One Pot Pasta (The Best Recipe!)

Cooking often brings back cherished memories and delightful experiences. One pot pasta, in particular, stands out as a symbol of simplicity and flavor. I remember the first time I tried my hand at this dish. The aroma of sautéed garlic and onions filled my kitchen, and I found myself eagerly awaiting dinner. The best part? I only had to clean one pot after!

This dish embodies the essence of comfort food, where fresh ingredients transform into a warm, satisfying meal. My family gathered around the table, sharing not just the meal but laughter and stories. One pot pasta makes cooking accessible and enjoyable, ensuring that everyone can create something wonderful with minimal effort.

Let’s dive into the delicious world of one pot pasta and explore how to make this delightful dish that brings more than just nourishment.

One Pot Pasta — The Essentials

Fundamentals

One pot pasta simplifies weeknight dinners, cutting down on both preparation time and the number of dishes used. When you cook pasta in a single pot, you not only save time but also allow the flavors to meld beautifully. This method makes the pasta incredibly flavorful, as it absorbs all the tasty broth and sautéed ingredients.

For this recipe, you don’t need fancy tools or elaborate techniques. A wide skillet, pan, or pot works perfectly. The key lies in the timing and the order of adding your ingredients to create that delightful balance of taste and texture.

Preparation/Setup

Preparing one pot pasta involves a few simple steps. Start by gathering all your ingredients to make the process smoother. Chop the onion and mince the garlic in advance. Measure out the chicken broth, and dice your fresh tomatoes. Having everything ready allows you to enjoy the cooking process without feeling rushed.

When ready to cook, choose a skillet or pot that can fit all your ingredients comfortably. Heating the olive oil over medium heat sets the stage for sautéing the onions and garlic. This initial step builds a foundation of flavor that enhances the entire dish.

Ingredients

To create this deliciously easy one pot pasta, you’ll need:

• 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
• 8 oz. spaghetti
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped Italian parsley

Directions

To start, heat the olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3 minutes until they start to brown. This creates a fragrant base that’s hard to resist.

Next, you’ll add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chopped Italian basil, and spaghetti to the skillet. Press the spaghetti down gently with a spatula to ensure it submerges within the broth. If your skillet isn’t wide enough to accommodate the spaghetti, feel free to break it in half.

Cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the pasta to cook for about 8 minutes until it reaches al dente. If it’s not quite done at that point, simply add a bit more chicken broth, cover again, and let it cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes.

Once the spaghetti achieves the perfect tenderness, uncover the lid. Add salt to taste and turn off the heat. Top the pasta with shredded Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a fresh finish. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors that come together in this one pot wonder.

Elevating Your One Pot Pasta Experience

Technique

Mastering the one pot pasta technique can revolutionize your weeknight dinners. The beauty of this meal lies in its single-pot preparation, resulting in a comforting dish without the hassle of extensive clean-up.

Knowing how to sauté onions and garlic properly enhances the depth of flavor. Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding these ingredients to achieve that lovely golden brown color. This browning process releases essential oils, infusing the dish with aroma and richness.

Tips/Tricks

Achieving the perfect one pot pasta takes a bit of practice, but a few tips can enhance your results. First, always use fresh pasta if available; it cooks faster and can add a different texture. Adjust the amount of chicken broth depending on how saucy you like your pasta. Some prefer a thicker sauce, while others enjoy it a bit more soupy.

Using a variety of fresh herbs can elevate the dish further. While this recipe calls for Italian basil, consider experimenting with oregano, thyme, or even a touch of chili flakes for some heat.

Perfecting One Pot Pasta

Perfecting Results

To ensure your one pot pasta turns out perfectly, pay attention to the cooking time. Overcooked pasta can become mushy, losing that delightful bite. Tasting the pasta a minute or two before the suggested cooking time helps you catch it at just the right moment.

Another tip for perfect results is to make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before cooking. Cold ingredients can lower the temperature of the pot, affecting cooking time.

Troubleshooting/Variations

Sometimes, things don’t go as planned in the kitchen. If you find your pasta isn’t cooking as expected, it may need more liquid. Adding a splash of chicken broth in small increments will help without overwhelming the dish.

Variations are endless with one pot pasta. Feel free to incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for a more nutritious meal. Alternatively, you can add protein, such as shredded chicken or sautéed shrimp, for a heartier version.

Serving One Pot Pasta

Serving/Presentation

Presentation plays a crucial role in enjoying your meal. Carefully ladle portions of the pasta into bowls, allowing the cheese and parsley to elegantly sit atop. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan can elevate the visual appeal and serve as a flavorful finishing touch.

Serving one pot pasta right away ensures everyone enjoys it at its best. The warmth of the dish complements the rich flavors, creating a comforting meal that connects everyone at the table.

Pairings/Storage

While it’s essential to enjoy your one pot pasta fresh, it also makes for excellent leftovers. Store any remaining pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or olive oil to keep it moist.

As for pairings, consider fresh salads or garlic bread alongside your meal for added texture and flavor. A simple garden salad can refresh your palate and balance the richness of the pasta.

One pot pasta showcases the beauty and simplicity of home-cooked meals, allowing you to bring warmth and flavor to your table with minimal fuss. This dish invites creativity, ensuring every bite is filled with love and care. Enjoy every moment of cooking, eating, and sharing this wonderful meal with those you cherish.