One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This one pan creamy tomato pasta is a simple, comforting meal that comes together quickly. With juicy cherry tomatoes, tender penne, and a luscious cream sauce, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz. dry penne pasta
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp. cracked black pepper
• 2 to 3 generous handfuls fresh baby spinach
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
• Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet with a fitted lid over medium heat. Add the diced onion and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and the tomatoes have broken down and become jammy.
2. Step 2: Add the dry penne pasta, marinara sauce, water, garlic powder, dried oregano, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper to the skillet. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente, about 10 to 12 minutes.
3. Step 3: Remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream, fresh baby spinach, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir continuously until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts, roughly 2 minutes.
4. Step 4: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy tomato pasta!

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, sauté a minced garlic clove with the onions in Step 1.
• Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Add cooked Italian sausage or grilled chicken for added protein.
• If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a bit more water or broth during cooking.
• Swap fresh spinach for kale or arugula for a different green.

Storage

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or cream to restore the creamy texture. Avoid microwaving for best results.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute penne with rigatoni, fusilli, or any short pasta shape that cooks evenly in one pot.

Is it necessary to use heavy cream?

The heavy cream adds richness, but you can substitute with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative if preferred. The sauce will be a bit lighter but still delicious.

One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 139 reviews

• Author: Ella
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta is a quick and satisfying meal featuring tender penne pasta cooked with cherry tomatoes, onions, and marinara sauce in a rich, creamy tomato sauce. Enhanced with fresh spinach, mozzarella, and basil, it offers a perfect balance of fresh and comforting flavors with minimal cleanup.

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Ingredients

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Base Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz. dry penne pasta
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp. cracked black pepper

Add-ins

• 2 to 3 generous handfuls fresh baby spinach
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves

Optional Garnish

• Grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics and Tomatoes: Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet with a fitted lid over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and the tomatoes break down and become jammy, creating a flavorful base.
2. Add Pasta and Liquids: Stir in the dry penne pasta, marinara sauce, water, garlic powder, dried oregano, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
3. Simmer Until Pasta is Al Dente: Cover the skillet with the lid and let the mixture cook, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, for 10 to 12 minutes until the pasta is tender but still has a slight bite.
4. Incorporate Cream and Greens: Remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream, fresh baby spinach, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Continue stirring for about 2 minutes until the spinach wilts and the cheese fully melts into the sauce, making it creamy and rich.
5. Finish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the pasta and, if desired, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy this comforting and vibrant one-pan meal hot.

Notes

• Use a large skillet with a fitted lid to ensure even cooking and to trap steam for the pasta.
• Adjust seasonings to taste, adding more salt or pepper if desired.
• For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based alternative.
• Fresh spinach can be substituted with kale or arugula for different flavor profiles.
• Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pan during cooking.
• Parmesan garnish is optional but adds a nice savory touch.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: one pan pasta, creamy tomato pasta, easy pasta recipe, vegetarian pasta, skillet pasta, quick dinner, tomato spinach pasta, penne pasta recipe