One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Easy Dinner Guide

Craving a quick, tasty dinner? You’re in the right place! This One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is easy to make and bursting with flavor. You only need a few simple ingredients, and it all cooks in one pot. Say goodbye to messy kitchens and hello to a delightful meal! Let’s dive into this easy dinner guide and get cooking!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)

- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)

- 1 cup vegetable broth

Cooking Essentials

- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk)

- Fresh basil leaves, chopped

Seasoning and Garnish

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- Salt and freshly cracked pepper

- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making your One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta. Start with 12 ounces of pasta. I recommend penne or rotini for the best texture. Next, grab a 14-ounce can of diced tomatoes. This will add flavor and body to your dish. You will also need 1 cup of vegetable broth. This broth will help cook the pasta and keep it moist.

Now, let’s talk about cooking essentials. You will need 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. This oil will add richness to the sauce. For creaminess, use 1 cup of heavy cream. If you want a lighter dish, coconut milk is a great swap. Don’t forget fresh basil leaves. Chop them up to add freshness and bright flavor.

For seasoning, you’ll want 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. This herb pairs well with tomatoes. Season with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste. If you like cheese, adding ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese is optional but delicious.

These ingredients come together to create a warm, comforting meal. Enjoy the process of cooking. It’s simple, quick, and oh so satisfying!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Base

First, grab a large pot or deep skillet. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add three cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about one minute. You want it fragrant but not brown. Next, pour in one can of diced tomatoes with their juices, one cup of vegetable broth, and one cup of heavy cream. Stir everything together well. This mix creates a rich and creamy base for your pasta.

Cooking the Pasta

Now, turn up the heat slightly until the mixture begins to simmer. Once it bubbles, add in 12 ounces of your chosen pasta. Make sure to stir it well so the pasta is fully covered by the sauce. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the pot. Cook for about 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. You want it to be al dente, which means it should have a little bite to it.

Finalizing the Dish

When the pasta is cooked perfectly, take the pot off the heat. Fold in one cup of chopped fresh basil and one teaspoon of dried oregano. Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly cracked pepper as needed. For extra flavor, sprinkle on half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together gently. This allows the cheese to melt slightly and blend into the pasta.

Tips & Tricks

Perfect Pasta Tips

Choosing the right pasta shape: Pasta shape matters. For this dish, I suggest penne or rotini. These shapes hold sauce well. Their ridges and curves capture the creamy tomato sauce, making each bite tasty.

Avoiding overcooking: Watch your pasta closely. Cook it until it's al dente, which means firm to the bite. Overcooked pasta becomes mushy. Stir it often to prevent sticking. This way, you get that perfect texture.

Enhancing Flavor

Using fresh vs. dried herbs: Fresh herbs add a bright taste. I love using fresh basil in this dish. It gives a vibrant flavor. Dried herbs are handy too, but they are less potent. If you use dried oregano, add it early in the cooking.

Alternative seasoning suggestions: Try adding garlic powder or onion powder for more depth. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add heat. Experiment with your favorite spices. This is your dish, so make it yours!

Cream Sauce Alternatives

Dairy-free options: If you want a lighter dish, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. It adds a hint of sweetness and is dairy-free. It also keeps the sauce creamy and rich.

Substituting ingredients for lighter versions: You can also use low-fat cream or half-and-half. These options cut calories but still taste great. Adjust the seasoning if you change the cream type. This ensures your sauce remains flavorful.

Variations

Adding Proteins

You can boost this dish by adding proteins. Chicken and shrimp are great options.

- Chicken: Cook diced chicken breast in the pot before adding garlic.

- Shrimp: Add shrimp when the pasta is almost done. They only need a few minutes to cook.

If you prefer vegetarian options, consider these:

- Chickpeas: They add protein and texture. Rinse and add them with the tomatoes.

- Tofu: Use firm tofu. Cube it and sauté it with garlic for added flavor.

Different Vegetable Additions

Adding vegetables makes this dish even better. Spinach and kale work well.

- Spinach: Toss in fresh spinach right before serving. It wilts quickly for a lovely green touch.

- Kale: Chop kale and add it early in the cook. It needs more time to soften.

You can also try seasonal veggies like:

- Zucchini: Slice and add when you include the tomatoes.

- Bell Peppers: Dice them and sauté with garlic for extra flavor.

Flavor Infusions

To make your dish more exciting, try adding flavors.

- Red Pepper Flakes: If you like heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. Start small and taste as you go.

- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Chop these and mix them in for a rich, tangy flavor. They pair well with the creamy sauce.

These variations let you make this pasta your own. Enjoy experimenting!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container. Let it cool for a bit before sealing. Place it in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it. Use freezer-safe containers or bags to avoid freezer burn. Make sure to label them with the date.

Reheating Guidelines

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, the best method is the stovetop. Pour the pasta into a pan over low heat. Add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to help it heat evenly. Stir often to keep it from sticking. You can also use the microwave, but be careful. Heat in short bursts and stir in between to avoid dry spots.

Shelf Life

In the fridge, your pasta will last about 3 days. If you freeze it, aim to use it within 2 months for the best taste. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before eating. Enjoy your pasta at its best!

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. To meal prep, cook the pasta and sauce as directed. Let it cool down before storing. You can store it in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, just reheat on low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to help with moisture.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! You can swap penne or rotini with other pasta types. Good options include fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta shape. The goal is to get the pasta al dente. This way, it stays firm and tasty.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian/vegan?

Making this recipe vegetarian is easy. Simply skip the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based cheese. For a vegan version, replace heavy cream with coconut milk. This keeps the creaminess without any dairy. You can also add more veggies, like spinach or mushrooms, for extra flavor and nutrition.

This blog post covered a tasty pasta dish, from key ingredients to cooking tips. You learned how to prepare a creamy sauce, choose the right pasta, and enhance flavors with herbs. We also discussed ways to add proteins and vegetables for variety.

Finally, remember to store or freeze leftovers properly to enjoy later. Cooking can be fun and simple, and with these steps, you’ll impress everyone at the table. Enjoy making this dish again and again!