One-Pot Pasta : When you’re short on time but craving a delicious homemade meal, a one-pot pasta recipe can be a lifesaver. This cooking method allows you to prepare a satisfying meal with minimal effort and cleanup. In this article, we’ll guide you through a quick and easy one-pot pasta recipe that will leave your taste buds delighted and your kitchen mess-free.
Quick and Easy One-Pot Pasta Recipe for Busy Weeknights
Serves: 6
Prep Time: 5 Minutes
Cooking Time: 10 Minutes
Ingredients
- 8 ounces (about 2 cups) of pasta (such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) of diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14 ounces) of tomato sauce
- 2 cups of vegetable or chicken broth (use low-sodium if desired)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat the Olive Oil:
- In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- Add the finely chopped onion to the heated oil and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
3. Add the Pasta:
- Break the pasta in half and add it to the pot. Stir it into the onion and garlic mixture to coat it with the oil.
4. Pour in the Tomatoes and Sauce:
- Add the can of diced tomatoes (with their juice) and the tomato sauce to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Season and Simmer:
- Add the vegetable or chicken broth, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
6. Cook the Pasta:
- Cover the pot and let the pasta simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until it’s cooked to your desired level of doneness. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Add Heavy Cream (Optional):
- If you want to make your one-pot pasta extra creamy, you can stir in the heavy cream at this stage. This step is optional but adds a luscious richness to the dish.
8. Garnish and Serve:
- Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove the pot from heat.
- If desired, garnish your one-pot pasta with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves before serving.
9. Enjoy Your Quick and Easy Meal:
- Serve your one-pot pasta directly from the skillet or pot. It’s a complete meal in one dish, but you can also pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a more substantial feast.
This quick and easy one-pot pasta recipe is a perfect solution for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a comforting and flavorful meal without the fuss. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or protein, and don’t forget to savor each bite of this effortless and satisfying dish.