One Pot Pasta

A simple, comforting pasta cooked entirely in one pot with a rich tomato-garlic sauce. It’s quick, flavorful, budget-friendly, and perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) penne, spaghetti, or rotini
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz / 411 g) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 3½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt, or to taste
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes, optional
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups baby spinach, optional
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil
• Extra Parmesan, for serving

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet, Dutch oven, or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly so it doesn’t burn.
4. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen its flavor.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, broth, Italian seasoning, dried basil, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
6. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
7. Add the uncooked pasta directly into the pot. Stir well so the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid.
8. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover partially and simmer for 10–14 minutes, stirring every 2–3 minutes to prevent sticking.
9. Continue cooking until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. If the pasta becomes dry before it is cooked, add ¼–½ cup additional broth or water.
10. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream.
11. Add the Parmesan and mozzarella gradually, stirring until melted and creamy.
12. If using spinach, stir it in and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted.
13. Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, or seasonings as needed.
14. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and extra Parmesan.
15. Serve hot while the sauce is creamy and the cheese is melted.

Nutrition Information

Approximate per serving, based on 4 servings:

• Calories: 610
• Protein: 24 g
• Carbohydrates: 78 g
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 1,050 mg
• Calcium: 360 mg

Nutrition will vary depending on the pasta, broth, cream, cheese, and exact quantities used.

Allergen Information

Contains:

• Wheat/gluten from regular pasta
• Milk/dairy from heavy cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella

May contain:

• Soy, depending on the pasta or packaged ingredients

For a gluten-free version:

• Use certified gluten-free pasta and check all packaged ingredients.

For a dairy-free version:

• Replace the heavy cream with unsweetened dairy-free cooking cream and use dairy-free Parmesan and mozzarella alternatives.

Recipe Tips & Q/S

Q: Can I use spaghetti instead of penne?
A: Yes. Break the spaghetti in half if needed so it fits comfortably in the pot.

Q: Why is my pasta sticking together?
A: Stir the pasta every few minutes while it cooks, especially during the first several minutes.

Q: Can I add chicken?
A: Yes. Add about 1–1½ cups cooked shredded or diced chicken near the end. You can also sauté small pieces of raw chicken before adding the onions, making sure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Q: Can I add ground beef?
A: Absolutely. Brown about ½–1 lb ground beef first, drain excess grease, then continue with the recipe.

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes. Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Q: Can I make it spicy?
A: Add extra red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a little chopped chili.

Q: What if the pasta is still hard?
A: Add ¼ cup broth or water at a time and continue simmering until tender.

Q: What if the pasta has too much liquid?
A: Leave the pot uncovered and simmer for a few additional minutes, stirring frequently.

Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Yes. Mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli, peas, or spinach all work well.

Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A: Yes, but pasta continues absorbing sauce as it sits. Add a splash of broth or milk when reheating to bring back the creamy texture.

Q: How long does it keep?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Q: Can I freeze it?
A: You can, although the creamy cheese sauce may change texture slightly after thawing. For best results, refrigerate and reheat rather than freeze.

Q: What should I serve with one-pot pasta?
A: Garlic bread, a green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli make excellent sides.