Name: One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium onion, diced; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

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There’s something truly magical about a dish that comes together in one pot, especially when it’s creamy, dreamy, and bursting with the flavors of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil. As you stir the One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta, the rich aroma wafts through your kitchen, promising a delightful meal that makes your mouth water just thinking about it. rich and creamy side options perfect side for pasta dishes This is not just any pasta; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl that whisks you away to an Italian trattoria, even if you’re still in your pajamas. creamy dips and spreads.

I remember the first time I made this recipe. My friends gathered for a cozy night in, and little did they know they were about to be treated to a culinary masterpiece. As I served up heaping bowls of this creamy delight, their eyes widened with excitement. fresh and zesty condiment The laughter and chatter filled the room as we dug into our plates, each bite transporting us further into flavor paradise. It became an instant favorite, perfect for casual dinners or special gatherings.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is incredibly easy to prepare without sacrificing flavor
Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any table setting
The creamy texture perfectly complements the fresh basil and tomatoes, creating a satisfying dish everyone will love
It’s versatile enough for weeknight meals or hosting dinner parties, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion

My family couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was after just one bite of this creamy pasta. For more inspiration, check out this One Pan Spinach Artichoke Chicken Orzo recipe.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta: Any pasta works great here; I love using penne for its perfect sauce-holding ability.
Fresh Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes bring sweetness; opt for vine-ripened for the best flavor.
Heavy Cream: This adds that luscious creaminess that makes your taste buds dance with joy.
Fresh Basil: Use fragrant basil leaves for a burst of freshness; nothing beats fresh herbs.
Garlic: Choose fresh garlic cloves to infuse incredible flavor throughout the dish.
Onion: A sweet onion will caramelize beautifully and add depth to your sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate some cheese for that salty kick; it’s essential for finishing off the dish.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality olive oil to sauté your aromatics and enhance overall flavor.
Salt & Pepper: Season to taste; these staples are key to bringing out all the flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Sauté Your Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and golden brown—about 3-4 minutes.

Add Your Tomatoes: Toss in chopped fresh tomatoes along with salt and pepper. Cook until they soften and release their juices—around 5-7 minutes is ideal.

Incorporate the Pasta: Pour in uncooked pasta along with enough water or broth to cover it by about an inch. Stir everything together until well combined.

Stir in Cream: Once the pasta is al dente and most liquid has absorbed—about 10-12 minutes—lower the heat and stir in heavy cream until smooth.

Bursting with Flavor: Toss in freshly chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese right before serving. Mix until everything is creamy and deliciously combined.

Enjoy your One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta hot from the stove! Serve it up with extra Parmesan on top if you’re feeling indulgent—it’s totally worth it.

You just transformed simple ingredients into something extraordinary! Whether you devour this straight from the pot or serve it at dinner parties, everyone will ask for seconds (or thirds).

You Must Know

One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is simple yet divine
The creaminess paired with fresh basil transforms an ordinary dish into extraordinary
Enjoy the fragrant aroma wafting through your kitchen, making it hard to wait for your first bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing garlic and onions, then add tomatoes and pasta together to soak up all the flavors while simmering in creamy goodness. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the pasta for whole grain or gluten-free options. Toss in veggies like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream to restore its silky texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To elevate your One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta, always use fresh basil; it makes a world of difference
Avoid overcooking the pasta; al dente ensures the perfect bite
Lastly, don’t forget to taste as you go; seasoning is key!

Sharing this recipe always brings back fond memories of family dinners where everyone would rave about how creamy and delicious it was.

FAQ

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter option in this recipe.

Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day before and reheat gently when ready to serve.

How do I enhance the flavor even more?

Consider adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or grated cheese on top before serving.