One Pot Pasta (The Best Recipe!)

There’s something undeniably comforting about the rich aroma of garlic and tomatoes filling your kitchen as you prepare a meal. This One Pot Pasta (The Best Recipe!) delivers a delightful experience of flavor and simplicity, taking just under 30 minutes from start to finish. The magic of this recipe lies in its effortless cooking technique, allowing you to savor a delicious, hearty dish without the fuss of multiple pots and pans.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings with friends. It’s a one-pot wonder that not only feeds a crowd but also makes for great leftovers. If you want to prepare ahead, simply cook the pasta and store it in the fridge for quick reheating.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal cleanup with just one pot needed.
• Fresh tomatoes create a burst of flavor.
• Quick cooking time means less waiting, more eating.
• The perfect balance of cheesy goodness and aromatic herbs.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients for a perfect meal:

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

For Serving

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

Note: You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Olive oil: Canola oil or avocado oil
• Fresh tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes
• Spaghetti: Any long pasta variety
• Parmesan cheese: Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast

How to Make It

Start cooking delicious pasta!

Heat

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

Add

Add the tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian basil, and spaghetti. Press the spaghetti with a spatula to submerge the pasta in the liquid. If your skillet, pan, or pot is not wide enough, break the spaghetti in half before cooking.

Cover

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.

Finish

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, pasta texture may suffer.
Reheat: Microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Use fresh, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Adjust salt to your preference, especially if using salted broth.
• Make sure to stir the pasta halfway through cooking for even doneness.
• Garnish with extra herbs for added freshness.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad for a full meal.
• Serve alongside garlic bread for an indulgent treat.
• Enjoy with a glass of white wine for a cozy dinner.