One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe: Easy Comfort Food with Minimal Cleanup

Some meals feel special because they take hours to prepare.

Others become favourites because they deliver incredible flavour without requiring a lot of time or effort.

This One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta belongs firmly in the second category.

Rich tomato flavour, creamy parmesan, fragrant basil, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in a single pot, creating a satisfying meal that's ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or whenever you want comfort food without the extra cleanup.

In this episode of Happy Home Kitchen, Chef Makeda shares a simple one pot pasta recipe that combines classic Italian-inspired flavours with the convenience modern kitchens demand.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ¼ cup dried tomatoes, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup canned diced tomatoes

• 1 cup tomato purée

• 2 cups vegetable broth

• 2 teaspoons oregano

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• ⅔ pound uncooked penne pasta

• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese

• 5–6 fresh basil leaves, chopped

For Garnish:

• Extra grated parmesan

• Fresh basil leaves

Step 1: Build the Base

Place a large pot over medium heat and add:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Once heated, add:

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Cook for approximately 2 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.

Next add:

• ¼ cup dried tomatoes, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Stir briefly and cook until fragrant.

This combination creates the flavour foundation for the entire dish.

Step 2: Add the Tomatoes

Pour into the pot:

• ½ cup canned diced tomatoes

• 1 cup tomato purée

Stir well to combine.

Using multiple forms of tomato helps create a deeper, richer flavour profile.

Step 3: Add Liquid and Seasoning

Add:

• 2 cups vegetable broth

• 2 teaspoons oregano

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

The broth provides the liquid needed to cook the pasta while building a flavourful sauce at the same time.

Why One Pot Pasta Works So Well

Traditional Italian pasta dishes are often prepared in separate stages.

The sauce cooks independently.

The pasta cooks in a separate pot.

Everything comes together at the end.

One pot pasta simplifies that process.

The pasta cooks directly in the sauce, absorbing flavour as it softens.

The starch released during cooking naturally thickens the sauce, creating a creamy texture without requiring multiple pans or complicated techniques.

The result is a dish that feels rich and satisfying while remaining practical for everyday cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add:

• ⅔ pound uncooked penne pasta

Stir to ensure the pasta is fully submerged.

Cover and cook for approximately 10–12 minutes.

Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

As the pasta cooks, it absorbs the liquid and helps create a thick, flavourful sauce.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Once the pasta is tender, stir in:

• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese

Mix until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Then add:

• 5–6 fresh basil leaves, chopped

Stir gently to combine.

The parmesan adds richness while the basil provides freshness and balance.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately.

Top with:

• Extra grated parmesan

• Fresh basil leaves

The combination of creamy sauce, tender pasta, and bright herbs creates a meal that feels both comforting and elegant.

Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Busy Days

One pot meals continue to grow in popularity because they offer several advantages:

• Less preparation time

• Fewer dishes to wash

• Easy cleanup

• Consistent flavour throughout the dish

• Family-friendly ingredients

When cooking fits more naturally into a busy schedule, preparing meals at home becomes easier and more enjoyable.

A Simple Meal That Delivers Big Flavour

What makes this recipe stand out is its balance.

It's rich without being heavy.

Comforting without being complicated.

And impressive without requiring advanced cooking skills.

Creamy.

Flavourful.

Simple.

The perfect example of how great food doesn't have to be difficult.

Watch More Recipes from Happy Home Kitchen

Looking for more easy dinner recipes, comfort food favourites, and practical kitchen inspiration?

Follow Happy Home Shopping and Happy Home Kitchen for simple recipes, helpful cooking tips, and products designed to make everyday meals easier and more enjoyable.