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Easy One-Pot Pasta Recipe for Beginners with Creamy Tomato Sauce

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A beginner-friendly, quick, and easy one-pot pasta dish with a rich and creamy tomato sauce that requires minimal cleanup and simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces dried pasta (penne, fusilli, or elbow macaroni)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 ½ cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
  2. Add minced garlic and chopped onion; sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and onion is translucent, stirring often.
  3. Pour in crushed tomatoes, then add ½ teaspoon dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir and simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Add dried pasta and 2 ½ cups broth. Stir to submerge pasta and bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover pan with lid slightly ajar, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring every 3 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  6. When pasta is al dente, stir in ½ cup heavy cream. Cook uncovered for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until sauce thickens. Add more broth or water if too thick.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and stir in chopped fresh basil if using.
  8. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Stir frequently to prevent pasta from sticking and to achieve a creamy sauce. Use a wide pan for even cooking. Adjust liquid levels if pasta absorbs too quickly. Substitute cream with coconut or cashew cream for dairy-free version. Add red pepper flakes for heat. Leftovers reheat well with added broth or cream.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot pasta, creamy tomato sauce, easy pasta recipe, beginner-friendly, quick dinner, comfort food

Find it online: https://milacook.com/easy-one-pot-pasta-recipe-for-beginners-with-creamy-tomato-sauce-guide/