Pin This creamy one-pot pasta with burst cherry tomatoes has become my weeknight dinner hero. The sweet tomatoes gently burst during cooking, creating a luscious sauce that coats every bite of pasta. All the magic happens in a single pot, making this dish as practical as it is delicious.
I first created this pasta during a particularly hectic week when I needed something comforting but didn't have the energy for anything complicated. My family was so impressed they thought I'd spent hours in the kitchen. Now it's our go-to meal when we want something that feels special without the extra work.
Ingredients
- Short pasta: like penne or rigatoni gives the perfect surface area for the sauce to cling to. Choose a quality pasta that holds its shape well during cooking.
- Cherry tomatoes: provide natural sweetness and create the foundation of our sauce. Look for ripe ones with vibrant color and firm texture.
- Garlic and onion: build the aromatic base. Fresh garlic makes a noticeable difference in the final flavor.
- Heavy cream: transforms the simple ingredients into a luxurious sauce. Use full-fat for the best texture and mouthfeel.
- Parmesan cheese: adds saltiness and depth. Grate it yourself from a block for better melting and flavor.
- Vegetable broth: forms the cooking liquid for the pasta while adding flavor. Use low sodium if you prefer to control the salt level.
- Baby spinach: adds color and nutrition. Choose fresh spinach with crisp leaves.
- Fresh basil: brightens the finished dish with its aromatic qualities. Select leaves that are vibrant green without any dark spots.
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in your largest deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent but not browned. This creates a sweet foundation for our sauce. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent any burning.
- Add the Garlic:
- Add minced garlic to the softened onions and cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown as garlic can quickly become bitter when overcooked. You'll know it's ready when you can smell its wonderful aroma filling your kitchen.
- Create the Tomato Burst:
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes along with a pinch of salt to help draw out their juices. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Watch for the magical moment when the tomatoes begin to soften and burst, releasing their sweet juices into the pan. This creates the flavorful base for our sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Liquids:
- Add the uncooked pasta directly to the pot along with vegetable broth and heavy cream. Stir everything together to ensure the pasta is submerged in liquid. This one-pot method allows the pasta to absorb all the flavors as it cooks while simultaneously releasing starch that will thicken our sauce.
- Simmer to Perfection:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking. The pasta will gradually absorb the liquid while cooking to al dente texture. You'll notice the sauce beginning to thicken as the starch releases from the pasta.
- Finish with Greens and Cheese:
- Once the pasta is tender but still has a slight bite, add the baby spinach and grated Parmesan. Stir until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts completely into the sauce, creating a smooth, creamy texture. This final step brings everything together into a cohesive, luxurious dish.
- Season to Taste:
- Add black pepper and optional red pepper flakes for a gentle heat. Taste and adjust the salt level as needed. The Parmesan adds saltiness, so add additional salt gradually until the flavors pop but aren't overwhelming.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer to serving bowls and top with torn fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while the sauce is hot and silky.
Pin The cherry tomatoes are truly the star of this recipe. I discovered that letting them cook just until they burst but not completely break down creates pockets of intense flavor throughout the dish. My daughter calls them "little flavor bombs" and always picks out her favorite pieces first.
Storage and Reheating
This pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken considerably when chilled. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and warm gently over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. The flavors actually develop overnight, making this an excellent make-ahead meal option.
Ingredient Substitutions
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to what you have on hand. No cherry tomatoes? Use 2 cups of diced regular tomatoes instead. Cream too rich? Substitute half and half or even whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of butter. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream works surprisingly well without adding too much coconut flavor. Fresh herbs can be swapped based on what's available. Thyme or oregano make excellent alternatives to basil.
Seasonal Variations
Spring Version Add 1 cup of fresh or frozen peas during the last 3 minutes of cooking for a pop of sweetness and color.
Summer Version Fold in 1 cup of fresh corn kernels and diced zucchini with the cherry tomatoes for a garden-fresh twist.
Fall Version Add 2 cups of cubed butternut squash with the onions and extend cooking time by 5 minutes for a slightly sweeter, heartier dish.
Winter Version Stir in 2 cups of chopped kale instead of spinach and add 1 teaspoon of dried herbs like rosemary or sage for a more robust flavor profile.
Pin This creamy one-pot pasta is incredibly satisfying and quick to make. Enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home with minimal effort.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute the cream for a lighter option?
Yes, you can use half-and-half, whole milk, or a plant-based cream for a lighter sauce while maintaining creaminess.
- → What pasta shapes work best?
Short pasta types like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli absorb the sauce well and hold up during one-pot cooking.
- → How do I make it gluten-free?
Simply swap the pasta for a certified gluten-free option; other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
- → Is it possible to add protein?
Stir in cooked white beans for a vegetarian protein boost, or add sautéed chicken for a heartier option.
- → What can I use instead of Parmesan?
Grated Pecorino Romano, nutritional yeast, or a dairy-free cheese alternative all work well for this dish.
- → Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely—roasted zucchini, mushrooms, or even bell peppers can be included for added texture and flavor.