Looking for a quick, comforting meal with minimal cleanup? This One Pot Pasta is the answer! Everything cooks together in a single pot—including the pasta, vegetables, seasonings, and broth—creating a rich, flavorful sauce that perfectly coats every bite.

This easy one-pot dinner is ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or whenever you need a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Packed with garlic, tomatoes, Italian herbs, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil, it’s simple enough for beginners but delicious enough for the whole family.

Best of all, you’ll only have one pot to wash!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One pot means easy cleanup
• Ready in just 30 minutes
• Rich, creamy, and flavorful
• Budget-friendly ingredients
• Perfect for busy weeknights
• Easy to customize
• Family-friendly
• Great for leftovers

Ingredients

• 12 ounces penne pasta (or your favorite short pasta)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Kitchen Equipment

• Large Dutch oven or deep skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater
• Ladle

How to Make One Pot Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Tomatoes and Seasonings

Add the cherry tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir everything together and cook until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Then, add the uncooked pasta directly into the pot, making sure it is mostly submerged in the liquid.

Step 4: Simmer the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 12–15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts completely and creates a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the pasta.

Step 6: Add the Spinach

Add the fresh baby spinach to the pot. Stir and cook for 1–2 minutes until the spinach wilts and blends into the pasta.

Step 7: Finish with Fresh Herbs

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil. This adds a burst of fresh flavor to the dish.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the pasta immediately while it’s hot. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper for added flavor.

Tips for the Best One Pot Pasta

• Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
• Add extra broth if the pasta absorbs too much liquid.
• Don’t overcook the pasta.
• Finish with fresh herbs for the best flavor.

Variations

Chicken One Pot Pasta

Add cooked shredded chicken or diced grilled chicken.

Sausage Pasta

Brown Italian sausage before adding the onions.

Vegetarian Version

Use vegetable broth and add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.

Spicy Pasta

Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

What to Serve With

• Garlic bread
• Caesar salad
• Roasted broccoli
• Steamed green beans
• Bruschetta
• Garlic knots

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another pasta shape?

Yes! Rotini, fusilli, rigatoni, or bow ties all work well.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes. Substitute the heavy cream with unsweetened dairy-free cream and use dairy-free Parmesan.

Can I add protein?

Absolutely! Chicken, shrimp, Italian sausage, or even ground turkey are great additions.

Why is my sauce too thick?

Simply stir in a little extra broth until the desired consistency is reached.

Recipe Notes

• Freshly grated Parmesan melts much better than pre-shredded cheese.
• Adjust the amount of broth depending on the pasta shape you use.
• Serve immediately for the creamiest texture.

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Pasta is proof that simple ingredients can create an incredibly satisfying meal. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with fresh flavors, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep. With just one pot and about 30 minutes, you’ll have a comforting homemade dinner everyone will request again and again.