Some nights, you just want dinner to be fast, delicious, and cleanup-free — and that’s exactly what this One Pot Pasta delivers. It’s the internet’s favorite kind of recipe: everything cooks together in one pot, creating a creamy, flavorful dish with minimal effort. No draining, no separate sauces — just toss in your ingredients, stir, and watch the magic happen.
This meal is the perfect blend of convenience and comfort. The pasta absorbs all the flavors from garlic, herbs, and broth as it cooks, creating a velvety sauce that feels like something from your favorite Italian bistro — all in under 30 minutes. It’s the recipe that truly makes dinner feel easy again.
2. Ingredients
This one-pot wonder uses simple pantry staples and fresh touches for restaurant-worthy results.
Ingredients List
Base Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or fusilli)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk or cream (for a creamy version)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning or dried basil
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage
- 2 cups spinach or kale
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Key Ingredients
Pasta: Cooks directly in the sauce, soaking up all the flavor.
Broth: Replaces plain water for deeper taste.
Garlic & Onion: Build that comforting flavor base.
Tomatoes: Add acidity and sweetness.
Milk or Cream: Turns the sauce silky and rich.
Optional Add-Ons / Variations
- Creamy Alfredo Style: Add Parmesan and a splash of cream at the end.
- Spicy Arrabbiata: Add chili flakes and extra garlic.
- Protein Boost: Toss in shredded chicken, shrimp, or turkey.
- Vegan Version: Use coconut milk and veggie broth.
- Cheesy Twist: Add mozzarella chunks that melt beautifully.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity — everything cooks together perfectly in one pot.
Preparation Steps
- Gather all ingredients and prep garlic, onion, and tomatoes.
- Measure out broth and milk so you can add quickly while cooking.
Cooking Steps
- Sauté aromatics:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, cook 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add tomatoes & seasoning:
- Stir in tomatoes, salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Cook for 2 minutes to release juices.
- Add pasta and liquids:
- Pour in broth and milk.
- Add pasta directly into the pot — no pre-boiling!
- Stir to combine everything evenly.
- Simmer:
- Bring to a gentle boil, then lower heat to medium-low.
- Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 10–12 minutes until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.
- Optional mix-ins:
- Stir in cooked chicken, spinach, or cheese.
- Let simmer for another 2 minutes.
- Finish:
- Adjust seasoning and top with Parmesan and fresh basil.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve straight from the pot — family-style!
- Pair with garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
- Top with crushed red pepper or a drizzle of olive oil.
- For extra flair, add lemon zest or freshly cracked pepper before serving.
4. Tips, Substitutions & Notes
Pro Tips for Better Results
- Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking.
- Keep an eye on liquid — add a splash of broth if it gets too thick.
- Don’t overcook — pasta will continue to absorb liquid as it rests.
- For creamier sauce, stir in cheese off heat just before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using too little liquid — pasta needs enough to cook and absorb.
- High heat — it can cause milk or cream to separate.
- Adding cheese too early — it can clump; add near the end.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Milk → almond milk or oat milk for lighter version.
- Parmesan → nutritional yeast for dairy-free flavor.
- Pasta → gluten-free variety if needed.
- Broth → plain water with a bouillon cube.
Texture, Flavor & Health Variations
- Add spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
- Swap tomatoes for roasted red peppers.
- Add a spoon of pesto or sun-dried tomato paste for depth.
- Make it spicy with crushed chili or Cajun seasoning.
5. Storage & Reheating
Refrigeration
Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Freezing
Freeze for up to 2 months — thaw overnight in fridge.
Reheating
- Stovetop: Add splash of milk or broth, reheat over low heat.
- Microwave: Heat in intervals, stirring often for even texture.
6. Nutrition (Approximate)
(per serving)
- Calories: 400–500
- Protein: 18–25g
- Carbs: 55–65g
- Fat: 10–15g
- Fiber: 3–5g
- Sodium: Moderate
7. Conclusion
This One Pot Pasta is the ultimate dinner lifesaver — quick, creamy, flavorful, and made with minimal dishes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends when you want something comforting without the hassle. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s the recipe that made dinners easy again — a simple pot of pasta that always turns out perfect.