Creamy Parmesan Tomato Pasta Skillet

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and speed all in one skillet. The Creamy Parmesan Tomato Pasta Skillet is that perfect weeknight dinner that feels indulgent but comes together in less than 30 minutes. With tender pasta swimming in a luscious, cheesy tomato sauce, every bite is a delightful blend of creamy goodness and fresh tang. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe hits all the right notes.

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe is a go-to when I’m craving something rich but straightforward. It’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup—a huge win in my book. The sauce is velvety thanks to the heavy cream and Parmesan, while the diced tomatoes add a fresh burst that keeps the dish from feeling too heavy. Plus, the Italian seasoning and fresh basil bring a fragrant, herby brightness that elevates the entire skillet. It’s perfect on busy nights, but also fancy enough to serve guests without fuss. And if you adore tomato-based dishes, you might also want to check out my recipe for Simple Homemade Tomato Soup — another tomato lover’s dream!

The Ingredient Lineup

• 8 ounces pasta – Choose your favorite type; penne, fusilli, or farfalle work beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics.
• 1 onion, diced – Provides a sweet, savory base flavor.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – For that irresistible aromatic punch.
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes – The heart of the sauce, delivering freshness and acidity.
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth – Adds depth and helps cook the pasta in the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Creates the creamy texture that makes this dish so comforting.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – The star cheese that melts into the sauce, adding salty, nutty flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that ties all the flavors together.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
• Fresh basil for garnish – Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal aroma.

Equipment at a Glance

• Large skillet or sauté pan – Ideally one with a lid for cooking the pasta in the sauce.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – For stirring without scratching your pan.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To keep things precise.
• Cheese grater – For freshly grated Parmesan, which melts better and tastes fresher.
• Knife and cutting board – For prepping onions, garlic, and basil.

Stepwise Method: Creamy Parmesan Tomato Pasta Skillet

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it burn!

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juices and the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This base will start developing the rich tomato flavor that is essential to the dish.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta in the Sauce

Add the pasta directly to the skillet. Stir it into the tomato and broth mixture, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged. Cover the skillet and let the pasta cook, stirring occasionally, until al dente and the liquid is mostly absorbed—about 10-12 minutes depending on your pasta shape.

Step 4: Stir in Cream and Cheese

Reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Add the Italian seasoning, then stir gently until the cheese melts and the sauce turns luxuriously creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the top. Serve immediately while warm and creamy. For a fun twist, you can even pair this with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.

Variations by Season

• Spring: Add fresh spinach or peas during the last few minutes of cooking for a pop of green and sweetness.
• Summer: Toss in fresh cherry tomatoes halved instead of canned tomatoes for a brighter flavor.
• Fall: Stir in sautéed mushrooms or roasted butternut squash for a hearty touch.
• Winter: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for warmth and serve alongside a cozy Baked Chicken Alfredo Ziti for a comforting feast.

Method to the Madness

Here’s what makes this skillet magic happen:

• One-pan cooking: Cooking the pasta right in the sauce means all those flavors absorb directly into the noodles, making every bite rich and flavorful.
• Balancing acidity and creaminess: The diced tomatoes bring acidity which is perfectly mellowed by the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, creating a silky, balanced sauce.
• Fresh herbs: The basil is more than just a garnish—it adds a fresh aroma and slight peppery notes that cut through the richness.
• Simple seasoning: Italian seasoning keeps it classic without overpowering the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Prep Ahead & Store

This dish is excellent for meal prep. You can prepare the entire skillet and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. For busy nights, chop your onion and garlic in advance, and keep grated Parmesan on hand to cut down prep time.

Popular Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne or fusilli work great for holding onto the sauce, feel free to use spaghetti, rotini, or even shells. Just keep an eye on the cooking time since different shapes have different cooking durations.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The combination of cream, Parmesan, and tomatoes still delivers plenty of flavor without the need for meat-based broth.

Can I substitute heavy cream with a lighter option?

You can try using half-and-half or a full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version, but note that the sauce might be a bit less thick and creamy. Adjust the Parmesan cheese accordingly to maintain richness.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking when cooking it in the sauce?

Stir the pasta occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking. Adding enough broth ensures there’s enough liquid for the pasta to cook evenly without clumping together.

Try These Next

• Lemon Ricotta Pasta – A bright and creamy pasta dish perfect for lighter meals.
• Baked Chicken Alfredo Ziti – A cheesy baked pasta for when you want something hearty and indulgent.
• Simple Homemade Tomato Soup – A comforting tomato soup that pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or grilled cheese.

Make It Tonight

Looking to whip up a dinner that feels like a warm hug? This Creamy Parmesan Tomato Pasta Skillet is your answer! Gather your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and in less than half an hour, you’ll have a dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with the vibrant flavor of tomatoes and fresh herbs. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a relaxed weekend, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy cravings and keep everyone coming back for seconds.

This dish reminds me that sometimes the simplest ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create something truly special. So go ahead—make tonight delicious and comforting with this skillet pasta that’s destined to be a favorite in your recipe rotation.

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