Why I Love This Pasta
This one-pot pasta is my favorite when I’m tired but want something yummy fast. Everything cooks in one pot, so there’s hardly any dishes to wash! It’s creamy, full of flavor, and ready in about 20 minutes. I toss in whatever veggies I have, and it always turns out great. Here’s my super easy recipe for one-pot pasta you’ll want to make all the time!

What You Need
Here’s what I grab to make this pasta:
- 8 oz (about 225g) Pasta: I use spaghetti or penne, whatever’s in the pantry.
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil: To cook the veggies.
- 1 small Onion: Chopped up small.
- 2 Garlic Cloves: Chopped fine.
- 1 cup (150g) Cherry Tomatoes: Cut in half, or use a small can of diced tomatoes.
- 2 cups (60g) Fresh Spinach: Or any leafy greens like kale.
- 3 cups (720ml) Vegetable Broth: Or water with a bouillon cube.
- 1/2 cup (120ml) Milk or Cream: Milk for lighter, cream for richer.
- 1/4 cup (25g) Parmesan Cheese: Optional, for extra yum.
- 1 tsp Italian Seasoning: Like dried basil or oregano.
- 1/2 tsp Salt: Or more to taste.
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper: For a little zing.
How I Make One-Pot Pasta
Here’s how I do it, super simple:
- Heat Oil: Put 1 tbsp olive oil in a big pot on medium heat.
- Cook Veggies: Add onion and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they smell good and get soft.
- Add Pasta and Stuff: Throw in pasta, tomatoes, broth, seasoning, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir.
- Boil It: Bring it to a boil, then turn heat down to a simmer. Cook 10-12 minutes, stirring a bit, until pasta is soft and most liquid is gone.
- Add Milk and Spinach: Pour in milk or cream and add spinach. Cook 1-2 minutes until spinach shrinks.
- Finish Up: Stir in Parmesan if you’re using it. Taste and add more salt or pepper if you like. Serve it hot!
Tip: Stir every few minutes so the pasta doesn’t stick to the pot.
My Tips for Awesome Pasta
- Any Pasta Works: Penne or spaghetti are my go-to, but use what you have.
- Change Veggies: No spinach? Try zucchini, mushrooms, or broccoli.
- Make It Creamy: Cream makes it rich, but milk works for a lighter dish.
- Save Leftovers: Keep in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat with a splash of water to make it saucy again.
Fun Ways to Mix It Up
I like to play with this recipe sometimes:
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes for some heat.
- Extra Cheesy: Toss in mozzarella or cheddar for a melty vibe.
- Add Protein: Mix in cooked chicken, shrimp, or beans for a bigger meal.
Why This Pasta is So Good
This one-pot pasta is a total lifesaver! It’s fast, uses stuff I usually have, and only dirties one pot. It’s great for busy nights, and everyone in my house loves it. You can make it your own with whatever veggies or sauce you like.
Common Questions
Can I use water instead of broth?
Yup, but broth tastes better. If you use water, add more seasoning or a bouillon cube.
Can I make it without milk or cream?
Sure! Just skip it or use a little extra broth for a lighter sauce.
What if the pasta isn’t done but the liquid’s gone?
Add a splash of water or broth and keep cooking until the pasta’s soft.
Can I freeze this pasta?
It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it for a month. Reheat with some extra liquid.
Final Thoughts
This one-pot pasta is so easy and tastes amazing! It’s perfect for a quick dinner when you don’t want a big mess. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a creamy, yummy meal in no time. Try it and let me know how it goes!