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One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta for Busy Weeknights

Close-up of creamy tomato basil pasta with fusilli and wilted spinach in a stainless steel pan.

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Make this quick, comforting One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta in under 30 minutes. This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a rich, velvety sauce perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

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  • 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
  2. Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the dry pasta to the pot. Stir well to prevent sticking.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot partially, and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring every few minutes, until the pasta is cooked al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed, creating a thick sauce.
  5. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese (if using) until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  6. Stir in the fresh chopped basil. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Serve immediately for a delicious weeknight pasta dinner.

Notes

  • For a vegan version, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream, and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.
  • If the sauce seems too thick after cooking, add a splash of reserved pasta water or broth until you reach your desired consistency.
  • Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor in this simple tomato sauce pasta.

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