One Pot Tomato Basil Pesto Pasta – Hearty Food Ideas

As I sit here reminiscing about my last culinary adventure, the flavors of the One Pot Tomato Basil Pesto Pasta come rushing back. Imagine this dish gracing your table, beautifully plated and aromatic. 

A refreshing side salad paired with a vinegary bite, or crusty bread on the side, can elevate the meal. If you’re feeling fancy, a glass of chilled white wine, say a Pinot Grigio, complements the dish marvelously. 

Pair it with roasted vegetables, or even grilled chicken or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist, and you’ve created a feast.

What is One Pot Tomato Basil Pesto Pasta?

One Pot Tomato Basil Pesto Pasta is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a delightful pasta concoction made in one pot. Picture it: crushed tomatoes mingling with basil pesto, nourishing ground meat, and al dente pasta. It’s a simple dish that delivers comfort and satisfaction in each bite.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its convenience. You can whip it up on a busy weeknight or serve it at a dinner gathering. Everything cooks together, allowing flavors to meld into a beautiful harmony. A symphony of tastes, if you will, without the fuss of multiple pots and pans.

What is the Flavor Profile of this Dish?

Savory, tangy, and rich—these flavors dance on your palate like a well-rehearsed performance. The fire-roasted crushed tomatoes provide a deeper flavor than standard varieties. I often prefer this over the classic canned tomatoes because it adds a subtle smoky richness. 

Pair that with the creamy basil pesto. That’s where the magic happens. Bursting with fresh basil, garlic, and nuts, pesto creates a robust backdrop.

The addition of smoky sweet paprika and fennel seeds enhances its depth. Never underestimate the impact of spices. 

Finally, the touch of cheese pushes it into indulgence territory. Texture-wise, creamy burrata balanced against al dente pasta makes each mouthful just right. It’s vibrant. It’s comforting. It’s an embrace on a cloudy day.

What Makes this Recipe Different From Other One Pot Tomato Basil Pesto Pasta?

While many one-pot recipes may stick with a basic tomato sauce, this one steps up the game by introducing fantastic flavor dimensions. 

First, it features two different tomato sources: crushed tomatoes and sun-dried tomatoes. This dual approach means you gain a more complex flavor profile.

Secondly, the spices used in this recipe aren’t common. The combination of smoky sweet paprika and chipotle chili powder adds a kick that most pasta dishes lack. Have you tried using bold spices in pasta before? It’s a game-changer.

Finally, the addition of creamy burrata elevates the richness. This recipe isn’t just about filling up on carbs. It indulges your taste buds while being easy on the stomach.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s the star-studded cast of ingredients you need for this dish:

2 (28-ounce) cans fire-roasted crushed tomatoes

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

1 pound ground chicken, turkey, or pork

2 teaspoons smoky sweet paprika

1 teaspoon lightly crushed fennel seeds

1–2 teaspoons bold chipotle chili powder

1 teaspoon savory onion powder

salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons zesty Italian seasoning blend

pinch of red chili flakes,

1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped

1 pound short-cut pasta (such as rigatoni or penne)

1/2 cup rich basil pesto sauce

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup finely chopped fresh basil or micro basil greens

1 teaspoon lemon zest

2–3 creamy burrata cheese balls, brought to room temperature

Step by Step Directions

Step 1: Sauté the Meat

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the ground meat of your choice.

Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds a base flavor. Cook it well but keep it tender.

Step 2: Add Spices and Aromatics

To the browned meat, sprinkle in your smoky sweet paprika, fennel seeds, chipotle chili powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Stir it all together, letting the spices bloom for about 2 minutes. Your kitchen will begin to smell fantastic!

Step 3: Incorporate the Tomatoes

Next, pour in both cans of fire-roasted crushed tomatoes. Don’t forget to add those chopped sun-dried tomatoes too. Stir to combine everything. Bring your concoction to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld, around 5-10 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Pasta Time

Now, let’s add the short-cut pasta to the pot. Pour it in and make sure it’s well submerged. Add enough water or broth to cover the pasta, and bring it to a boil. 

Reducing heat to a simmer, cook until the pasta is tender, usually about 10-12 minutes. Adjust the cooking time based on your pasta type.

Step 5: Finish with Pesto and Cheese

Once the pasta is perfectly al dente, stir in the basil pesto, freshly grated Parmesan, and lemon zest. Let it cook just a minute more. This allows all the flavors to amalgamate in harmony.

Step 6: Serve and Top with Burrata

Finally, serve warm. Place burrata cheese balls on top and watch them melt into the pasta. Garnish it off with fresh basil or micro greens. You did it!

Tips on Making One Pot Tomato Basil Pesto Pasta

1. Choosing the Right Pasta: Opt for short pastas like penne or rigatoni. They hold onto the sauce better, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
   
2. Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh basil and top-quality olive oil. It makes a huge difference in taste.
   
3. Taste as You Go: Seasoning is key. Always taste the dish towards the end to make necessary adjustments.
   
4. Meal Prep Friendly: This pasta keeps well. Consider making extra for lunches the following day. It reheats beautifully!
   
5. Experiment with Proteins: Be a mad scientist! Try other proteins or even go meatless with chickpeas. The flavors will surprise you.
   

How Can I Store This One Pot Tomato Basil Pesto Pasta?

Storing your One Pot Tomato Basil Pesto Pasta is simple. Allow it to cool down before transferring it to an airtight container. 

It will easily keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can reheat it on the stove or microwave. Just add a splash of water to maintain moisture and prevent it from drying out.

Ingredient Substitution Options

Sometimes, you may not have everything on hand. Here are some great options:

• Ground Meat Replacement: Use lentils or canned chickpeas for a vegetarian twist. Both add an excellent texture and flavor.
  
• Pasta Alternatives: If you’re out of short pasta, use spaghetti or even zucchini noodles for a lower-carb option.
  
• Basil Pesto Substitute: If you lack pesto, consider using a homemade mix of olive oil, fresh basil, and garlic. It’s a tasty alternative!
  
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: If you don’t have these, try diced fresh tomatoes or even roasted red peppers for a different flair.
  

Conclusion

Creating the One Pot Tomato Basil Pesto Pasta is nothing short of a rewarding culinary experience. It’s friendly to your wallet, quick, and utterly satisfying. Invite it into your kitchen for a family meal or special gathering.

I assure you; this dish never disappoints. So roll up your sleeves and give it a go. You might just find it becoming a beloved staple in your home!

Remember, cooking can be both a necessity and a joy. By sharing meals made with love, you create memories around the dinner table. Now, let the flavors speak for themselves! Bon appétit!

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