Ingredients
Method
Step 1: SautΓ© the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 2β3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
Step 2: Add the Tomatoes
- Stir in the chopped fresh tomatoes.
- Cook for 5β7 minutes until they begin to break down and release juices.
Step 3: Add Pasta and Stock
- Pour in the stock and bring it to a simmer.
- Add the spaghetti, breaking it in half if needed to fit the pot.
- Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
- Cover the pot and let the pasta cook for 10β12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- If the liquid evaporates too quickly, add a splash more stock or water.
Step 5: Finish with Cream and Basil
- Once the pasta is al dente, reduce heat and stir in the double cream.
- Add chopped basil and stir until everything is silky and well combined.
Step 6: Serve Hot
- Top with extra basil or grated cheese if desired.
Notes
π Variations
Vegan Version: Use a plant-based cream or coconut milk Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free spaghetti Protein Boost: Add chickpeas, white beans, or cooked chicken Extra Veggies: Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini Spicy: Stir in red pepper flakes or chili oil for heat π§ Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stove or microwave. Add a splash of stock or cream to loosen the sauce. Freezing:
Not recommended due to the cream, which may separate. Best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated. β 10 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, one 14-oz can of diced tomatoes works well. 2. Whatβs the best pasta type for this?
Spaghetti or linguine is ideal, but penne or fusilli work too. 3. Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but the sauce wonβt be as rich or creamy. 4. Will dried basil work?
Yes, but use lessβabout 1 tsp. 5. Can I make it spicy?
Absolutely! Add crushed red pepper or chili flakes to taste. 6. Is it suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it holds up well in the fridge for a few days. 7. What if my sauce gets too thick?
Add a splash of water, milk, or stock to loosen it. 8. Can I add cheese?
Yes β mozzarella, parmesan, or pecorino are great options. 9. What cream works best?
Double cream (heavy cream) gives the silkiest finish. 10. Can I skip the cream?
Yes, itβll be more of a traditional tomato pasta β still delicious! π‘ Pro Tips
Chop tomatoes finely for a smoother sauce Use low-sodium stock to control saltiness Stir often to prevent the pasta from sticking Add cream off heat to prevent curdling Let the pasta sit 5 mins before serving to thicken the sauce naturally π Conclusion
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is the definition of comfort made simple. It's rich, creamy, herby, and comes together using pantry staples β with only one pot to clean! π₯£ Perfect for weeknights, lazy weekends, or when you're craving something satisfying and soul-warming in under 30 minutes. ππ
Vegan Version: Use a plant-based cream or coconut milk Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free spaghetti Protein Boost: Add chickpeas, white beans, or cooked chicken Extra Veggies: Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini Spicy: Stir in red pepper flakes or chili oil for heat π§ Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stove or microwave. Add a splash of stock or cream to loosen the sauce. Freezing:
Not recommended due to the cream, which may separate. Best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated. β 10 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, one 14-oz can of diced tomatoes works well. 2. Whatβs the best pasta type for this?
Spaghetti or linguine is ideal, but penne or fusilli work too. 3. Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but the sauce wonβt be as rich or creamy. 4. Will dried basil work?
Yes, but use lessβabout 1 tsp. 5. Can I make it spicy?
Absolutely! Add crushed red pepper or chili flakes to taste. 6. Is it suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it holds up well in the fridge for a few days. 7. What if my sauce gets too thick?
Add a splash of water, milk, or stock to loosen it. 8. Can I add cheese?
Yes β mozzarella, parmesan, or pecorino are great options. 9. What cream works best?
Double cream (heavy cream) gives the silkiest finish. 10. Can I skip the cream?
Yes, itβll be more of a traditional tomato pasta β still delicious! π‘ Pro Tips
Chop tomatoes finely for a smoother sauce Use low-sodium stock to control saltiness Stir often to prevent the pasta from sticking Add cream off heat to prevent curdling Let the pasta sit 5 mins before serving to thicken the sauce naturally π Conclusion
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is the definition of comfort made simple. It's rich, creamy, herby, and comes together using pantry staples β with only one pot to clean! π₯£ Perfect for weeknights, lazy weekends, or when you're craving something satisfying and soul-warming in under 30 minutes. ππ