One Pan Pasta

Try this One Pan Pasta recipe, or contribute your own.

One Pan Pasta
One Pan Pasta

Step-by-step

  • Peel and thinly slice your red onion.
  • Peel and thinly slice your garlic cloves.
  • Wash and halve your cherry tomatoes.
  • Get out a large straight-sided skillet pan and put in your pasta, tomatoes, red onion, garlic, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, basil sprigs, olive oil and pour in the 4 1/2 cups water.
  • Turn up the heat to high and bring the water to a boil.
  • Let the water come to a full boil. You will see bubbles on the side of the pan at first, but wait until you see bubbles all over the pan.
  • Once your water comes to a full boil, set your timer to 9 minutes. Note: If you're using a whole-wheat or quinoa pasta, you may want to check their cooking times and adjust the cooking time accordingly. I have not used either of those pastas so I can't tell you how this recipe works with those types of pastas.
  • Stand by the stove and using tongs, lift and move the pasta around every so often so that it doesn't stick to the bottom of the pan. You will notice that most of the water is evaporating and getting thicker, and everything is starting to cook down like the tomatoes and the onions.
  • Test the pasta at 9 minutes and it should be al dente!
  • Turn off the heat and give the pasta a few quick tosses. There will be some liquid at the bottom of the pan, but don't fret, the liquid will thicken up and turn into a sauce.
  • Serve up the pasta in large bowls and top with some Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. The basil leaves really add that extra punch of flavor, so be sure to top everyone's pasta with a few leaves.

One Pan Pasta: A Weeknight Wonder

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy meal can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Weeknights are a whirlwind of homework, soccer practice, and the never-ending to-do list. That’s why I’ve become a huge fan of one-pan recipes – they’re quick, easy, and minimize the cleanup! This One Pan Pasta is my absolute go-to. It’s ready in under 15 minutes and tastes like I spent hours in the kitchen (don’t tell anyone!).

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Everything cooks together in one pan – pasta, vegetables, and sauce all in one delicious, harmonious blend. No more boiling water separately for the pasta, no more juggling multiple pots and pans. Just one pan, minimal cleanup, and maximum flavor. It's the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without the fuss.

What I love about this recipe:

  • Speed: Ready in under 15 minutes!
  • Ease: Minimal prep and cleanup.
  • Flavor: Delicious and satisfying.
  • Health: A good source of vegetables and carbohydrates.
  • Versatility: You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables and cheeses.

Tips and Tricks for One-Pan Pasta Success:

While the recipe is straightforward, a few tips can elevate your One Pan Pasta experience:

  • Use the right pasta: Linguine or other long pasta works best in this recipe. Avoid using angel hair or quinoa pasta as they cook faster and might overcook before the other ingredients.
  • Don't overcook: Keep an eye on the pasta and adjust the cooking time depending on your preference. Al dente is the way to go!
  • Stir regularly: Stirring the pasta periodically prevents it from sticking to the bottom of the pan and ensures even cooking.
  • Embrace the sauce: The liquid left in the pan at the end will thicken into a delicious sauce. Don't drain it!
  • Garnish generously: Fresh basil and Parmesan cheese are the perfect finishing touches to this dish, adding pops of freshness and flavor.

This One Pan Pasta recipe has quickly become a family favorite. It's a lifesaver on busy weeknights, a crowd-pleaser for casual gatherings, and a testament to the fact that delicious and healthy food doesn't have to be complicated. Give it a try, and I promise you won't be disappointed. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables and spices to make it your own!

I often double the recipe for leftovers, perfect for a quick lunch the following day. And yes, my kids actually ask for seconds! It’s a win-win – a quick and easy meal that everyone enjoys, leaving me with more time to spend with my family, rather than stuck in the kitchen. What could be better than that?

Let me know in the comments how your One Pan Pasta turns out. I’d love to hear your experiences and any modifications you make to this simple yet satisfying recipe. Happy cooking!