Looking for a quick and cozy meal? Try my One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta! This dish is simple, tasty, and perfect for anyone. With easy steps, you’ll have a comforting dinner on the table in no time. Plus, I’ll share handy tips to get the best creamy texture. Let’s dive in and make this delicious meal together!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
To make this tasty dish, gather these main ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Each ingredient plays a key role. The penne pasta cooks well in the creamy sauce. Crushed tomatoes give a rich flavor. Heavy cream adds smoothness. Vegetable broth enhances the taste. Onion and garlic provide a good base. Oregano, salt, and pepper bring in spices. Fresh basil gives a bright note. Parmesan cheese adds a nice touch, but it’s optional.
Optional Ingredients and Substitutions
You can customize this recipe to fit your taste. Consider these options:
– Protein: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
– Pasta Type: Swap penne for fusilli or farfalle.
– Cream Alternatives: Use coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free option.
– Veggies: Toss in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
These swaps keep the dish fresh and fun. Each change can lead to a new favorite.
Nutritional Information per Serving
This dish is not only delicious but also offers good nutrition. Here’s the breakdown per serving:
– Calories: Approximately 500 kcal
– Protein: 14 grams
– Fat: 25 grams
– Carbohydrates: 60 grams
– Fiber: 3 grams
The creamy tomato basil pasta gives a balance of carbs and protein. It’s a filling meal without being too heavy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Base: Sautéing Onions and Garlic
Start by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add one finely chopped medium onion. Sauté this for about three to four minutes until it turns soft and clear. Then, toss in three minced garlic cloves. Cook the garlic for one more minute. You want it fragrant but not burnt. This base adds depth to your dish.
Cooking the Pasta in the Sauce
Next, add one can of crushed tomatoes, one cup of heavy cream, and two cups of vegetable broth to the pot. Sprinkle in one teaspoon of dried oregano, one teaspoon of salt, and half a teaspoon of black pepper. Stir everything well to combine. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. Now, it’s time to add twelve ounces of penne pasta. Stir to coat the pasta in the sauce. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the pasta cook for about twelve to fifteen minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. When done, the pasta should be al dente.
Final Touches: Adding Basil and Cheese
After cooking, take the pot off the heat. Stir in one cup of chopped fresh basil. If you like, add half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese for extra creaminess. Let the pasta sit for a couple of minutes. This helps the sauce thicken slightly. Finally, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning. Add more salt or pepper if you need it. Your one-pot creamy tomato basil pasta is ready to serve!
Tips & Tricks
How to Perfect Creamy Texture
To get a creamy texture, use heavy cream. It adds richness and smoothness. Stir the cream in well after simmering the sauce. This helps it blend perfectly with the tomatoes. Make sure to let the pasta sit for a few minutes after cooking. This lets the sauce thicken up and coat the pasta well. If you want extra creaminess, add more cheese at the end.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is cooking the pasta too long. This can make it mushy instead of al dente. Keep an eye on the time and stir often. Another mistake is not tasting the sauce. Before serving, check the flavor. You might need more salt or pepper. Don’t forget to use fresh basil. Dried basil won’t give the same burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions for One-Pot Pasta
Serve your creamy pasta in deep bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for color and flavor. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. This adds a nice salty kick. Pair your dish with a simple green salad or garlic bread. This makes a complete meal that is tasty and satisfying. Enjoy every bite!
Variations
Adding Protein: Chicken or Shrimp Options
You can easily add protein to this dish. Chicken or shrimp works great. For chicken, use about one pound of boneless pieces. Cut the chicken into small cubes. Cook the chicken in the pot first. Sauté it in olive oil until it’s golden brown. This adds flavor to the meal. Then, remove the chicken and follow the recipe as usual. For shrimp, use about one pound of peeled shrimp. Add them in the last few minutes of cooking. They cook quickly and soak up the sauce.
Choosing Different Types of Pasta
While penne pasta is a favorite, you can switch it up. Use any pasta you like. Bowtie, fusilli, or spaghetti all taste good. Just remember to adjust the cooking time. Thinner pasta cooks faster, while thicker pasta takes longer. Always check the package for cooking time. This way, your pasta will be just right in the dish.
Spinach and Other Veggie Add-ins
Adding veggies makes this dish even better. Spinach is a top choice. Toss in a few handfuls right before serving. The heat will wilt it down nicely. You can also try cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini. Chop them small and add them with the onions. This adds color and boosts nutrition. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your favorite veggies!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers Properly
To keep your One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta fresh, let it cool first. Use an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture loss and keeps flavors intact. Store it in the fridge if you plan to eat it within three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it.
Reheating Tips for Best Results
When reheating, use a pan on low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to avoid dryness. Stir often to ensure even heating. You can also use the microwave. Heat in short bursts and stir in between. This keeps the pasta creamy and tasty.
Freezing Instructions for Meal Prep
To freeze, portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. Seal tightly and label with a date. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as mentioned.
FAQs
Can I make One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this meal ahead of time. Just cook the pasta and sauce as directed. Once done, let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it in a pot. Add a splash of broth to keep it creamy. Stir well to mix everything again.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan. Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream. Use vegetable broth to keep the flavors strong. You can skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan version. The dish will still taste great!
What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?
If you don’t have heavy cream, use alternatives like coconut milk or cashew cream. Both options add creaminess without losing flavor. You can also use a mix of almond milk and cornstarch for a lighter option. Just remember, adjust the amount to keep the sauce thick and rich.
This blog post covered how to make One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta. We explored key ingredients, simple steps, and helpful tips. You learned to avoid common mistakes and tried fun variations. Proper storage and reheating advice ensure tasty leftovers.
Enjoy this easy dish any night of the week. Feel free to get creative with your ingredients. You’ll love how quick and delicious it is!
