Name: One-Pot Pasta for Busy Weeknights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 250g spaghetti (or any pasta you like); 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, sliced thin; 3 cups vegetable broth; ½ cup milk or cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; A handful of fresh basil leaves; Grated Parmesan or vegan cheese (optional)

We all have those days when we’re tired, hungry, and just want something quick, comforting, and delicious. That’s where my One-Pot Pasta comes in! It’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights — everything cooks in one pot, which means less cleanup and more time to relax. The best part? It’s creamy, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes.

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My Encounter with One-Pot Pasta

I still remember the first time I made this dish, it was a rainy evening after a long, tiring day. I didn’t have the energy to wash a mountain of dishes, but I still wanted something cozy and satisfying. I threw everything into one pot, unsure how it would turn out. The aroma of garlic, tomatoes, and basil slowly filled the kitchen, and when I took my first bite… wow. It was creamy, rich, and so comforting that I couldn’t stop smiling.

Since then, One-Pot Pasta has become my go-to dinner whenever I need something easy yet fulfilling. It’s the kind of meal that makes you slow down, take a deep breath, and remember that good food doesn’t have to be complicate, it just needs to be made with heart.

How to make One Pot Pasta:

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion, and sauté until fragrant and golden.
Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften and release their juices.
Pour in the vegetable broth and milk, then add your uncooked pasta directly into the pot. Season with salt and pepper.
Stir occasionally and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened beautifully.
Turn off the heat, toss in fresh basil, and sprinkle with cheese if you like.

Tips for Making One-Pan Pasta

Season from the start: Don’t wait until the end to add salt! Sprinkle in salt, crushed red pepper, or any of your favorite seasonings before adding the boiling water. This helps the pasta soak up all that flavor while it cooks — and you’ll actually end up using less salt overall.
Give it a stir (or two): This isn’t a totally hands-off recipe, but it’s close! Just remember to stir the pasta every now and then as it cooks with the veggies and broth. It only takes about 10 minutes, and that bit of stirring keeps everything from sticking together.
Switch up your liquid: One-pan pasta is super flexible. Try using veggie or chicken broth instead of plain water for an extra boost of flavor. It makes a big difference with almost no extra effort!
Keep an eye on the liquid: I usually go with about 1 cup of liquid for every 2 ounces of pasta, but it can vary. If start looking dry before the pasta’s done, just splash in a bit more water or broth — easy fix!

Frequently Asked Questions 🍝

1. What makes one-pan pasta so special?
It’s all about convenience! Everything — pasta, veggies, and sauce — cooks together in one pan, which means fewer dishes to wash and flavors that blend beautifully. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy evenings when you want something homemade without the hassle.

2. Do I need to cook the pasta separately first?
Nope! That’s the beauty of it. The pasta cooks right in the sauce and absorbs all the delicious flavors while it softens. Just keep an eye on the liquid and give it a little stir now and then.

3. Can I make this recipe vegan or gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta if you’d like, and swap out any dairy or meat-based ingredients for your favorite vegan options. Vegetable broth, plant-based milk, and olive oil all work wonderfully here.

4. What’s the best type of pasta to use?
Linguine or spaghetti works best for this one-pan method, but you can try penne, fettuccine, or any shape you love. Just remember that thicker pasta might need a little more liquid or cooking time.

5. How can I make the flavor richer?
Use broth instead of water, toss in a few herbs like basil or oregano, or add a splash of cream or coconut milk for a silky texture. Don’t be afraid to get creative — one-pan pasta is all about flexibility!

6. Can I store leftovers?
Definitely. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to bring the sauce back to life.