Crockpot Tomato Basil Pasta

In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can often feel like a daunting task. Enter Slow-Cooked Tomato Basil Pasta — a deliciously comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of ripe tomatoes, aromatic basil, and wholesome pasta, all while fitting seamlessly into your busy lifestyle. This recipe celebrates the art of slow cooking, allowing flavors to meld beautifully over hours, resulting in a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you're a busy professional, a parent juggling multiple responsibilities, or simply someone who appreciates a hearty meal without the fuss, this slow-cooked pasta dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Discover the joy of slow cooking with this comforting Slow-Cooked Tomato Basil Pasta recipe. Perfect for busy schedules, this dish combines ripe tomatoes, aromatic basil, and hearty penne pasta, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. With minimal effort, you can create a satisfying meal that caters to various dietary preferences. Explore customization options like adding cream for a rich texture or fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy a hassle-free dinner that delights family and friends!

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Ingredients

12 oz (340g) penne pasta

2 cans (28 oz each) diced tomatoes, undrained

1 medium onion, finely chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup vegetable broth

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus more for garnish

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy version)

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: Start by finely chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Measure out all other ingredients to have them ready.

Layer in the Crockpot: In a large crockpot, add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), chopped onion, minced garlic, vegetable broth, olive oil, oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.

Add the Pasta: Pour the penne pasta into the crockpot, ensuring it's submerged in the tomato mixture. Gently stir to distribute the pasta evenly.

Cook: Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1.5-2 hours. Stir occasionally, making sure the pasta cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors. If you’re adding heavy cream, add it in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Add Fresh Basil: Once the pasta is tender and cooked through, stir in the chopped fresh basil. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Serve: Ladle the pasta into bowls, top with grated Parmesan cheese, and garnish with extra fresh basil. Enjoy your delicious slow-cooked comfort dish!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 4 hrs | 6 servings