Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe

There’s something magical about a dish that feels like a warm hug, isn’t there? This one-pot creamy tomato pasta is exactly that—a cozy, satisfying recipe that combines simplicity with rich, vibrant flavors. What I love most is that it’s a one-pot wonder, meaning fewer dishes to clean (who doesn’t love that?). Plus, the ingredients are likely ones you already have on hand. Whether it’s for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal, this dish is sure to win everyone over.

this RECIPE

A little backstory on my love for one-pot meals 🍝

I remember the first time I made this creamy tomato pasta—it was a rainy Tuesday, and I needed something comforting but didn’t have the energy to juggle a sink full of dishes. I decided to experiment with throwing everything into one pot, hoping for the best. As the aroma of garlic and tomatoes filled my kitchen, I couldn’t help but feel optimistic. When I finally sat down to eat, the creamy, basil-kissed sauce coated every strand of spaghetti perfectly. It wasn’t just a meal; it was an instant mood-lifter. Now, this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, especially on days when life feels a little overwhelming.

The humble origins of creamy tomato pasta

While creamy tomato pasta might seem like a modern twist, its roots are deeply inspired by classic Italian dishes like spaghetti al pomodoro. In traditional Italian cooking, simplicity reigns supreme—fresh tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and pasta come together in perfect harmony. Over time, adding cream to tomato-based sauces became popular, especially in countries like the UK and the US, to create a luscious, velvety texture. This recipe stays true to those foundational flavors while offering the convenience of a one-pot approach.

Let’s talk ingredients: fresh, simple, and flavorful

• Spaghetti: The backbone of this dish, spaghetti absorbs the rich tomato and cream flavors beautifully. If you’re out of spaghetti, fettuccine or linguine works just as well. For a gluten-free version, opt for your favorite gluten-free pasta.
• Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes bring brightness and acidity to the dish, but canned chopped tomatoes work wonderfully too (and are a great time-saver). When choosing fresh tomatoes, go for ripe, juicy ones—plum tomatoes are a fantastic option.
• Garlic and Onion: These two are the dynamic duo that forms the aromatic base of the sauce. For extra depth, you could even roast the garlic beforehand.
• Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics to perfection.
• Stock: Chicken or vegetable stock infuses the pasta with flavor as it cooks. If using a stock cube, dissolve it in hot water for an instant boost of savory goodness.
• Double Cream: This is what makes the sauce silky and indulgent. For a lighter option, you can use single cream or even a plant-based cream for a dairy-free twist.
• Fresh Basil: Basil adds a fresh, herby note that pairs beautifully with the tomatoes and cream. In a pinch, dried basil can work, but nothing beats the flavor of fresh leaves.

Kitchen gear: what you need (and what you can skip)

To make this recipe, you’ll need just a few essentials:

• A large, high-sided skillet or saucepan: This is key for fitting the pasta and sauce all in one pot. If you don’t have one, a Dutch oven works perfectly too.
• A sharp knife and cutting board: For chopping your onions, garlic, and tomatoes.
• A wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring and keeping the spaghetti from sticking together.
• Tongs: Not essential, but super handy for serving spaghetti without making a mess.

That’s it! No fancy gadgets or equipment required—this recipe is as straightforward as it gets.

Step-by-step: my foolproof method for creamy tomato pasta

1. Start with the olive oil

Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Give it a minute or two to warm up—this is when the magic starts.

2. Sauté the aromatics

Toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir them gently and let them cook until they’re soft, fragrant, and just turning golden. This step makes your kitchen smell amazing, so enjoy it!

3. Add the tomatoes

Stir in the chopped tomatoes and let them cook down for a few minutes. They’ll release their juices and start to caramelize slightly, adding depth to your sauce. Don’t rush this step; a little patience here pays off in flavor.

4. Pour in the stock and add the pasta

Here’s where it gets exciting—add your stock and nestle the uncooked spaghetti right into the liquid. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged. Give it a little stir to keep it from sticking.

5. Let it cook

Allow the spaghetti to simmer in the stock for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the pasta absorbing the liquid and the flavors melding together beautifully. If the liquid reduces too quickly, just add a splash of water.

6. Finish with cream and basil

Once the spaghetti is al dente, stir in the double cream and fresh basil. Let the dish sit for a couple of minutes so the flavors can settle in together.

7. Serve and enjoy

Dish up your creamy tomato pasta, garnished with a few extra basil leaves for that final touch.

Delicious variations to try

• Dairy-free option: Swap the double cream for coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream. The result is still creamy and delicious with a slight nutty twist.
• Add veggies: For a more colorful plate, toss in some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers.
• Protein boost: Add cooked shredded chicken, grilled shrimp, or a plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu.
• Spicy kick: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for a hint of heat.
• Herb swap: If you’re out of basil, fresh parsley or oregano can also complement the dish nicely.
• Seasonal twist: In the summer, use sun-ripened cherry tomatoes, and in the cooler months, try adding a handful of roasted butternut squash cubes for a cozy vibe.

How to serve your creamy tomato pasta

To make this dish dinner-party-worthy, serve it in shallow bowls with a generous garnish of fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil. Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for extra indulgence. Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette and some warm crusty bread for mopping up that dreamy sauce.

Drink pairings

This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with drinks that balance its richness. Here are a few ideas:

• Sparkling water with lemon or lime: The citrusy tang cuts through the creaminess perfectly.
• Iced herbal tea: A chilled chamomile or mint tea complements the fresh basil flavors.
• Homemade lemonade: Sweet and tangy, this is a refreshing match for the dish.
• Fruit-infused water: Think cucumber and mint or strawberry and basil—simple, light, and elegant.

Storing and reheating tips

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store any remaining pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or stock to loosen the sauce, as it tends to thicken when chilled. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure it warms evenly.

Scaling the recipe for any crowd

Whether you’re cooking for two or a crowd, this recipe is easy to scale. For smaller portions, simply halve the ingredients. If you’re feeding a larger group, double or triple the recipe and use a larger pot to accommodate everything. Just keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks—it may need a bit more stock if you’re making a bigger batch.

Troubleshooting common issues

• Pasta sticking together: Stir the pasta frequently during the first few minutes of cooking to keep it separated.
• Sauce too thick: Add a splash of water, stock, or even milk to loosen it up.
• Pasta undercooked: Let it simmer a few extra minutes, adding a little more liquid if needed.

Wrapping it all up

This one-pot creamy tomato pasta is the kind of recipe that feels like home—simple, comforting, and full of love. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, this dish is guaranteed to bring smiles to the table. Don’t be afraid to make it your own with the variations I shared, and let me know how it turns out!

FAQs

1. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Absolutely! While fresh basil brings a more vibrant flavor, dried basil works in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil.

2. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap out the spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Keep an eye on the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta can vary.

3. Can I freeze this dish?
Cream-based sauces don’t always freeze well as they can separate when thawed. However, you can freeze the tomato and stock mixture before adding the cream. Add the cream when reheating.

4. What if I don’t have double cream?
No problem! You can use single cream, heavy cream, or even a plant-based cream alternative.

5. What can I add for extra protein?
Cooked chicken, shrimp, or plant-based proteins like tofu or chickpeas make great additions to this dish.

Print