If you’re craving a cozy, comforting dinner that doesn’t leave you with a sink full of dishes, this One Pot Tomato Pasta is exactly what you need. Made with fresh Roma tomatoes, cheese tortellini, and a rich, creamy tomato sauce, this recipe is simple, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights. Best of all, everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
This one pot pasta recipe combines fresh ingredients with pantry staples to create a meal that feels elevated but is incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re feeding your family or looking for a quick dinner idea, this creamy tomato tortellini will become a regular on your meal rotation.
Why You’ll Love This One Pot Tomato Pasta
- One pot meal means minimal cleanup
- Made with fresh tomatoes for bold, natural flavor
- Ready in about 30 minutes
- Creamy, comforting, and family-friendly
- Easy to customize with protein or veggies
This recipe is perfect for anyone searching for easy pasta recipes, creamy tomato pasta, or one pot dinners that don’t sacrifice flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this one pot creamy tomato tortellini, you’ll need:
- 6 Roma tomatoes, halved
- 2–3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 pound cheese tortellini
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, for serving
These simple ingredients come together to create a rich tomato sauce without the need for jarred pasta sauce.
How to Make One Pot Tomato Pasta
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Place the halved Roma tomatoes cut-side down into the hot oil. Cover with a lid and let them cook for 7–8 minutes until softened and blistered. This step helps bring out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
Once softened, use a fork to gently remove the tomato skins. Mash the tomatoes with a spoon to release their juices and create the base of your sauce. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, black pepper, and a generous pinch of salt.
Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the cheese tortellini. Cook according to the package directions, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. As the tortellini cooks, it absorbs the flavorful tomato broth, creating a naturally thickened sauce.
Once the pasta is tender, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. If the pasta seems too saucy, simply let it sit for a few minutes—this allows the tortellini to soak up even more liquid.
Serving Suggestions & Tips
Serve this creamy tomato pasta immediately, topped with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese. For added protein, try stirring in cooked chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage. You can also add spinach or roasted vegetables for extra nutrition.
This dish reheats beautifully, making it great for leftovers and meal prep. Just add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to loosen the sauce.
Recipe Variations
Protein Add-Ins
- Grilled or rotisserie chicken – stir in at the end
- Italian sausage – brown before adding tomatoes
- Shrimp – add during the last few minutes of cooking
- Crispy bacon or pancetta – sprinkle on top for extra flavor
Veggie Boost
- Spinach or kale (stir in at the end)
- Zucchini or mushrooms (sauté with tomatoes)
- Roasted bell peppers or cherry tomatoes
- Broccoli or peas for extra color and nutrition
Cheese Variations
- Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano, mozzarella, or Gruyère
- Add a dollop of ricotta or burrata for a creamy finish
Flavor Twists
- Pesto Tomato Tortellini: Stir in a spoonful of basil pesto
- Garlic Butter Tomato Pasta: Add fresh minced garlic and butter for extra richness
- Creamy Tuscan Style: Add sun-dried tomatoes and spinach
- White Wine Tomato Pasta: Deglaze with a splash of white wine before adding broth
Storage
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover tomato tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
- The pasta will continue to absorb the sauce, so add a splash of chicken broth, milk, or cream when reheating.
Freezer Storage
- You can freeze this pasta, but creamy sauces may slightly change texture.
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, and add liquid if needed.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh Roma tomatoes?
Yes! Substitute with 1 to 1 ½ cups canned diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes. Fresh tomatoes give the best flavor, but canned works great in a pinch.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes. Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream, and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Let the pasta sit for a few minutes to absorb the liquid, or add extra Parmesan cheese. You can also simmer uncovered for a few minutes.
Can I make it spicy?
Absolutely. Add red pepper flakes, crushed chili peppers, or a splash of hot sauce for heat.