Print

Quick Creamy One-Pot Tomato Basil Pasta

A close-up, appetizing shot of penne pasta coated in a rich red sauce, seasoned with herbs, representing tomato basil pasta.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make this creamy tomato basil pasta in one pot in under 30 minutes. It uses simple ingredients for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound pasta (penne or rotini work well)
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk for vegan option)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (omit for vegan)
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Add the dry pasta to the boiling liquid. Stir well to prevent sticking.
  5. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  6. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese (if using) until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  7. Stir in most of the fresh chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
  8. Serve immediately, garnished with the remaining fresh basil.

Notes

  • For a vegan version, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a vegan Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast instead of dairy Parmesan.
  • If you prefer a richer tomato flavor, use fire-roasted crushed tomatoes.
  • This recipe is a great base; add cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchenslang.com/tomato-basil-pasta-quick-creamy-one-pot/