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The aroma of a warm, hearty pasta dish bubbling away on the stove—there’s nothing quite like it! My love for One-Pot Pasta Dinner blossomed on a chilly autumn evening when I was searching for a meal that would wrap me in comfort. The scent of sautéed garlic and onions mingling with the rich, roasted tomatoes was like a cozy embrace, instantly lifting my spirits. It was love at first sniff! The best part? It all comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Trust me, between the luscious flavor and the ease of making it, you’ll fall hard for this dish just like I did.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Prep: Just one pot means less fuss and more fun!
Quick to Make: Dinner can be ready in about 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with vegetables and nutrients, it’s a nourishing hug for your insides.
Full of Flavor: The Italian seasoning and fresh garlic create a medley that’ll dance on your taste buds.
Crowd-Pleasing: This dish is great for families or gatherings—the more, the merrier!

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (e.g., spaghetti or penne): Choose your favorite pasta shape! Whole grain options add a nice nutty flavor—bonus health points!
2 tbsp olive oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil makes everything taste better and helps in sautéing. It’s like liquid gold!
1 onion, chopped: The foundation of flavor! Sweet and aromatic, it adds a warm undertone to the dish.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Ah, garlic—the superstar of seasoning! It not only enhances flavor but also fills your kitchen with a heavenly aroma.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Juicy and vibrant, these add richness and depth to our pasta—plus, they’re so convenient!
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth: Use homemade or store-bought; it’s the comforting backdrop that brings all the flavors together.
1 tsp Italian seasoning: This mix of dried herbs adds a touch of the Mediterranean. Feel free to adjust to your preferences!
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for elevating all the flavors. Don’t be shy—season it just right!
Parmesan cheese for serving (optional): Because everything’s better with cheese, isn’t it? A sprinkle of cheese adds delicious creaminess.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

Step 1: Heat That Olive Oil

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it shimmers, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. As they sizzle and soften, breathe deeply—you’ll soon be enveloped in that fantastic aroma!

Step 2: Bring on the Tomatoes!

Stir in the can of diced tomatoes along with the Italian seasoning. Watch as the bright red tomatoes mingle with your sautéed veggies. The colors alone are enough to brighten your day!

Step 3: Pasta Party!

Add the pasta and pour in the broth. Give everything a good stir, then bring it to a delightful boil. You’ll be hearing some lovely bubbling—this is music to your ears!

Step 4: Low and Slow

Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer. Your kitchen will start to smell like a warm Italian trattoria, trust me! Continue to stir occasionally, allowing the pasta to soak up all the wonderful flavors.

Step 5: Season to Perfection

After about 10-12 minutes, when the pasta is al dente, season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t skimp here—a little seasoning goes a long way!

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Spoon your luscious One-Pot Pasta into bowls. If you’re feeling extra delicious, top with Parmesan cheese. Serve it hot and watch everyone gather around the table—there’s nothing quite like it!

Pro Tips for Success

For Extra Veggie Power: Toss in some spinach or kale toward the end of cooking. They’ll wilt beautifully without losing their nutrients!
Pasta Type: Different pastas have different cooking times, so keep an eye on them. Just a little taste test will tell you when they’re done!
Broth Flavor: Use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake; you can always add more seasoning later.
Make it Creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or yogurt just before serving for an extra-rich texture!
Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning as you cook. Cooking is all about personal touch, after all!

Flavor Variations

Swap the Pasta: Try gluten-free pasta or zoodles if you’re feeling adventurous!
Add Protein: Diced chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can be a delightful addition for more heartiness.
Spice it Up: Want a kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped olives for that briny edge!
Seasonal Touch: Add seasonal veggies, like bell peppers in summer or butternut squash in fall!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your One-Pot Pasta with a light salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette for a balanced meal. Think about serving it with crusty bread for sopping up all the delicious sauce. A glass of crisp white wine or a refreshing lemonade makes for a perfect sip alongside this cozy dish. And don’t forget some colorful napkins and a candle to set the mood!

Make-Ahead & Storage

Feel free to prepare this dish ahead of time! You can cook it, let it cool, and store it in the fridge for up to three days. When storing, make sure it’s in an airtight container to keep those flavors nice and fresh.

Leftovers

Got leftovers? Consider turning them into a savory pasta bake! Just mix with a bit of cheese and pop it into the oven until bubbly. You could also use leftover pasta in a salad with fresh veggies—perfect for lunch the next day!

Freezing

You can indeed freeze your One-Pot Pasta! Make sure to let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When it’s time to enjoy, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth to keep it moist. You could also pop it in the microwave, but make sure to stir halfway through so it heats evenly!

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta will add a lovely nuttiness and is a bit healthier too.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Just adjust the liquid amounts and cook it on low for several hours. Keep an eye on it!

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No worries! You can use individual spices like oregano, basil, and thyme instead for a similar flavor profile.

Can I add other ingredients?
For sure! Feel free to throw in any veggies or proteins you have on hand—it’s all about personalizing it to your taste.

Final Thoughts

Cooking should be a joyful experience, always! This One-Pot Pasta Dinner is not just a recipe; it’s a reminder of the warmth and connection food can bring to our lives. So gather your loved ones, fill those bowls, and bask in the delight as you share this comforting meal together. Each bite is a step closer to feeling right at home. Happy cooking, my friends!

Enjoy every moment in your cozy kitchen!

Much love and deliciousness,
Chef Ellie 🥰

One-pot pasta dinner prepared with fresh ingredients in a single pot

Ellie