Creamy One Pot Pasta
If you’re looking for a comforting, delicious meal that requires minimal effort and cleanup, then this Creamy One Pot Pasta is calling your name! This recipe brings together the rich flavors of marinara, diced tomatoes, and creamy goodness, all in one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this dish is a family favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds. With its vibrant colors and delightful aromas, it’s not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that you can whip up in no time.
Top Reasons to Make Creamy One Pot Pasta
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in one pot, making prep and cleanup a breeze.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and heavy cream creates a rich, flavorful sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
- Nutritious: Loaded with fresh spinach, this pasta dish is not only creamy but also packed with nutrients.
- Versatile: Easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or to cater to different dietary preferences.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
What You’ll Need
- 12 oz. short pasta: Rotini, penne, or ziti work beautifully.
- 3 cups vegetable broth: Chicken broth can also be used for additional flavor.
- 1 can diced tomatoes: Approximately 14 oz.; do not drain the liquid!
- 1 cup marinara sauce: Your favorite brand or homemade.
- 3 cups chopped baby spinach: Fresh and loosely packed for the best flavor.
- 1 onion: Finely chopped for a base of flavor.
- 3-4 garlic cloves: Minced for that aromatic touch.
- 2-3 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs for a savory boost.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adjust for desired creaminess.
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan: For a cheesy finish.
- ¾ tsp cracked pepper: To taste.
- ½ tsp sea salt: Adjust as needed.
- ½ cup fresh basil: Chopped; optional but highly recommended for garnish.
Essential Tools for Success
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking everything in one place.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the pasta and sauce together.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
- Cutting board and knife: For chopping vegetables.
Build Creamy One Pot Pasta Step by Step
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then toss in the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients
To the pot, add the uncooked short pasta, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (with their liquid), and marinara sauce. Stir to combine all the ingredients, ensuring that the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
Step 3: Season the Mixture
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, sea salt, and cracked pepper. Stir to evenly distribute the seasonings throughout the pot.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Add the Cream and Spinach
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and chopped baby spinach. The spinach will wilt quickly, adding a vibrant green color and nutritional boost to your dish.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. If desired, feel free to add more heavy cream for an even richer sauce.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
To finish, sprinkle with fresh basil before serving. This adds a lovely aroma and a hint of freshness that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Dietary Swaps & Alternatives
- For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.
- Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream for a dairy-free option.
- Use any leafy greens (like kale) instead of spinach for variety.
- Substitute parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative if desired.
Behind the Recipe
This Creamy One Pot Pasta recipe was inspired by the need for quick meals that don’t compromise on flavor. The one-pot method not only speeds up the cooking process but also allows for a cohesive blend of ingredients, ensuring every bite is as delicious as the last. It’s a great way to clear out your pantry and fridge, making room for fresh ingredients while delighting your taste buds.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
This dish can easily be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the sauce as needed.
Top Questions & Answers
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! This recipe works with any short pasta like rotini, penne, or ziti. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the type of pasta you choose.
How do I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes to the sautéed onions and garlic for a kick! You can also mix in chopped fresh chili peppers when you add the other ingredients.
What can I serve with Creamy One Pot Pasta?
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad, crusty bread, or even garlic bread for a hearty meal. You could also serve it alongside grilled vegetables or a protein of your choice.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare this dish up to the point of adding the cream and spinach. Store it in the fridge, and when you’re ready to serve, reheat and add the cream, spinach, and cheese.
Make It Tonight
There’s no time like the present to dive into this delightful Creamy One Pot Pasta. With its simple ingredients and quick cooking process, you can have a delicious meal on the table in just under 30 minutes. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a comforting dish that will leave you and your loved ones craving more.
This Creamy One Pot Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor, comfort, and simplicity that you can enjoy any night of the week. Happy cooking!
Creamy One Pot Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then toss in the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- To the pot, add the uncooked short pasta, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (with their liquid), and marinara sauce. Stir to combine all the ingredients, ensuring that the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
- Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, sea salt, and cracked pepper. Stir to evenly distribute the seasonings throughout the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and chopped baby spinach. The spinach will wilt quickly, adding a vibrant green color and nutritional boost to your dish.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. If desired, feel free to add more heavy cream for an even richer sauce.
- To finish, sprinkle with fresh basil before serving. This adds a lovely aroma and a hint of freshness that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.
- Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream for a dairy-free version.
- This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
