Description
One-pot pasta dishes transform ordinary weeknight dinners into effortless culinary experiences with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini recommended)
- 4–5 cups liquid (broth, milk, or tomato base)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1–2 cups mixed vegetables (zucchini, peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms)
- 1 lb chicken, beef, sausage, or shrimp (optional)
- 1 cup Parmesan or feta cheese
- Fresh herbs (basil, oregano, parsley)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven.
- Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add chosen protein (if using) and cook until browned.
- Add pasta, vegetables, and 4–5 cups of liquid.
- Season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally.
- Cook until pasta is al dente and liquid is absorbed (12–15 minutes).
- Stir in cheese and additional fresh herbs.
- Adjust consistency with extra broth if needed.
- Serve hot and garnish with fresh herbs or lemon juice.
Notes
Stick with short pasta shapes for best texture. Always adjust liquid levels during cooking to prevent sticking or drying out.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: one-pot pasta, quick dinner, easy pasta recipe, weeknight meal