Go Back

One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta

One Pan Creamy Tomato Pasta is the ultimate comfort dish that combines al dente penne pasta with juicy cherry tomatoes and rich heavy cream, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the base
  • 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil This aromatic oil adds warmth to the dish.
  • 1 cup diced yellow onion Adds a sweet and savory base, providing a depth of flavor.
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved Juicy and sweet, these tomatoes burst with flavor as they cook down.
For the pasta
  • 8 oz. dry penne pasta This hearty pasta holds the creamy sauce perfectly.
  • 1 cup marinara sauce Rich and zesty, the marinara enhances the savory notes in the dish.
  • 2 cups water Essential for cooking the pasta to perfection.
  • 1/2 tsp. garlic powder An aromatic flavor enhancer that adds depth.
  • 1/2 tsp. dried oregano This herb provides an earthy essence.
  • 1/2 tsp. kosher salt Basic seasoning that elevates all the flavors.
  • 1/2 tsp. cracked black pepper Basic seasoning that elevates all the flavors.
For the finishing touch
  • 2 to 3 handfuls fresh baby spinach Bright and healthy, the spinach wilts beautifully into the dish.
  • 1/3 cup heavy cream Creates the luscious, creamy texture.
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Melts into the dish, adding a gooey, cheesy goodness.
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves Offers a fresh, aromatic finish to the dish.
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional) Adds an extra touch of flavor if desired.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Once hot, add the diced yellow onion and halved cherry tomatoes.
  3. Cook for about 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and the tomatoes have broken down into a jammy consistency.
Cooking
  1. Next, add the dry penne pasta, marinara sauce, 2 cups of water, garlic powder, dried oregano, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper.
  2. Stir everything together to ensure the pasta is coated in the sauce.
  3. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a simmer.
  4. Cover the skillet and let the pasta cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 12 minutes or until it’s al dente.
  5. Remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream, baby spinach, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
  6. Continue to stir constantly for about 2 minutes, until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy texture.
Serving
  1. Finally, remove the skillet from the heat and garnish your dish with chopped fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if using.
  2. Ready to serve!

Notes

Timing Is Key: Keep a close eye while cooking the pasta. Overcooking may result in a mushy texture. You can upgrade your cheese, use different pastas, and incorporate other vegetables for variations.