One-Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
This One-Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a perfect choice for easy dinner recipes. You’ll love how simple it is to create a delicious and satisfying meal with minimal cleanup.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Pasta: Use any short pasta shape you prefer.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes or tomato puree work too.
- Cream Cheese: Neufchâtel or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative can be used.
- Vegetable Broth: Chicken broth is a fine substitute if you prefer.
- Spinach: Fresh kale or a mix of greens can be added.
Ingredients
Main
- 12 oz short pasta (like penne or rotini)
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional for Serving
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Parmesan cheese, grated
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450 calories
- Tools Needed: Large pot or Dutch oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté Aromatics
In your large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Combine and Simmer
Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot. Stir everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
3. Add Pasta
Carefully add the uncooked pasta to the pot, making sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Stir in Creaminess
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the softened cream cheese until it’s fully melted and creates a creamy sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to your taste.
5. Wilt Spinach
Finally, add the fresh spinach to the pot. Stir it gently until the spinach wilts into the hot pasta. Serve immediately with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese if desired. This is one of the easiest dinner recipes you’ll make!
Variation Ideas
- Add cooked chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes for a richer tomato flavor.
- Swap spinach for mushrooms or bell peppers.
- Sprinkle with nutritional yeast for a cheesy, dairy-free tang.
Storage Instructions
You can store any leftover creamy tomato pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use gluten-free pasta? Yes, gluten-free pasta works well, but you might need to adjust the cooking time as it can cook faster or absorb more liquid.
- What if the sauce is too thick? If your sauce gets too thick, add a splash more vegetable broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Can I make this ahead of time? While best served fresh, you can prepare it a day in advance. The pasta may absorb more sauce, so you might need to add liquid when reheating.
- Is this recipe spicy? The red pepper flakes are optional. Without them, the dish is not spicy at all.
- What kind of pot should I use? A large Dutch oven or a deep, wide pot with a lid is ideal for this one-pot meal.
- Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add finely chopped carrots or zucchini along with the onions and garlic for extra nutrition in your easy dinner recipes.
