Dreamy One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe

Crafting a delightful one pot creamy tomato basil pasta becomes a culinary adventure that promises comfort and flavor in every bite.

pasta lovers rejoice as this simple recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into something spectacular.

Minimal cleanup means more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.

Mediterranean-inspired ingredients dance together, creating a harmonious blend of rich tomato and fresh basil notes.

creamy textures and vibrant colors make this dish a feast for both eyes and palate.

Weeknight dinners just got a whole lot more exciting with this effortless, mouthwatering recipe.

You’ll want to savor every single twirl of pasta, celebrating the magic of uncomplicated cooking.

Different Takes On Tomato Basil Pasta Recipes

• Gluten-Free Zucchini Pasta Version: Replace traditional pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative that keeps the creamy tomato flavor intact.
• Vegan Coconut Cream Edition: Swap heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese to create a plant-based friendly option.
• Mediterranean-Inspired Herb Variation: Add crumbled feta cheese, kalamata olives, and swap basil for fresh oregano to bring a Greek-style profile to the classic recipe.
• Protein-Packed Chicken Upgrade: Incorporate diced grilled chicken breast at the final cooking stage to transform this vegetarian dish into a protein-rich meal perfect for muscle recovery.

FAQs

• Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?

Fresh basil offers a brighter flavor, but you can substitute dried basil. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil instead of the fresh leaves, adding it during the cooking process to help release its flavor.

• Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this pasta dish is vegetarian. It contains no meat products, using ingredients like pasta, tomatoes, cream, cheese, and herbs to create a delicious vegetarian meal.

• What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work great because they hold the creamy sauce well. These shapes help capture more sauce in each bite, making the dish more flavorful.

• Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative. Use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese substitute instead of Parmesan cheese to maintain a similar creamy texture and flavor.

Why Tomato Basil Pasta Works So Well

• Combine ripe tomatoes, aromatic basil, and creamy Parmesan for a taste explosion that feels like a gourmet restaurant experience at home.
• Easily adapt the recipe by adding protein like chicken or shrimp, or make it vegetarian by skipping meat altogether, perfect for satisfying different dietary preferences.
• Prepare a mouthwatering pasta dish in less than 30 minutes, ideal for busy families or anyone craving a quick, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

What Goes In Tomato Basil Pasta

• Pasta: Core ingredient that provides the base of the dish.
• Diced Tomatoes: Adds rich, tangy flavor and moisture to the pasta.
• Broth: Helps cook the pasta and adds depth to the overall taste.

• Onions, Garlic: Provide foundational savory base and aromatic notes.
• Basil: Fresh herb that brings bright, herbal freshness to the dish.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional ingredient for adding spicy kick.

• Heavy Cream, Parmesan Cheese: Create rich, creamy texture and add luxurious depth.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and adding smooth base flavor.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance overall taste.

How To Cook Tomato Basil Pasta In One Pot

Step 1: Sauté Aromatic Base

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Toss in chopped onions and cook until they become soft and translucent, releasing their sweet flavor.

This process takes about 3-4 minutes and creates a delicious foundation for your pasta.

Step 2: Bloom Garlic Flavor

Add minced garlic to the pot and stir quickly.

Let the garlic dance in the oil for about 30 seconds until its amazing aroma fills your kitchen.

Watch carefully to prevent burning, as garlic can turn bitter when overcooked.

Step 3: Build the Pasta Foundation

Pour in diced tomatoes with their juicy liquid.

Add uncooked pasta directly into the pot and stir everything together.

This method allows the pasta to absorb all the incredible flavors while cooking.

Step 4: Simmer and Cook

Pour in vegetable or chicken broth.

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.

Cover the pot and let it simmer gently.

Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking, cooking for 10-12 minutes until pasta reaches perfect al dente texture.

Step 5: Create Creamy Sauce

• Heavy cream
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped fresh basil leaves

Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and become luxuriously smooth.

Save a few basil leaves for a beautiful final garnish.

Step 6: Season and Enhance

Season with salt and pepper to your taste.

For those who love a little kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.

Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Remove the pot from heat.

Let the pasta sit for a few minutes, which helps the sauce become even more luscious and clingy.

The pasta will continue to absorb flavors during this short resting period.

Garnish with remaining fresh basil leaves and serve hot.

Enjoy your creamy, dreamy one-pot wonder!

Tips For Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

• Stir frequently during cooking to stop pasta from clumping together and ensure even cooking throughout the dish.
• Toast the garlic briefly to release its rich, nutty essence without burning, which can make the sauce taste bitter.
• Add Parmesan cheese gradually and off the heat to prevent separation and create a smooth, silky sauce texture.
• Adjust red pepper flakes to match your personal heat preference, from a subtle warmth to a spicy kick.
• Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version, or use whole wheat pasta for added nutritional value.

Save And Reheat Tomato Basil Pasta Right

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool the pasta completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, add a splash of broth or water to restore moisture, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until warmed through.
• Reheat in a pan over medium-low heat, adding a little extra broth or cream to prevent drying. Stir gently and frequently to maintain the creamy texture and prevent burning.
• Transfer cooled pasta to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Great Add-Ons For Tomato Basil Pasta

• Pair Wine with Pasta Elegance: Choose a crisp, medium-bodied Italian white like Pinot Grigio or Vermentino that complements the creamy tomato sauce's brightness and cuts through its richness.
• Enhance Flavor with Fresh Salad: Create a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette and shaved Parmesan to balance the pasta's creamy texture and add a zesty, peppery contrast.
• Serve Crusty Garlic Bread: Prepare warm, toasted sourdough or ciabatta bread rubbed with garlic and drizzled with olive oil to soak up the delicious sauce and provide a crunchy texture alongside the soft pasta.
• Complement with Chilled Sparkling Water: Add a refreshing elderflower or citrus-infused sparkling water to cleanse the palate between bites and provide a light, effervescent accompaniment to the rich dish.

Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe

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4.8 from 23 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy tomato basil pasta brings Italian comfort straight to your kitchen, promising a delightful symphony of rich flavors. Simmering with fresh ingredients and simple techniques, you’ll savor a restaurant-quality meal without complex preparation.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (penne, fusilli, or your favorite shape)
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves (roughly chopped)

Aromatics and Seasonings:

• 1 medium onion (finely diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat

Dairy and Optional Protein:

• 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional protein: Cooked chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage

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Instructions

1. Warm olive oil in a spacious pot over medium heat, sautéing onions until they turn translucent and become soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
2. Introduce minced garlic and quickly toast for 30 seconds, ensuring it releases its aromatic essence without scorching.
3. Cascade diced tomatoes with their natural juices into the pot, then gently fold in the pasta, creating a harmonious mixture.
4. Pour broth into the pot and elevate the temperature until the liquid reaches a rolling boil. Immediately reduce heat to medium-low, seal with a lid, and allow the contents to simmer, stirring intermittently to prevent pasta from adhering to the bottom, for 10-12 minutes.
5. Verify pasta has reached al dente consistency, then incorporate heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and the majority of fresh basil leaves, reserving a small portion for final garnish. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce transforms into a luxurious, velvety texture.
6. Calibrate the flavor profile by seasoning with salt and pepper to personal preference. For those desiring a subtle kick, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes.
7. Extract the pot from heat source and permit the dish to rest momentarily, allowing the sauce to further consolidate and thicken, creating a more indulgent dining experience.

Notes

• Swap heavy cream with coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk for a dairy-free version that maintains creamy texture.
• Quickly chop basil just before adding to preserve its bright flavor and prevent browning.
• Toast the pasta briefly in oil before adding liquid to enhance nutty undertones and prevent mushiness.
• For extra protein, toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or white beans during the final minutes of cooking.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 56 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 12 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg