Go Back
- 12 oz penne pasta - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 can crushed tomatoes - 3 cups vegetable broth - 1 cup heavy cream - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese - Fresh mozzarella balls - 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - Salt and pepper to taste The main ingredients set the base for this creamy dish. Start with 12 oz of penne pasta. This pasta shape holds sauce well and cooks evenly. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This oil helps sauté the garlic, adding a rich flavor. Use 3 cloves of minced garlic. Fresh garlic gives a wonderful aroma. You will also need 1 can of crushed tomatoes. This adds a sweet and tangy base. Finally, use 3 cups of vegetable broth. The broth gives depth and makes the dish hearty. For optional ingredients, consider 1 cup of heavy cream. This cream adds richness and makes the dish creamy. You can also add ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Fresh mozzarella balls are fun to add on top. They melt beautifully and add a lovely texture. For seasoning and garnish, chop 1 cup of fresh basil leaves. Basil brings a fresh taste that pairs well with tomatoes. Use 1 teaspoon of dried oregano for a warm, herbal note. Finally, add salt and pepper to taste. These simple seasonings enhance all the other flavors. For the complete guide on making this dish, be sure to check the Full Recipe. - Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. - Add 3 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown. - Pour in 1 can of crushed tomatoes and 3 cups of vegetable broth. Stir gently to combine. - Add 12 oz of penne pasta to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil. - Reduce the heat to medium. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The pasta should be al dente and most of the liquid absorbed. - Reduce the heat to low. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and the chopped basil. Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well until creamy. - For extra creaminess, stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. - Serve hot, garnished with fresh mozzarella balls and more basil if you like. You can find the Full Recipe for this tasty dish to enjoy! - Avoid overcooking the pasta. Cook it just until it's al dente. This keeps it firm and tasty. - Stir frequently for even cooking. This helps every piece of pasta cook well and soak up flavor. - Use fresh basil instead of dried oregano. Fresh basil gives a bright taste that dried cannot match. - Add chili flakes for spice. A pinch can turn the dish into a delightful kick, making it exciting. - Garnish with fresh mozzarella balls and extra basil. This adds color and a fresh taste to your dish. - Serve with a side salad or crusty bread. Pairing with a light white wine also complements the meal perfectly. For a full guide on making this dish, refer to the Full Recipe. {{image_2}} You can add protein to make this dish heartier. Chicken is a popular option. Simply cook diced chicken in the pot before adding garlic. Cook until no longer pink, then add the next ingredients. For a seafood twist, shrimp works well too. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking. If you prefer vegetarian or vegan options, try chickpeas or lentils. They boost protein and add texture without meat. While penne is great, feel free to explore other pasta shapes. Fusilli or rigatoni can change the dish's look and feel. They hold sauce well, making each bite flavorful. If you need gluten-free options, many brands make rice or corn-based pasta. These work just as well in this recipe. Cook them according to package instructions for best results. To switch up the flavor, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes. They add a rich, tangy taste that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. Another option is to experiment with herbs. Besides basil, thyme or parsley can introduce new flavors. Mixing fresh and dried herbs may also enhance the taste. Each variation gives this dish a unique twist and can keep it exciting. For the complete recipe, refer to the Full Recipe. Store your creamy tomato basil pasta in an airtight container. Let it cool to room temperature first. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. When you reheat, use a microwave or a stovetop. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it creamy. Heat slowly to avoid burning. Yes, you can freeze this creamy pasta! Use a freezer-safe container and store it for up to three months. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. For reheating, use the stovetop. Add a bit of cream or broth to restore the texture. For the best taste, eat the pasta within three days if refrigerated. If frozen, enjoy it within three months for the best flavor. Watch for signs of spoilage, like an off smell or changes in color. If you see these, it's time to toss it. It takes about 10 minutes to prep the ingredients. Cooking the pasta takes around 10 to 12 minutes. In total, you will spend about 30 minutes from start to finish. This quick dish is perfect for busy days. Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook it, then cool it down before storing. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream as needed. If you want a lighter option, try using half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free choice, use coconut cream or cashew cream. These options still give a rich and creamy taste without the heaviness. Yes, this dish is great for meal prep! Cook it, then portion it into containers. It stays tasty in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just remember to reheat gently to keep it creamy. Check out the Full Recipe for more details. This blog post showed you how to make One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta. You learned the key ingredients, like penne pasta, garlic, and crushed tomatoes. We discussed how to cook the pasta perfectly and add optional flavors like heavy cream and Parmesan. I shared tips to enhance taste and present your dish nicely. You can also explore variations to suit your taste. Whether you plan to make it ahead or store leftovers, you have the tools to enjoy this dish. Now it’s time for you to try it and enjoy a delicious meal.

One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

Dive into the deliciousness of One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta! This easy recipe combines hearty penne with creamy sauce, fresh basil, and rich tomatoes, all cooked perfectly in one pot. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a comforting meal in just 30 minutes. Ready to impress your family or guests? Click through for the full recipe and make dinner a breeze! Enjoy a flavor-packed dish that everyone will love!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) penne pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

3 cups vegetable broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus more for garnish)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Fresh mozzarella balls (optional, for topping)

Instructions
 

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.

    Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth, stirring gently to combine.

      Add the penne pasta to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.

        Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, chopped basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until creamy and heated through.

          If desired, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese for extra creaminess.

            Serve hot, garnished with fresh mozzarella balls and additional basil leaves if desired.

              Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 30 mins | Servings: 4