One Pan Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe

If you love simple, flavorful dinners that come together fast, you’re going to adore this One Pan Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe. I absolutely love how this dish marries three types of tomatoes with fresh basil, all cooked in one pot for easy cleanup. Trust me, when you try it, you’ll find this recipe is not just delicious but downright addictive—and perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this One Pan Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe is in its simple, fresh ingredients that complement each other beautifully. When shopping, look for ripe cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil—they make all the difference.

• Olive oil: Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor—it really shines here.
• Sun dried tomatoes: I like the ones packed in olive oil to add extra depth and richness.
• Cherry tomatoes: Fresh and juicy, they burst beautifully while cooking, adding natural sweetness.
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic is non-negotiable for that punch of savoriness.
• Crushed red pepper: Adds just a hint of heat; adjust to taste.
• Black pepper: Freshly cracked is best for robust flavor.
• Salt: Don’t skimp! It balances all the flavors perfectly.
• Bucatini pasta (or thick spaghetti): Bucatini’s hollow center lets the sauce seep inside, but thick spaghetti works well too.
• Vegetable broth: Gives the sauce depth without overpowering the tomatoes.
• Water: Helps cook the pasta without diluting flavor.
• Tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that boosts the sauce’s richness.
• Fresh basil: Thinly sliced and stirred in at the end for a bright, fresh finish.

Variations

I love how versatile this One Pan Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe is. While the original has my heart, I encourage you to make it your own and adjust the ingredients to suit your mood or dietary needs.

• With Protein: I’ve tossed in cooked chicken or sautéed shrimp for a heartier meal that my family goes crazy for.
• Vegan Version: Skip cheese toppings and use vegetable broth to keep it plant-based and just as tasty.
• Spicier Kick: If you like heat, add more crushed red pepper or even a splash of hot sauce during step two.
• Herb Swap: Tried swapping basil for fresh oregano or parsley—each brings its own fresh twist!

How to Make One Pan Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Gently Simmer the Tomatoes

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until it’s shimmering. Add in your sun dried tomatoes, along with any olive oil clinging to them, then toss in the cherry tomatoes. Stir well to coat everything in that fragrant oil. Partially cover the pot and let the tomatoes cook for about 6 minutes. You’ll see the cherry tomatoes burst and release their juices, creating a beautiful, luscious base. Stir once or twice during this time to keep things from sticking.

Step 2: Build Your Flavor with Garlic and Spices

Next, add the minced garlic, crushed red pepper, black pepper, and don’t forget that important salt. Stir everything together and let it cook for 2 minutes to let the garlic soften and the flavors meld. This step really builds the aromatic foundation for the sauce—don’t rush it!

Step 3: Add Pasta and Liquid Ingredients

It’s time to add the bucatini pasta directly into the pot. Then pour in the vegetable broth, water, and that can of tomato paste. Use a wooden spoon to gently break up the tomato paste and stir it fully into the liquid mixture. Crank the heat up to high and let everything come to a rapid boil. You want the pasta cooking directly in this flavorful liquid so it absorbs all the tomatoey goodness as it softens.

Step 4: Cook Pasta and Reduce Sauce

As the mixture boils, stir and turn the pasta frequently to prevent it from sticking and ensure even cooking. This should take about 14 minutes until the pasta is tender but still has a lovely bite, and the sauce has mostly thickened and evaporated to a rich coating. This is the moment I watch carefully—too much liquid and it’s soupy, too little and the pasta sticks, so stirring is key!

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Basil and Rest

Once off the heat, stir in the fresh basil and cover the pot for 5 minutes. This resting time lets the basil infuse the pasta with herby aroma and gives the sauce a lovely silky finish. After that, your One Pan Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe is ready to serve—simple, fresh, and wildly satisfying.

How to Serve One Pan Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping this pasta with a shower of freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese, plus a few extra basil leaves for color and aroma. Sometimes a drizzle of good olive oil right before serving adds a lovely richness. If you like a touch of crunch, toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top are divine.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette always balances the richness of this pasta perfectly. I also like serving it alongside garlic bread or oven-roasted vegetables to round out the meal without extra fuss.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties, I’ve served this pasta family-style in a big rustic wooden bowl, with fresh basil sprigs tucked in as garnish. Another favorite trick is plating individual portions with a basil flower on top for an elegant but effortless touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This pasta actually holds up really well in the fridge. I store leftovers in an airtight container and find they stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just keep an eye on the sauce—it can thicken, but a quick stir with a splash of water or broth brings it back to life.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this pasta a couple times with decent results. Make sure to cool it completely and pack it tightly in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. While it’s best fresh, freezing is a reliable option for busy weeks.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, I gently warm the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and keep it tender. Microwave works too in a pinch, but be sure to cover and stir halfway through.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

When I first tried this One Pan Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe, I was blown away by how something so simple could be so flavorful. It’s become my go-to on evenings when I want comfort food but don’t want to spend forever cooking. Plus, the fact that it all happens in one pot means less stress and more time to relax with family or friends. Give it a try the next time you want a hassle-free, tomato-packed dinner—you’ll thank me later!

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