One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta: The Ultimate 30-Minute Dinner
Busy weeknights call for easy dinners that don't skimp on flavor. This one-pot creamy tomato basil pasta comes together in just 30 minutes, with minimal cleanup and maximum comfort. Perfect for when you need a quick, satisfying meal.
Why You'll Love This One-Pot Pasta
Let's face it: after a long day, the last thing you want is a sink full of dirty dishes. That's why one-pot meals are total lifesavers. This creamy tomato basil pasta cooks everything in a single pot—pasta, sauce, and all—so cleanup is a breeze. Plus, the pasta absorbs all that delicious tomato-basil flavor as it cooks, making every bite incredibly rich and satisfying. Ready in just 30 minutes, this is the perfect weeknight dinner the whole family will love.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients Checklist
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 12 oz penne or other short pasta
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)(optional)
One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
🥕Ingredients
Tap to check off as you go
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 12 oz penne or other short pasta
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
📋Instructions
- 1
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 2
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine, then bring to a gentle boil.
- 3
Add the pasta, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well, ensuring the pasta is mostly submerged.
- 4
Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened.
- 5
Remove from heat. Stir in fresh basil and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Serve immediately with extra basil and Parmesan on top.
💡 Pro Tips
- •Use a short, sturdy pasta like penne or rigatoni — it holds up well to long simmering.
- •Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- •For a thinner sauce, add a splash of reserved pasta water or extra broth.
Nutrition per serving
Pro Cooking Tip
To prevent the cream from curdling, make sure the pot isn't boiling too vigorously when you add it. A gentle simmer is key. Also, use full-fat cream for the best texture — light cream may separate.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy tomato basil pasta is a meal on its own, but you can easily dress it up. Serve with a side of crusty garlic bread to soak up every last bit of sauce. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a fresh, zesty contrast. For extra protein, top with grilled chicken or shrimp, or stir in some cooked Italian sausage when you add the pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
I hope you love this one-pot creamy tomato basil pasta as much as I do! It's the kind of recipe that makes weeknight dinners feel special without a ton of effort. Let me know in the comments if you try it — and don't forget to pin it on Pinterest for later! Happy cooking!
Written by
Elena HarperI'm Elena, a home cook turned recipe developer. On Cooking Word, I share simple, bold-flavored meals that bring people together.
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