Easy One-Pot Pasta

Craving a hearty, comforting dinner that’s ready in a snap? This Easy One-Pot Pasta is a total lifesaver for busy nights! With just a handful of simple ingredients, minimal cleanup, and loads of flavor, this dish will become your new weeknight favorite.
I get it—life gets hectic, and the last thing you want is a pile of dishes after dinner. That’s where this one-pot pasta comes to the rescue. Everything cooks together in one pot, infusing the pasta with rich, delicious flavors. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable, so you can make it your own. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Easy One-Pot Pasta
- Easy & Quick: Perfect for weeknights when time is tight.
- Minimal Cleanup: Just one pot—no extra pans or strainers to wash!
- Flavorful: The pasta absorbs all the yummy flavors as it cooks.
- Family-Friendly: A dish everyone at the table will enjoy.
How to Make It
Making this one-pot pasta is super simple. Here’s a quick rundown so you know exactly what to expect:
First, grab a large pot or deep skillet (bonus points if it has a lid). Start by sautéing your aromatics—think onions and garlic—for that irresistible base layer of flavor.
Next, toss in your uncooked pasta, diced tomatoes, broth, and your favorite seasonings. The magic happens as everything simmers together. The pasta cooks right in the sauce, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
Give it a few stirs along the way to keep things from sticking, and before you know it, dinner is done! Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs on top, and you’re ready to serve.

Make-Ahead Method
Want to save even more time during the week? You can prep some of the ingredients in advance:
- Chop the garlic, onions, or any veggies you’re adding and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Measure out your seasonings and keep them in a small bowl or jar.
- If you’re adding a protein like shredded chicken or cooked shrimp, you can have that ready to go as well.
While this recipe is best made fresh, these quick prep steps will make it even easier when you’re ready to cook.
Pro Tips
- Stir Often: Since everything cooks in one pot, give it a stir every 5 minutes to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.
- Use the Right Pasta: Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work best because they cook evenly and soak up the sauce.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks. You want it to be al dente, which means tender but with a little bite.
- Adjust the Liquid: If it looks like the liquid is evaporating too quickly, add a splash more broth or water to keep the pasta cooking.
- Finish with Freshness: A squeeze of lemon juice or a handful of fresh basil can brighten up the flavors right before serving.
Storage Options
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store and reheat your one-pot pasta:
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: While pasta can get a little soft after freezing, you can still freeze this dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Add a splash of water or broth when reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave to bring back the creamy consistency.

Tools For This Recipe
- Large Pot or Deep Skillet: A wide pot with a lid works best for even cooking.
- Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring the pasta without scratching your pot.
- Knife & Cutting Board: For prepping your aromatics and any additional veggies.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: To get those seasonings just right.
FAQs!
Q: Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just keep an eye on the cooking time since gluten-free pasta can cook faster or differently.
Q: What other veggies can I add?
This recipe is super flexible! Bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms would all be delicious additions.
Q: Can I swap out the broth for something else?
Yes! You can use water if you’re in a pinch, but broth adds extra flavor. Vegetable broth or chicken broth works great.
Q: How do I make it creamy?
Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese at the end for a creamy twist.
Variations and Substitutions
- Veggie Lovers: Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for extra veggies.
- Protein Boost: Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken, cooked shrimp, or even canned chickpeas for added protein.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in mozzarella or top with shredded Parmesan for a gooey, cheesy finish.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for a little heat.
- Herb Swap: Use fresh parsley, basil, or oregano to switch up the flavor profile.

Conclusion
And there you have it—Easy One-Pot Pasta that’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe is so versatile and forgiving, you can make it your own with whatever you have on hand.
I’d love to hear how this turned out for you! Did you add any fun twists or substitutions? Let me know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family.

Easy One-Pot Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 12 ounces pasta penne, fusilli, or rigatoni
- 1 can 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional
- Fresh basil for garnish optional
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the uncooked pasta, diced tomatoes (with their juice), broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid has reduced.
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese, if using.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
- Enjoy! 😊