One Pan Pasta Quick

One pan pasta is a lifesaver for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying, wholesome meal without tons of cleanup. Putting everything in one pot means flavors meld beautifully while you focus on other things. Plus, it’s a flexible recipe that welcomes whatever veggies you have on hand, making it easy to customize and keep interesting.

I first made this on a hectic weeknight when I had almost nothing prepped and it saved dinner completely. Now it’s a go-to whenever I want something quick but flavorful enough to feel special.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Eight ounces linguine: the pasta shape holds sauce well; choose good quality durum wheat pasta for best texture
• One pint cherry tomatoes halved: these add natural sweetness and burst of juiciness
• Two ounces baby spinach: bringing color and subtle earthiness; look for fresh, vibrant leaves
• One small onion finely sliced: builds a savory base; yellow or sweet onions work best
• Three garlic cloves finely sliced: essential for fragrant depth; fresh garlic is key
• One handful fresh basil leaves chopped roughly: adds bright herbal notes and freshness
• Two tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: use a fruity, high-quality olive oil for richness
• Half teaspoon crushed red pepper: for a gentle kick; adjust to taste
• Half teaspoon salt: balances and enhances all the flavors
• Two ounces parmesan cheese grated, optional: adds creaminess and umami; use a good quality Parmesan Reggiano
• Four cups boiling water: to cook the pasta and create the sauce in one step

How to Make It

Sauté the Aromatics and Combine Ingredients:

In a large deep pan arrange linguine, cherry tomatoes, spinach, sliced onions, garlic, and basil. Drizzle olive oil on top and sprinkle crushed red pepper and salt evenly.

Bring It to a Boil and Cook the Pasta:

Pour boiling water into the pan making sure pasta is mostly submerged. Place the pan on medium heat and bring to a gentle boil. Cook uncovered for eight to ten minutes stirring occasionally with tongs so pasta cooks evenly and veggies soften.

Reduce to a Saucy Consistency:

Continue cooking until most of the water has evaporated leaving a beautiful light sauce that clings to the pasta and vegetables. This will thicken the cooking liquid naturally.

Finish and Serve:

Remove the pan from heat and stir in grated parmesan and more fresh basil if you like. Serve immediately while still warm and enjoy the combination of tender pasta, sweet tomatoes, and fresh herbs.

One evening my kids surprised me by asking to help make this and they ended up trading off stirring the pasta and picking basil leaves. It became a fun little ritual that made dinner even more special.

Flavor Boosters

Parmesan cheese and fresh basil elevate the dish with creaminess and bright herbal notes for a deliciously balanced flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta alongside a crisp green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. It also pairs nicely with grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp if you want to add protein.

Creative Twists

Use seasonal vegetables such as asparagus or zucchini in spring and summer for a vibrant twist. Swap spinach for kale or chard in cooler months. Cherry tomatoes bring summer sweetness but sun-dried tomatoes can add depth in off-season versions.

This recipe is perfect for busy nights and can be easily adapted with whatever ingredients you have. Keep stirring and don’t forget the fresh basil for the best flavor.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta for this dish?

Yes, gluten-free pasta works perfectly and can easily replace traditional linguine without changing the cooking method.

→ How do I make the sauce creamier?

Adding a splash of milk or a creamy substitute during cooking can create a richer sauce texture while maintaining the one pan simplicity.

→ Can I swap the vegetables in this dish?

Absolutely, you can replace or add any preferred vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to suit your taste.

→ What kind of cheese is best for finishing this pasta?

Parmesan is ideal for a salty, cheesy finish, but vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast can be used for dairy-free alternatives.

→ How long should I cook the pasta in the pan?

Cook the pasta for 8-10 minutes in the pan until the liquid reduces and the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.