One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe
Introduction
This One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a quick and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. With tender penne cooked in a flavorful tomato sauce enriched with cream and Parmesan, it’s both simple and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Step 2: Pour in the penne pasta, chicken broth, and marinara sauce. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Step 3: Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened, approximately 12 minutes.
- Step 4: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Step 5: Return the pot to low heat briefly until warmed through. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For a vegetarian option, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
- Add chili flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for a spicy twist.
- Mix in fresh basil or spinach at the end for added freshness and color.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a few minutes longer before adding cream.
Storage
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess if needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle works well. Just adjust the cooking time if needed.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter dish, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy.
PrintOne Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe
This One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a convenient and delicious Italian-inspired dish that combines penne pasta cooked directly in a savory blend of chicken broth and marinara sauce, finished with heavy cream and Parmesan for a rich, comforting flavor. Ideal for a quick weeknight meal, it requires minimal cleanup and delivers creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Finishing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Sauté Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Pasta and Liquids: Add the penne pasta, chicken broth, and marinara sauce to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Cook Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Stir occasionally and cook until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened, approximately 12 minutes.
- Finish with Cream and Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Return the pot to low heat and warm through to your preferred temperature, making sure the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the pasta warm, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer a few minutes longer after adding cream and cheese.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and melting quality.
- Can be garnished with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a fresh touch.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: one pot pasta, creamy tomato pasta, easy pasta recipe, penne pasta, quick dinner, Italian pasta, creamy marinara pasta
