at the table for more umami.
- Cracked black pepper: Freshly ground for a final lift.
FAQs About This Recipe
This section answers common storage and prep questions.
How long does this pasta keep in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days. Cool completely before refrigerating. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce and restore a creamy texture.
Can I freeze the pasta?
You can freeze for up to three months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat slowly on low heat, adding broth as needed to return to the desired consistency.
What’s the best way to reheat without drying it out?
Reheat on the stove over low heat with a small amount of stock or water. Stir often and cover briefly to trap steam. Finish with a little fresh grated Parmesan for creaminess.
Can I prep this recipe ahead of time?
You can chop ingredients and measure spices the day before. Store prepped ingredients in sealed containers. Cook the dish just before serving for best texture and flavor.
How hard is this recipe for beginners?
The recipe is easy for beginners and requires basic skills. The one-pot method reduces steps. Timing is forgiving, and stirring prevents sticking. Follow the steps and the dish will produce reliable, tasty results.
Conclusion
For an alternative source and recipe details, see One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta – Savory Nothings.
One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Cook the chopped onion and minced garlic until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning. Cook briefly until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken stock and scrape any browned bits from the pot.
- Stir in the canned diced tomatoes and dry pasta. Season with salt and pepper, and bring to a simmer.
- Simmer gently, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender. Add more broth if the pan gets too dry.
- Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan and cream cheese. Let sit for a few minutes to thicken before serving.
