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A beautifully plated creamy tomato pasta dish, served in a rustic white bowl. The cheese glistens, and the pasta spirals are coated in a rich, thick sauce. A side of garlic bread and a glass of wine sit nearby.

One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe

This one-pot creamy tomato pasta is a quick and comforting meal perfect for busy nights! Rich tomato flavor, cheesy goodness, and a creamy finish make this dish a family favorite—bonus points for easy cleanup!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Calories: 538
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • ⅓ cup sundried tomatoes chopped
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 3 cups chicken stock or water
  • 1 15-oz oz can diced tomatoes undrained
  • 1 12-oz box short pasta shapes spirals or bow ties work great
  • salt & pepper to taste
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan
  • ¼ cup cream cheese OR ricotta mascarpone…
  • chopped flat leaf parsley optional

Equipment

  • Large pot or deep skillet
  • Wooden spoon (for stirring)
  • Knife & cutting board (for chopping)

Method
 

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes (if using) for 2 minutes. Stir in tomato paste and Italian seasoning.
    Close-up shot of a pot with sizzling onions, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil. A wooden spoon is stirring, and steam rises, filling the air with an aromatic blend.
  2. Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in chicken stock, scrape the pot, then add diced tomatoes and pasta. Season with salt & pepper.
    A cozy scene of pasta simmering in a rich tomato broth, with bubbles forming on the surface. The pot glows with warm hues, and a wooden spoon is stirring gently.
  3. Cook the Pasta: Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 10–15 minutes until pasta is tender. Add extra broth if needed.
    Close-up of creamy Parmesan and ricotta melting into the pasta, creating a velvety texture. The spoon is lifting a portion, showing the gooey, cheesy goodness.
  4. Stir in Cheese: Remove from heat and mix in Parmesan and cream cheese (or substitute). Let sit for 3–4 minutes to thicken.
    A hand sprinkling fresh chopped parsley over a steaming bowl of creamy tomato pasta. The green pops against the deep red sauce, enhancing the dish’s visual appeal
  5. Serve & Enjoy: Garnish with parsley if desired and serve immediately!
    A beautifully plated creamy tomato pasta dish, served in a rustic white bowl. The cheese glistens, and the pasta spirals are coated in a rich, thick sauce. A side of garlic bread and a glass of wine sit nearby.