Description
This One Pan Pasta recipe is a quick and easy Italian-inspired meal perfect for busy weeknights. Cook spaghetti, cherry tomatoes, garlic, and herbs all in one pan with vegetable broth for a flavorful, hassle-free dinner. Optional heavy cream can be added for a creamy twist. It’s a comforting, wholesome vegetarian dish that requires minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Liquids and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese and Optional Add-ins
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- Optional: 1/2 cup heavy cream for a creamy version
Instructions
- Sauté the Onion: In a large, deep skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Pasta and Liquids: Add the uncooked spaghetti, halved cherry tomatoes, vegetable broth, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer the Pasta: Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 9 to 11 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pasta is al dente and most of the broth has been absorbed.
- Incorporate Greens and Cheese: Stir in the baby spinach, chopped fresh basil, and grated Parmesan cheese until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the pasta.
- Optional Creamy Finish: For a creamy version, add the heavy cream now and stir to combine evenly throughout the pasta.
- Serve: Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth for vegetable broth if you prefer a non-vegetarian option.
- Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms to boost the protein content.
- Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be used—just adjust the cooking time as needed for the pasta type.
