Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is the kind of dinner that checks every box for busy home cooks. It is comforting, affordable, and packed with fresh tomato flavor, all while using just one pan. This creamy tomato pasta recipe is made completely from scratch with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Unlike complicated pasta sauces, this tomato based pasta relies on fresh tomatoes, garlic, onion, and cream to create a silky, restaurant-quality sauce without extra steps. If you are looking for easy pasta recipes for two or a family-friendly dinner that feels special without the effort, this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is the answer.
Ingredients for Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Below is a detailed breakdown of everything you need to make this recipe successfully.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 250 g (½ lb) | Uncooked |
| Fresh tomatoes | 500 g (1 lb) | Chopped, Roma tomatoes work well |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | Extra virgin preferred |
| Garlic cloves | 3 | Minced |
| Onion | 1 medium | Finely chopped |
| Stock | 500 ml (2 cups) | Chicken or vegetable |
| Double cream | 150 ml (¾ cup) | Heavy cream in the US |
| Fresh basil | ½ bunch | Roughly chopped |
| Salt | To taste | Adjust after cooking |
| Black pepper | To taste | Optional |
Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta (30-Min Dinner)
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy one pot tomato pasta made from scratch with fresh tomatoes, garlic, onion, and cream. This easy dinner recipe uses one pan and delivers a silky tomato based pasta sauce perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
250 g (½ lb) uncooked spaghetti
500 g (1 lb) fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 1 x 400 g can chopped tomatoes)
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
500 ml (2 cups) chicken or vegetable stock
150 ml (¾ cup) double cream
½ bunch fresh basil, chopped
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium, high-sided skillet over medium heat for about 2 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté gently for 3–4 minutes until soft, translucent, and fragrant.
3. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and a pinch of salt. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the tomatoes soften and begin to caramelize slightly.
4. Pour in the stock and add the uncooked spaghetti, pressing it gently so it is fully submerged.
5. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened.
6. Reduce heat to low and stir in the double cream and fresh basil until fully combined.
7. Remove from heat and let the pasta rest for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed.
9. Serve hot, garnished with extra basil if desired.
Notes
Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the pan.
If the sauce thickens too quickly, add a splash of extra stock.
Fresh Roma tomatoes work especially well for this recipe.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredient Tips
Fresh tomatoes give this dish a lighter, brighter flavor, but canned chopped tomatoes work perfectly when fresh ones are out of season. If using tomato paste instead, add two tablespoons and an extra splash of stock to balance the sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is straightforward and beginner-friendly.
Heat the Oil
Heat the olive oil in a medium, high-sided skillet over medium heat for about two minutes until it shimmers slightly.
Sauté the Aromatics
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook gently for three to four minutes, stirring often, until the onion is soft, translucent, and fragrant without browning.
Cook the Tomatoes
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and a pinch of salt. Cook for five to seven minutes until the tomatoes soften, release their juices, and begin to caramelize slightly, forming the base of the sauce.
Add Stock and Pasta
Pour in the stock and immediately add the uncooked spaghetti. Press the pasta gently into the liquid so it is fully submerged.
Cook the Pasta
Allow the pasta to simmer for about fifteen minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The starch released from the pasta will naturally thicken the sauce.
Finish with Cream and Basil
Once the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened, gently stir in the double cream and fresh basil. Remove from heat and let the pasta rest for two minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with extra basil or freshly cracked black pepper if desired.
Serving, Storing, and Making Ahead
This creamy tomato pasta is best served immediately while the sauce is silky and smooth. For serving, pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of stock or cream to loosen the sauce and warm gently over low heat. While this dish is best fresh, you can prep the onions, garlic, and tomatoes in advance to save time.
Conclusion
Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta proves that comforting, flavorful meals do not need complicated techniques or endless dishes. With simple ingredients and one pan, you get a creamy tomato based pasta that feels indulgent yet approachable. Whether you are cooking for two or feeding the whole family, this recipe delivers consistent results every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta creamy without cheese?
The cream combines with the natural starch from the pasta and tomatoes to create a smooth, rich sauce without needing cheese.
Can I use tomato sauce instead of fresh tomatoes?
Yes, substitute one and a half cups of tomato sauce and reduce the stock slightly for the right consistency.
Is this creamy tomato pasta good for meal prep?
It stores well for up to three days and reheats best with a little added liquid.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can replace the cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cooking cream.