One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

Creamy tomato basil pasta cooked in one pot has saved dinnertime in my home more than once Its lush sauce coats tender noodles while burst tomatoes and basil bring garden freshness It is the fastest way to bring Italian comfort to the table with minimal dishes

The first time I tossed everything together for this pasta my family hovered impatiently because it smelled so wonderful and it instantly became one of our most requested dinners

Ingredients

• Dried pasta: such as penne or spaghetti ensures a classic bite and works well in one pot You want a good quality pasta made with durum wheat for texture
• Cherry tomatoes: deliver juicy sweetness and brightness When possible choose tomatoes that feel firm and smell fragrant for maximum flavor
• Medium onion: adds gentle background flavor Look for onions that are heavy and firm with papery skin
• Fresh garlic: brings aromatic depth Use fresh cloves rather than pre-minced for the best taste
• Fresh basil leaves: flood the sauce with herbal punch Always choose vibrant green leaves with no dark spots
• Baby spinach: gives extra nutrition and color especially handy if you need to use up greens
• Vegetable broth: is the liquid base adding savoriness Opt for low sodium for better control over saltiness
• Heavy cream: makes everything silky rich Pick the freshest cream with no additives for best results
• Grated Parmesan cheese: melts into the sauce for nutty savory flavor Go for genuine Parmigiano Reggiano if possible
• Olive oil: unlocks fragrance and adds silkiness to the sautéing step Use extra virgin olive oil with a fruity aroma
• Salt: controls seasoning and brings out the sweetness in tomatoes Choose fine sea salt to blend well
• Freshly ground black pepper: adds small bites of heat Grind right before use for the most aroma
• Crushed red pepper flakes: optional if you want a subtle spicy edge Use just a pinch to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Warm the Oil:

Begin by heating olive oil in your large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat Wait for the oil to shimmer before adding aromatics

Sauté Aromatics:

Add chopped onion and cook gently for two to three minutes You want it translucent and sweet Shift down the heat if it starts to brown Add minced garlic and cook just until fragrant about one minute Stir frequently to avoid burning

Soften Tomatoes:

Scatter in halved cherry tomatoes Cook for three to four minutes Use the back of your spoon occasionally to gently press some tomatoes releasing juices and creating base flavors

Simmer Pasta:

Pour in dried pasta broth salt pepper and if you enjoy mild heat red pepper flakes Stir so pasta is submerged as much as possible Bring to a lively boil then lower heat to medium low Cover the pot and let it simmer ten to twelve minutes Stir a few times to prevent sticking Pasta is done when it is al dente and most of the broth is absorbed

Make it Creamy:

Reduce the heat and stir in heavy cream grated Parmesan and spinach if you are using it Let it cook uncovered two to three minutes The sauce should become creamy and just a touch thickened

Finish with Basil:

Turn off the heat and fold in chopped basil The residual warmth releases the freshest basil aroma Taste and add more salt or pepper as needed

Serve and Garnish:

Spoon into shallow bowls and top with more Parmesan and a sprinkle of basil if you want Serve straight away for best texture

Save This

My favorite part is always those pockets of burst cherry tomato and I remember how my mom would let me help tear basil leaves fresh from our windowsill every summer Each time it simmers I smell home

Storage Tips

Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container Store in the refrigerator up to three days The cream sauce may thicken but loosens beautifully with a splash of broth when reheated Gently warm on the stove over low heat stirring often Freezing is possible but for the creamiest texture add both cream and Parmesan only after thawing and reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap out traditional pasta for gluten free or whole wheat options for dietary needs Plant-based cream and cheese are reliable choices for a vegan meal If tomatoes are out of season use top quality canned cherry tomatoes drained before adding You can also try swapping baby spinach for baby kale or arugula for a peppery spin

Serving Suggestions

This dish shines as a full meal but pairs beautifully next to a leafy green salad and a crusty slice of bread For an upgrade serve with roasted veggies or a citrusy fennel salad Leftovers make a tasty next-day lunch—sometimes I pack them in a thermos for a fast midday treat

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A Taste of Italy at Home

One-pot creamy tomato basil pasta stems from the speedy one-pot method favored by Italian home cooks and spirited busy kitchens Cooking noodles and sauce together not only means fewer dishes but each ingredient soaks up extra flavor It is a modern play on classic flavors making it both timeless and fresh for today's table

Common Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use your favorite short pasta shapes like fusilli or rigatoni. Adjust cooking time as needed so the pasta is al dente.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

For a lighter option, substitute with half-and-half or use a plant-based cream for a dairy-free variation.

→ How do I make this gluten-free?

Replace regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. Monitor closely to avoid overcooking, as gluten-free varieties cook differently.

→ Is it possible to add protein?

Absolutely. Add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp after the sauce is finished, or stir in cooked chickpeas for a vegetarian boost.

→ Can I omit the Parmesan cheese?

You may skip Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative. Nutritional yeast also adds a savory, cheesy flavor.