Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Grandma’s Quick One Pot Pasta. This comforting dish is perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal ingredients and one pot for easy cleanup. It’s hearty, flavorful, and takes just about 30 minutes to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your favorite type)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes, chopped)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt (to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (to taste)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Sauté the onion and garlic:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the liquids and seasonings:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and chicken or vegetable broth. Add the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Add the pasta:
- Add the uncooked pasta to the pot, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes (or according to the pasta’s package instructions), stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Finish the sauce:
- Once the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed, stir in the heavy cream or milk (if using) to make the sauce creamier. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes smooth.
- Serve:
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper as desired.
- Serve the pasta in bowls, topping with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for garnish.
Tips:
- Protein add-ins: You can add cooked chicken, sausage, or ground beef to the dish for added protein.
- Vegetable variations: Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Quick options: If you’re in a hurry, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or skip the cream for a lighter version.
This Grandma’s Quick One Pot Pasta is simple, hearty, and can be customized based on what you have in your pantry. It’s a perfect dish to satisfy hunger without spending too much time in the kitchen!