Name: Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 250 g (½ lb) uncooked spaghetti; 500 g (1 lb) fresh tomatoes, chopped (or use 1 x 400 g tin of chopped tomatoes); 2 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 onion, finely chopped; 500 ml (2 cups) chicken or vegetable stock, use stock cube for convenience; 150 ml (¾ cups) double cream; ½ bunch fresh basil

Looking for a delicious and easy pasta recipe that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta! This dish is creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Great flavors: The combination of fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil creates a rich and flavorful sauce that will leave you wanting more.
Quick prep time: With just a few simple ingredients and one pot, you can have this dish ready in no time.
Perfect for meal prep: This creamy tomato pasta reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prepping ahead of time.

Ingredient Notes:

Uncooked spaghetti: Provides the base for the dish and absorbs the creamy tomato sauce.
Fresh tomatoes: Adds a bright and fresh flavor to the sauce, but you can also use canned chopped tomatoes.
Olive oil, garlic, and onion: Essential for building flavor in the sauce.
Chicken or vegetable stock: Adds depth and richness to the sauce. Use stock cubes for convenience.
Double cream: Creates a creamy and luxurious sauce.
Fresh basil: Adds a fragrant and herbaceous note to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and onion, sauté until softened.
Add fresh tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) and chicken/vegetable stock. Bring to a simmer.
Stir in the uncooked spaghetti and cook until al dente, stirring occasionally.
Pour in double cream and fresh basil, stirring until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with extra basil leaves.

Helpful Tips:

For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or milk instead of double cream.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Feel free to add cooked chicken, shrimp, or veggies for added protein and nutrients.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Use the best quality tomatoes you can find for the most flavorful sauce.
Don’t overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the sauce.
Fresh basil is key to the dish’s freshness, so don’t skimp on it.

Serving Suggestions:

This creamy tomato pasta pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or a glass of red wine. For a complete meal, add a side of roasted vegetables or grilled chicken.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or stock to revive the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh? Fresh basil is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use dried basil if that’s all you have on hand.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, this pasta reheats well, making it a great option for meal prepping.
Can I freeze this creamy tomato pasta? Cream-based sauces don’t always freeze well, so it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh or refrigerated.

Conclusion:

Give this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta a try and experience the creamy, comforting goodness for yourself. Don’t forget to share your feedback and any creative twists you add to the recipe! Enjoy!