Easy One Pot Pasta

Need an easy peasy dinner recipe that leaves you with practically zero washing up? Then you need to try my Easy One Pot Pasta. No energy for a complicated meal? No worries, this simple tomato pasta recipe practically cooks itself!

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So when it’s been a long day and you crave something warm and comforting… but you have absolutely no desire to tackle a sink full of dirty pots and pans afterwards… what do you make?

Easy One Pot Pasta, of course!

This recipe is so quick and easy, everything cooks together in the same pot – meaning the pasta soaks up all that savory broth and tomato goodness as it softens. It involves very little effort… perfect for a busy night – and such a satisfying way to get a cozy dinner on the table without the washing up!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Weeknight dinners feel easier when recipes stay simple, and this one checks all the boxes. You get bold flavor, comforting texture, and minimal cleanup without giving up that homemade feel.

One pot magic: Everything cooks together, so cleanup stays quick and painless.

Big flavor payoff: Pasta absorbs the broth, tomatoes, and seasoning as it cooks.

Weeknight friendly: Dinner comes together without extra steps or stress.

Flexible ingredients: Easy to adjust with what you already have on hand.

Comfort food vibes: Warm, saucy pasta always feels satisfying and familiar.

Great for sharing: Makes enough to feed everyone without doubling recipes.

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Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 12 ounces linguine
• 4½ cups chicken broth 
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 6 basil leaves, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 12 ounces cherry tomatoes, cut in half
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Step by Step Instructions

1. Start with the aromatics

Place a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once warm, add the chopped onion and cook for several minutes, stirring often, until it softens and turns lightly golden. Add the minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant, keeping an eye on it so it does not brown.

2. Build the base flavor

Stir in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, letting them toast gently in the oil for about 30 seconds. This step wakes up the spices and gives the whole dish a deeper flavor right from the start.

3. Add tomatoes and broth

Pour in the chicken broth, then add the halved cherry tomatoes. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing the tomatoes to soften slightly as the liquid heats.

4. Add the pasta

Break the linguine in half and lay it into the pot, pressing it down so it sits under the liquid. Stir gently to separate the strands and make sure they are mostly covered by the broth.

5. Let it cook

Reduce the heat to medium and let the pasta simmer uncovered. Stir every minute or so to prevent sticking. As it cooks, the pasta will absorb the broth and release starch, creating a light sauce. This usually takes about 10 to 12 minutes.

6. Finish with cheese

Once the pasta reaches your preferred tenderness and most of the liquid has thickened, turn off the heat. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts smoothly into the sauce, coating every strand.

7. Add fresh herbs

Scatter the chopped basil over the pasta and give it one final gentle stir. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if needed.

8. Rest briefly and serve

Let the pasta sit for a minute or two before serving. This helps the sauce settle and cling to the noodles even better.

Serving Suggestions

Easy One Pot Pasta works beautifully on its own, but it also pairs well with simple sides. A crisp green salad with lemon dressing adds freshness, while warm garlic bread makes the meal feel complete. Sometimes I serve it straight from the pot at the table, letting everyone help themselves while it stays warm.

For a slightly heartier spread, this pasta sits nicely alongside roasted vegetables or grilled chicken. A final sprinkle of extra Parmesan on each bowl always feels like the right finishing touch.

Tips & Variations

• Stir in a splash of cream or milk with the Parmesan.
• Add spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms during cooking.
• Toss in cooked chicken or shrimp near the end.
• Increase red pepper flakes for more heat.
• Fresh parsley or oregano works if basil is unavailable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, short pasta like penne or fettuccine works well. Cooking time may vary slightly.

Does this reheat well?

It reheats nicely on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely. Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth with great results.

Will it stick to the pot?

Regular stirring prevents sticking and helps the sauce thicken evenly.

Can I add more cheese?

Yes, extra Parmesan can be added at serving for a richer taste.

Final Thoughts

Easy One Pot Pasta proves that good food does not need to feel complicated. With just one pot and a handful of ingredients, you get a meal that feels comforting, flavorful, and genuinely homemade. The way the pasta cooks right in the broth gives it a texture and taste that feels extra satisfying.