One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Easy Weeknight Meal

Are you ready for a quick and tasty dinner? This One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is your answer for busy weeknights. In just a few simple steps, you can whip up a rich, comforting meal that everyone will love. With fresh ingredients and creamy goodness, it’s a dish that pleases both kids and adults. Let’s dive into the easy recipe that will soon become your favorite!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 1 medium onion, diced

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes

- 4 cups vegetable broth

- 1 cup heavy cream

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

In this recipe, I use penne pasta. It holds sauce well and cooks quickly. Olive oil adds a nice richness. Diced onion gives sweetness, while minced garlic adds depth. Crushed tomatoes form the base of our sauce, bringing in that classic flavor.

Vegetable broth adds volume and flavor. Heavy cream makes the dish creamy and rich. Dried oregano brings an earthy touch. Salt and black pepper enhance all the flavors. Grated Parmesan cheese offers a salty bite. Fresh basil leaves add brightness and freshness.

If you enjoy spice, add red pepper flakes for a kick. This dish is all about balance. Each ingredient plays a role in creating a comforting meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Base

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This oil adds flavor and helps cook the veggies. Once hot, add 1 medium diced onion. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. This step builds a great base for your sauce. Next, stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Watch closely so the garlic doesn’t burn; it should smell great!

Combining Main Ingredients

Now, it's time to add the main ingredients. Pour in 1 can of crushed tomatoes and 4 cups of vegetable broth. These will create a rich sauce. Then, mix in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir well to combine everything. Bring this mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it bubble gently as you prepare for the pasta.

Cooking the Pasta

Add 12 ounces of penne pasta to the pot. Stir it in well to make sure all the pasta is submerged in the sauce. Cover the pot and let the pasta cook for about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Check for doneness by tasting a piece of pasta. It should be al dente, which means it still has a slight bite to it.

Finishing Touches

Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This will make your dish creamy and rich. Keep stirring until everything is smooth and evenly mixed. Finally, fold in 1/2 cup of chopped fresh basil leaves. This adds a burst of flavor and freshness. If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before serving.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Creamy Texture

To get a rich creamy texture, use heavy cream. It adds a nice thickness. If you want a lighter option, try half-and-half or coconut cream. Both work well, but they change the taste a bit.

For perfect pasta, cook it until it is al dente. This means it should be firm but not hard. Stir the pasta while it cooks. This helps it cook evenly and not stick together. Check it a minute or two before the time is up.

Flavor Enhancements

Want to boost the flavor? Add some extra seasonings. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds heat. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can brighten up the dish too. Try using seasonal vegetables. Spinach or zucchini can blend in well and add nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation matters! Serve the pasta in deep bowls. Top it with extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. A drizzle of olive oil adds flair too.

Pair your pasta with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A light white wine or sparkling water can enhance the flavors as well. Enjoy!

Variations

Protein Additions

You can easily boost your pasta with protein. Grilled chicken adds a tasty flavor. Simply slice the chicken and mix it in right before serving. Shrimp is another great choice. Cook it separately and fold it into the pasta. If you prefer vegetarian options, try chickpeas or lentils. They add protein and a nice texture.

Dietary Modifications

If you need gluten-free pasta, many brands offer great options. Look for penne made from rice or quinoa. This will ensure a similar taste and texture. For a vegan version, swap the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. You can also replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor.

Sauce Alterations

You can make the sauce richer by adding cream cheese or mascarpone. This will enhance the creaminess. Don't be afraid to mix in extra herbs, too. Fresh thyme or a pinch of rosemary can add depth. If you like spice, consider adding chili flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for a kick.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta fresh, follow these tips:

- Let the pasta cool to room temperature before storing.

- Use airtight containers to keep out air and moisture.

- Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

I recommend glass or BPA-free plastic containers. They are sturdy and safe for food.

Reheating Guidelines

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheating is key:

- Heat the pasta on the stove over low heat.

- Add a splash of water or broth to keep it creamy.

- Stir often until heated through.

If you want to freeze the pasta, do this:

- Place it in freezer-safe containers.

- Leave some space for expansion.

- It can last in the freezer for up to 2 months.

To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. Then, reheat as mentioned above. Enjoy your delicious meal again!

FAQs

How long does One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta last in the fridge?

One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. The pasta may soak up some sauce as it sits. To fix this, add a splash of broth or cream when reheating.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook the pasta and sauce, let it cool, and store it. When you are ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove. This will save you time on busy nights.

Is it possible to make this without cream?

You can make this dish without cream! Use a can of coconut milk or cashew cream instead. This keeps it rich and creamy. You can also use a mix of vegetable broth and a bit of flour for thickness.

What can I serve with One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta?

This dish pairs well with a simple salad or garlic bread. A fresh green salad adds crunch and balance. Garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the sauce. You can also serve it with grilled veggies for extra flavor.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?

To adjust the spiciness, add red pepper flakes to taste. Start with a small amount and increase it slowly. You can also leave them out if you prefer a milder flavor. A sprinkle of black pepper adds warmth too!

This blog covered how to make One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta. We explored the main ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You learned how to create a rich sauce and the best ways to store leftovers. With many variations, you can adapt it to your taste.

In the end, this recipe offers simplicity and flavor. Enjoy making this dish, and share it with friends!