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One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta

A comforting one-pan dish that's rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 8 ounces pasta Any pasta type can be used.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes With juice
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Adjust to taste
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream For a lighter version, use half and half.
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Can be replaced with a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish Optional

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the olive oil to the skillet and let it heat for about a minute.
  • Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion to the skillet.
  • Cook the onion, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent.
  • Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 more minute, making sure it doesn't burn.

Cooking

  • Pour in the diced tomatoes, including the juice from the can, and stir to combine.
  • Sprinkle in the dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes, stirring again.
  • Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste.
  • Add the vegetable broth to the skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer.
  • Once simmering, add the pasta to the skillet, stirring to ensure it is evenly submerged.
  • Cover the skillet with a lid and let the pasta cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until it is al dente.
  • Check the pasta occasionally, stirring to prevent it from sticking, and adjust the heat if necessary to maintain a simmer.
  • When the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
  • Once the sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from the heat.
  • Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
  • Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more salt or black pepper if needed.
  • Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Notes

Pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month. Reheat gently with added broth if needed.
Keyword comfort food, creamy pasta, Easy Dinner, one pan pasta, Tomato Pasta