Craving a quick and delicious meal? You’ll love this One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Penne! It’s simple, tasty, and perfect for busy nights. Imagine creamy penne pasta bursting with fresh tomato and basil flavors, all from just one pot. In this guide, I will share each step to make this dish a breeze. Let’s dive into the recipe, tips, and tricks that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
Complete List of Ingredients
To make One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Penne, you will need:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 3 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast
– Red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Ingredients for Customization
You can make this dish your own by adding:
– Cooked chicken or shrimp for protein
– Spinach or kale for added greens
– A splash of white wine for extra flavor
– Sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist
Recommended Substitutions
If you need to make changes, consider these:
– Use whole wheat penne for a healthier option.
– Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.
– Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a vegan dish.
– Any broth can work, like chicken or beef, if not vegan.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
Start by gathering all your ingredients. You need:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 3 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Red pepper flakes (optional)
Chop the onion and mince the garlic. This helps the flavors blend well.
Cooking Process
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes. You want it soft and see-through. Then, add the minced garlic for one more minute. Stir it gently so it does not brown.
Next, add the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Pour in the heavy cream and add the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well. Bring this mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, add the penne pasta. Stir it to make sure the pasta is under the liquid. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring now and then. You want the pasta to be al dente and the sauce thick.
Final Touches and Serving Suggestions
When the pasta is ready, take the pot off the heat. Stir in the chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese. This will make it creamy and delicious. Taste it and adjust with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you like some heat.
Serve it hot. You can add extra basil and Parmesan on top for a nice touch. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
How to Perfect the Recipe
To get the best flavor, use fresh ingredients. Fresh basil brings a bright taste. Always sauté the onion until soft. This step builds a flavorful base. When adding garlic, watch it closely. Garlic burns quickly and can taste bitter. For a creamier sauce, add the heavy cream slowly. Stir it in well to blend. Lastly, taste as you go. Adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
Making it Vegan-Friendly
You can easily make this dish vegan. Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream. It gives a nice richness without dairy. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. It adds a cheesy flavor without animal products. Double-check your vegetable broth for any hidden animal ingredients. With these swaps, you can enjoy this creamy dish without worry.
Best Practices for Creamy Texture
To achieve that perfect creamy texture, keep a few tips in mind. Cook the pasta just until al dente. Overcooking can make it mushy. Stir often during cooking to prevent sticking. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of broth. This helps keep it smooth. When you add the basil and cheese, stir gently. This maintains the creamy consistency you want.
Variations
Adding Protein Options
You can easily add protein to this dish. Chicken, shrimp, or sausage work well. For chicken, cook it in the pot before adding onions. Shrimp cooks fast, so add it just before the pasta. If you like sausage, slice it and brown it first. These options make the dish heartier and more filling.
Vegetable Add-ins for Extra Flavor
Adding veggies boosts flavor and nutrition. Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms are great choices. Add spinach at the end, just before serving. For bell peppers or mushrooms, cook them with the onions to soften them. You can also throw in zucchini or carrots for a pop of color and taste.
Spicy Twist with Red Pepper Flakes
If you like heat, red pepper flakes are perfect. Add them to the onions while they cook. Start with a pinch, then adjust to your taste. This small change gives the dish an exciting kick. It’s a simple way to make this creamy pasta more lively.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
After you enjoy your One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Penne, store any leftovers in an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool down to room temperature first. This way, it will stay fresh for up to three days in the fridge. Label the container with the date to keep track of how long it has been stored.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze the pasta for longer storage. First, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. You can freeze it for up to three months. Remember to write the date on the bag or container.
Reheating Tips
When you’re ready to eat your leftover pasta, here’s how to reheat it. You can use the microwave or a stovetop. If using the microwave, place a portion in a bowl, cover it, and heat for two to three minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating. If using the stovetop, add a splash of vegetable broth to a pan, then heat over medium until warmed through. This will help keep it creamy and delicious!
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Yes, you can use whole wheat pasta. It adds more fiber and nutrients. The cooking time may change slightly. Whole wheat pasta can take a bit longer to cook, so check it often.
What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?
To thicken the sauce, you can cook it a bit longer. This helps the liquid reduce. Another way is to add a bit more cheese. Parmesan melts nicely and thickens the sauce.
How to make this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free penne. You can find it in most stores. Ensure your broth and other ingredients are also gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy the meal.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes. Just chop them up a bit before adding. If they have juice, include it for extra flavor. This can give your dish a chunkier texture.
How do I make this dish ahead of time?
To prepare ahead, cook the dish without the cream. Let it cool, then store it in the fridge. When ready to eat, reheat it and stir in the cream. This helps keep it creamy and fresh.
This post covers every step to make a great dish. I shared all the key ingredients, from the basics to optional add-ins. You learned how to prepare, cook, and serve it perfectly. I provided tips for a creamy texture and vegan swaps. You can also explore tasty variations and smart storage tips.
Remember, this dish is easy to customize based on your needs. Experimenting will make it even better!
