One Pot Pasta (The Best Recipe!)

The aroma of sizzling garlic and sautéed onions fills the kitchen, igniting a sense of warmth and comfort. This One Pot Pasta (The Best Recipe!) comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a quick yet flavorful option for dinner. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity: one pot does all the work, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even meal prep. Feel free to prepare it ahead of time, as it stores well and tastes even better the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s ready in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
• The pasta absorbs all the rich flavors from the broth and tomatoes.
• You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
• It’s a creamy, cheesy dish that satisfies cravings and warms the soul.

What You’ll Need

Gather your ingredients to create this delightful dish:

For the Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup onion, chopped
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 14 oz. fresh tomatoes, diced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon chopped Italian basil

For the Pasta

• 8 oz. spaghetti
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste

For Topping

• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped Italian parsley

Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Olive oil can be replaced with any cooking oil.
• Spaghetti is interchangeable with other pasta types.
• Fresh tomatoes can be swapped for canned diced tomatoes.
• Chicken broth can be substituted with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create your One Pot Pasta:

Heat oil

Heat oil in a wide skillet, pan, or pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, then sauté for 3 minutes or until they start to brown.

Combine ingredients

Add the fresh tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian basil, and spaghetti to the pot. Press the spaghetti with a spatula to submerge the pasta in the liquid. If necessary, break the spaghetti in half for better coverage.

Cook pasta

Cover with the lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for 8 minutes or until the pasta is al dente. If the pasta is not fully cooked after 8 minutes, add a little more chicken broth, cover, and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes.

Season and serve

Uncover the lid, add salt, and turn off the heat. Top the pasta with Parmesan cheese and parsley. Serve immediately.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, as the texture may change.
Reheat: Use a microwave or stovetop for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Tips for Best Results

• Don’t skip pressing down the spaghetti for even cooking.
• Adjust the salt to your preference for best flavor.
• Experiment with additional herbs or spices like oregano or crushed red pepper.
• Make sure to use a wide pot for proper pasta cooking.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside garlic bread for a comforting dinner.
• Top with grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.