One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta with Garlic and Parmesan

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-15 · Updated 2026-05-15

A quick and satisfying Italian pasta dish cooked in one pot with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and fragrant basil, finished with creamy Parmesan cheese. This Italian-inspired pasta recipe (vegetarian), ready in about 30 minutes, pairs olive oil, garlic cloves, cherry tomatoes for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 520 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 5 cloves, thinly sliced garlic cloves
• 3 cups, halved cherry tomatoes
• 12 oz dried penne pasta
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup, torn fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp (optional) crushed red pepper flakes

The pan we’d use for this → Best Nonstick Cookware for 2026: Top 5 Skillet Picks + Buying Guide

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large deep skillet or pot, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add 5 thinly sliced garlic cloves and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
2. Step 2: Add 3 cups halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 4-5 minutes until they begin to soften and release juices.
3. Step 3: Pour in 12 oz dried penne pasta, 4 cups vegetable broth, 1 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered, stirring frequently, for 12-15 minutes until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
4. Step 4: Stir in 1 cup torn fresh basil leaves, 1/2 cup heavy cream, and 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for 1-2 minutes more until sauce is creamy and coats the pasta evenly. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve immediately.