10 Irresistible One Pot Pasta Recipes for Busy Nights

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a pot bubbling away on the stove, filling the kitchen with wonderful scents that make your stomach growl and your heart flutter. Imagine pasta, perfectly cooked, enveloped in a creamy sauce bursting with flavors that dance on your palate. This is what one pot pasta recipes bring to life—a delightful symphony of taste and aroma that makes every bite a celebration.

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends, one pot pasta recipes are the answer to your culinary prayers. These dishes not only simplify cooking but also ensure you enjoy every moment spent around the table, sharing stories and laughter while devouring mouthwatering goodness.

Cooking this dish is always a hit; my friends rave about it every time I serve it at dinner parties.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Choose your favorite type—spaghetti or penne works great for soaking up all the flavors.

• Fresh Vegetables: Bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini add color and nutrients; choose seasonal produce for the best flavor.

• Protein: Chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas work wonderfully; pick what suits your dietary needs.

• Creamy Sauce Base: A mix of broth and cream creates a rich sauce; use low-sodium broth for better control over salt.

• Herbs and Spices: Fresh basil or oregano enhances flavor; feel free to experiment with spices to suit your taste.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grated cheese adds depth—don’t skip this essential ingredient for ultimate creaminess.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Begin by preparing your ingredients: Gather everything you’ll need and chop up those veggies into bite-sized pieces. This makes cooking smoother and ensures even cooking throughout.

Heat Things Up: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and let it warm up. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers invitingly.

Add Your Protein: Toss in diced chicken or shrimp and season them lightly with salt and pepper. Sauté until they turn golden brown and are cooked through—about 5-7 minutes—and watch out for that irresistible aroma!

Toss in Vegetables: Add chopped vegetables next; bell peppers and zucchini are my go-tos! Stir them until they soften slightly—around 3-4 minutes—creating a colorful medley.

Pasta Time!: Pour in dry pasta along with your chosen broth—enough liquid to cover everything by an inch should do the trick! Bring it all to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally.

Finish With Creaminess: Once the pasta is al dente (that perfect bite), reduce heat further and stir in cream along with grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Let everything meld together for a couple of minutes until luxuriously creamy.

Garnish and Serve!: Finish off with fresh herbs sprinkled on top before serving. Enjoy immediately while it’s hot! Your guests will be amazed at how something so delicious can come from just one pot!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing aromatics like garlic and onions in olive oil, then add your pasta, broth, and veggies. This sequence locks in flavor and ensures everything cooks evenly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what’s in your fridge or add protein like chicken or shrimp. Seasonings can also be adjusted to suit your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to revive its creamy texture.

Sharing my first attempt at one pot pasta was hilarious—my friends dubbed it “sauce soup,” but we all loved it anyway!

FAQ

What types of pasta work best for one pot pasta recipes?

Short shapes like penne or fusilli hold sauce well and cook evenly in one pot.

Can I use gluten-free pasta in these recipes?

Yes, just be mindful of cooking times as gluten-free pasta often cooks faster.

Do I need any special equipment for one pot pasta recipes?

A large pot or Dutch oven is perfect; no fancy gadgets needed!

Print

One Pot Pasta Delight

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Rachel Lawson
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in a creamy, flavorful one pot pasta that transforms a simple meal into a culinary celebration. This dish combines perfectly cooked pasta with fresh vegetables and protein, all enveloped in a rich sauce. Ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining friends, this easy recipe ensures minimal cleanup and maximal deliciousness!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or penne)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb diced chicken or shrimp
• 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
• 1 cup zucchini, chopped
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or oregano for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken or shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until golden brown (5-7 minutes).
2. Stir in chopped bell peppers and zucchini; cook for another 3-4 minutes until they soften.
3. Pour in dry pasta and chicken broth (enough to cover by an inch). Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
4. Once pasta is al dente, reduce heat and mix in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving hot.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 95mg