Creamy, rich, and super easy—this one-pot pasta is a family favorite!
Why settle for complicated pasta when you can have a one-pot creamy tomato masterpiece in under 30 minutes? This recipe eliminates straining, cooking everything together for a rich, velvety sauce that clings to perfectly al dente pasta. Perfect for busy nights or when you want restaurant-level comfort food with minimal effort.
Picky eaters request this on repeat, and it's ideal for small kitchens with limited countertop space. Just one pot, one pan—no mess, no stress. The secret lies in the balance of garlic, tomatoes, and heavy cream that simmers into a luscious sauce. Serve it with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh herbs for a finish that'll make everyone ask for seconds.
This dish is a game-changer for weeknight dinners. It's so easy that even beginner cooks can master it, yet it delivers the depth of flavor you'd expect from a professional chef. The best part? No need to clean multiple pots—just one pan and you're done!
Whether you're cooking for a family of four or just yourself, this one-pot pasta is a reliable go-to. The creamy texture comes from heavy cream, but we'll show you how to make it lighter if needed. Ready to dive into the recipe?
Why This Recipe Works
⏰ No Straining Required
The pasta cooks directly in the sauce, eliminating the need to drain it. The starchy water from the pasta creates a silky emulsion with the cream and tomatoes, giving it a restaurant-quality finish.
💰 One-Pot Efficiency
Just one pot for cooking, serving, and cleanup. No need for multiple utensils or excessive counter space—perfect for small kitchens.
👥 Family-Friendly
Picky eaters love the creamy texture, and the mild tomato flavor appeals to all ages. Add optional protein for extra heartiness without compromising the simplicity.
🌟 Viral Potential
The rich, glossy sauce and al dente pasta create an irresistible visual and taste experience that's perfect for social media sharing.
One-Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Rich, velvety, and made in one pot—no straining required!
🛒 Ingredients
- - 8 oz (225g) penne pasta
- - 2 tbsp olive oil
- - 4 garlic cloves, minced
- - 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- - 1/2 cup heavy cream
- - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- - Salt and pepper to taste
- - Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
👨🍳 Instructions
Heat Oil: In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
💡 Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent burning.
Add Pasta: Add uncooked pasta and stir to coat with the garlic-infused oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes, tossing occasionally.
💡 Don't skip this step—it helps the pasta absorb flavor.
Add Tomatoes: Pour in crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
💡 Choose high-quality canned tomatoes for best flavor.
Simmer: Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened.
💡 Keep an eye on the pot—add water if it becomes too dry.
Add Cream: Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and glossy.
💡 The cream reduces the sauce to a rich, velvety texture.
Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh herbs and additional Parmesan before serving.
💡 Serve immediately for the best texture.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Penne Pasta
The tubular shape holds the creamy sauce perfectly. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free penne.
Substitutions: Rotini, fusilli, or any short pasta.
Crushed Tomatoes
Provides the base for the sauce. Use San Marzano tomatoes for a sweeter flavor.
Substitutions: Tomato puree or passata for a smoother texture.
Heavy Cream
Creates the rich, velvety texture. For a lighter version, use half-and-half or coconut milk.
Substitutions: Whole milk (sauce will be less rich).
Parmesan Cheese
Adds salty depth. Use freshly grated for better melting.
Substitutions: Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for vegan options.
Pro Tips for Perfect One-Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
🔥 Pot Selection
Use a deep, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven to prevent burning and ensure even heat distribution.
🧂 Season Generously
Don't be shy with salt—this recipe needs it to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and the richness of the cream.
⏰ Timing is Key
Cook the pasta just until al dente—it will continue to cook as the sauce simmers.
🧀 Let it Rest
Remove from heat before adding Parmesan to avoid clumping. Stir until melted for a smooth sauce.
Variations & Customizations
Protein Boost
Add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded cooked chicken during step 2 for extra heartiness.
Veggie-Packed
Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini during step 3 for added nutrition and color.
Cheese Lovers
Add a splash of milk and extra Parmesan during step 5 for an even richer, cheesier sauce.
Spicy Twist
Sprinkle red pepper flakes with the garlic in step 1 for a subtle kick that complements the creaminess.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery crust contrasts perfectly with the creamy pasta.
- Green Salad: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness.
- Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant add smoky flavor and texture.
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or a crisp white like Pinot Grigio. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon complements the dish nicely.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Assemble the sauce (steps 1-4) up to 24 hours in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, add the cream and Parmesan, then reheat gently.
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken slightly when chilled—stir in a splash of water or cream when reheating.
Freezer Storage
Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Note: Cream-based sauces may separate slightly after freezing.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently. Avoid boiling to preserve the creamy texture. Add a splash of water or cream if the sauce becomes too thick.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes?
A: Yes! Use 4-5 large fresh tomatoes, peeled and chopped. They may require additional cooking time to break down and thicken the sauce.
Q: Why is my sauce too runny?
A: Cook the pasta for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the sauce to reduce. You can also simmer uncovered to evaporate excess liquid.
Q: How to prevent the cream from curdling?
A: Add the cream when the heat is low (not boiling). Stir continuously until the sauce is smooth and glossy.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all canned ingredients are gluten-free. Check labels for hidden gluten in seasonings.
Final Thoughts
This one-pot creamy tomato pasta is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With no straining, no cleanup, and no compromise on flavor, it's a recipe that will quickly become a household favorite. Whether you're cooking for a family of four or just yourself, this dish delivers restaurant-quality comfort food with minimal effort. The rich, velvety sauce clings perfectly to al dente pasta, making every bite a satisfying experience.
Don't let the simplicity fool you—this recipe is packed with depth and character. The balance of garlic, tomatoes, and cream creates a harmony of flavors that's hard to resist. Try it tonight and see why it's becoming a viral hit on Pinterest and beyond. Your taste buds—and your kitchen—will thank you!
