One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

So, you’re hungry, the sink is already full of dishes, and your energy levels are on “barely surviving”? Say hello to your new best friend — One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta. It’s the unicorn of weeknight dinners: creamy, comforting, and requires exactly one pot. No straining, no drama, just carb-fueled happiness in 25 minutes.

Why This Recipe is Awesome

• One pot. That’s right — pasta cooks right in the sauce. Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.

• Creamy without being heavy. It’s luxurious, not coma-inducing.

• Budget-friendly. Pantry ingredients, restaurant results.

• Fast. From fridge to fork in under 30 minutes.

• Tastes like comfort with a side of “I totally have my life together.”

It’s like ordering takeout from your own kitchen — but cheaper and with better lighting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 8 oz pasta – spaghetti, penne, or whatever shape your heart desires.

• 1 tbsp olive oil – keeps it smooth and glossy.

• 3 cloves garlic, minced – flavor hero.

• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes – the base of greatness.

• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth – helps the pasta cook right in the sauce.

• ½ cup heavy cream – because we like our pasta silky.

• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese – for that creamy, salty punch.

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes – optional, but a little kick never hurts.

• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs – or oregano + basil combo.

• Salt & pepper, always.

• Fresh basil, chopped – the star garnish.

Optional bonus: a sprinkle of mozzarella if you want it extra gooey.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat things up. In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).

2. Add tomatoes and broth. Stir them in like you mean it. This is your sauce base.

3. Bring to a boil. Add uncooked pasta directly into the pot. Yup — no pre-boil, no draining.

4. Season the magic. Add Italian herbs, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Simmer. Cook 10–12 minutes, uncovered, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

6. Go creamy. Lower heat, stir in heavy cream and parmesan. Watch it transform into silky perfection.

7. Finish strong. Toss in chopped basil and taste-test (you know you will). Adjust seasoning as needed.

8. Serve immediately. Extra cheese on top? Always a yes.

Boom. One pot, one spoon, and a whole lot of pasta glory.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Adding all the broth at once. Start with less and add more as needed. Sauce, not soup.

• Overcooking pasta. Mushy noodles are sadness in edible form.

• Forgetting to stir. The pasta will clump and you’ll cry later.

• Using skim milk instead of cream. Don’t. Just… don’t.

• Skipping the basil. It’s the soul of this dish. Respect the basil.

Alternatives & Substitutions

• Go vegan: skip cream and cheese, use coconut milk and nutritional yeast.

• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta — the sauce doesn’t judge.

• Swap broth for water if you must (but flavor will cry a little).

• Add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for bonus texture.

• No parmesan? Try pecorino or even cream cheese for a twist.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Sure, but it’s best fresh. The sauce thickens over time — just add a splash of broth when reheating.

Q: Can I use milk instead of cream?
A: You can, but it won’t be as luscious. Cream = happiness.

Q: Can I add chicken or shrimp?
A: Absolutely. Sear them first, set aside, then toss back in before serving.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Go for it! Just use a bigger pot and stir a little more often.

Q: What if my sauce is too thin?
A: Let it simmer another minute or add extra parmesan. Cheese fixes everything.

Q: Is it spicy?
A: Only if you add the pepper flakes. You control the heat, boss.

Q: Can I bake it after?
A: Oh yes. Sprinkle mozzarella on top and broil for 3–5 minutes — instant pasta bake.

Final Thoughts

And there it is — the One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta of your lazy dreams.
It’s fast, flavorful, and ridiculously satisfying without the 10-pan cleanup.
Perfect for date nights, solo carb therapy, or impressing guests with zero effort.

Now grab that fork, swirl up a creamy bite, and pretend you’re dining in Rome — no passport required. 🇮🇹✨