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One Pot Pasta

One Pot Pasta is a simple yet comforting dish where pasta, garlic, herbs, and cheese cook together in a single pan, creating a creamy, flavorful sauce. The pasta becomes tender and coated in a luscious mixture, with the ingredients melding into an aromatic and satisfying finished dish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz dry pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your choice) uncooked
  • 4 cups vegetable broth or water
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved, optional for color and freshness
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves chopped
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese or your favorite melting cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large deep skillet or saucepan
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cooking spoon

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers and begins to smell fragrant.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, until it becomes fragrant and just starts to turn golden around the edges.
  3. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the dry pasta, making sure the liquid covers the pasta completely. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a steady simmer.
  4. Cook the pasta uncovered, stirring occasionally, until it is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed, about 10-12 minutes. You should see bubbles forming around the pasta as it softens and swells.
  5. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped basil, letting them cook for a couple of minutes until the tomatoes soften slightly and release their juices, filling the pan with vibrant color and aroma.
  6. Add the shredded cheese to the skillet and stir continuously until it melts into the pasta, creating a creamy, luscious sauce that coats every strand.
  7. Season generously with salt and freshly ground pepper, tasting and adjusting to your preference. The sauce should be thick and cling to the noodles with a glossy finish.
  8. Once everything is well combined and heated through, turn off the heat and let the dish rest for a minute. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to settle into perfect creaminess.
  9. Serve the One Pot Pasta immediately, garnished with extra basil if desired, and enjoy the warm, cheesy, flavorful bowl straight from the pan.