One-Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something comforting and delicious but don't have much time to spend in the kitchen. It only requires one pot and less than 30 minutes to make, plus it's creamy, flavorful, and satisfying. The combination of tomato sauce, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and smooth sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. You can customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or protein, but it's also great on its own.

Personal Story

I love pasta dishes because they remind me of my childhood and my Italian grandmother who used to make homemade pasta every week. One of my favorite dishes was her tomato sauce with meatballs, but I wanted to create a simpler and quicker version that I could make on a regular basis. That's how I came up with this recipe, which has all the flavors and textures I love in a pasta dish without the hassle of making meatballs or multiple pots.

Ingredients

• 1 pound of pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
• 1 jar of tomato sauce (24 oz)
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour the tomato sauce into the pot and stir well.
4. Add the pasta and enough water to cover it (about 4 cups).
5. Bring the water to a boil and reduce the heat to low.
6. Cover the pot and let the pasta cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente.
7. Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the pot and stir until well combined.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Let the pasta cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and the cheese melts.
10. Remove the pot from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
11. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Serving Suggestions

This One-Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is perfect for a quick and easy dinner on a busy weeknight when you don't have much time to cook. You can also make it ahead of time and reheat it for lunch or dinner during the week. It's a versatile recipe that you can customize by adding your favorite vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers, or protein such as chicken, shrimp, or sausage. It's also great for potlucks, parties, or family gatherings because it's a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.