One-Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Make this easy one-pot creamy tomato pasta in just 20 minutes with pantry staples. A cozy, budget-friendly recipe perfect for beginners and thrifty kitchens.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s nothing better than a comforting bowl of pasta — especially when it only takes one pot, a handful of ingredients, and less than 30 minutes. This creamy tomato pasta is cozy, simple, and perfect for anyone who wants a homemade meal without fuss.
In the Thrifted Kitchen Diary, I love recipes that:
Use affordable ingredients.
Create minimal dishes to wash.
Feel cozy and comforting at the end of a busy day.
This recipe ticks all the boxes.
Ingredients (4 portions)
300 g (10 oz) pasta (spaghetti, penne, or any shape you have)
1 can (400 g / 14 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 cups water (or vegetable/chicken stock for more flavor)
1 cup (250 ml) cream (heavy cream or cooking cream)
2 cloves garlic, minced (or ½ tsp garlic powder if that’s easier)
1 medium onion, chopped (optional but adds flavor)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried herbs (basil, oregano, or Italian mix)
Optional extras:
A handful of spinach, frozen peas, or any leftover veggies.
Grated cheese to sprinkle on top.
Instructions
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cook until soft and fragrant.
Add pasta, crushed tomatoes, water (or stock), cream, salt, pepper, and herbs. Stir everything together.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.
Cook uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and sauce is creamy. Add a splash more water if it looks too thick.
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Serve warm, topped with grated cheese or fresh herbs if you like.
Tips from the Thrifted Kitchen
Stretch it further: Add a can of beans or chickpeas for extra protein.
Zero waste tip: Use up leftover veggies by chopping them in during cooking.
Make it fancy: A drizzle of olive oil or sprinkle of chili flakes at the end makes it look “restaurant-style” with no extra effort.
Why One-Pot Recipes Are Perfect for Thrifty Living
Cooking everything in one pot saves time, saves dishes, and even saves energy. It’s the kind of recipe that makes sense in a thrifty kitchen — simple, satisfying, and cozy without being complicated.
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