12 Easy One-Pot Pasta Dinner Recipes You’ll Love

Looking to simplify dinner prep? One pot pasta dinners are your answer! These quick and easy recipes let you whip up a delicious meal without the hassle of multiple pans and complicated steps. Just toss everything into one pot, let it simmer, and you’ll have a satisfying dish ready in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you just don’t feel like doing dishes!

One-Pot Mushroom Stroganoff

This One-Pot Mushroom Stroganoff is a cozy dish that feels indulgent yet is incredibly easy to make. The creamy sauce, filled with savory mushrooms and tender pasta, creates a delightful meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.

With just one pot to clean, this recipe is not only comforting but also hassle-free. The rich flavors meld beautifully, making each bite satisfying and delicious. Let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions for this tasty dish!

Ingredients

8 ounces pasta (fettuccine or your choice)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
16 ounces mushrooms, sliced (cremini and button work well)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream or plant-based cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Add sliced mushrooms, thyme, and paprika. Sauté until mushrooms are tender and browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Add the pasta, then reduce heat and simmer until pasta is cooked, about 10 minutes.
Once the pasta is done, stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to thicken.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Lemon Basil Pesto Linguine

Lemon Basil Pesto Linguine is a bright and flavorful dish that’s as simple to prepare as it is delicious. The combination of fresh basil, zesty lemon, and hearty pasta creates a delightful meal that feels both refreshing and satisfying. This one-pot wonder is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or when you’re looking to impress without too much fuss.

The vibrant green pesto clings beautifully to the linguine, while the lemon adds a wonderful brightness that elevates the entire dish. With minimal prep and cleanup, you’ll find this recipe a breeze to make. It’s a go-to for pasta lovers who enjoy a burst of flavor in every bite!

Ingredients

8 ounces linguine
2 cups fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup pine nuts
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup olive oil
2 cloves garlic
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Make the Pesto: In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon juice, and zest. Pulse until finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly add olive oil until the mixture is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine: In the same pot used for the pasta, return the drained linguine. Add the pesto and reserved pasta water, stirring until the pasta is well coated and everything is heated through.
Serve: Transfer the linguine to serving bowls and garnish with additional basil leaves and lemon slices if desired. Enjoy your delicious Lemon Basil Pesto Linguine!

Vegetable Primavera Penne

This Vegetable Primavera Penne is a delightful and colorful dish that brings a taste of spring to your dinner table. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal vegetables combined with hearty pasta, all cooked in one pot for easy cleanup. The vibrant mix of ingredients not only looks inviting but also offers a medley of flavors that are fresh and satisfying.

With its simple preparation, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. You can customize the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have in your fridge. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike!

Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 zucchini, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
Add the bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
Stir in the cherry tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Add the penne pasta and 4 cups of water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 10-12 minutes until the pasta is cooked and the water is mostly absorbed.
Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese if using. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Seafood Linguine with Garlic Butter

A plate of seafood linguine with shrimp and mussels garnished with herbs.

Seafood linguine with garlic butter is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the ocean right to your table. The combination of tender linguine pasta with juicy shrimp and mussels, all tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, creates a dish that is both comforting and flavorful. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

This dish is not only delicious but also quick to make. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a meal that feels indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen. The garlic butter sauce adds a punch of flavor that perfectly complements the seafood, while fresh herbs elevate the dish even further.

Ingredients

8 oz linguine pasta
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lb mussels, cleaned
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup white wine (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Seafood: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp and mussels, cooking until the shrimp is pink and the mussels have opened.
Add Wine and Season: If using white wine, pour it into the skillet and let it simmer for a couple of minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated in the garlic butter sauce.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, and enjoy your delicious seafood linguine!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese with tender pasta, creating a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something quick yet delicious.

The creamy sauce envelops each strand of pasta, offering a savory experience that pairs beautifully with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. You can whip this up in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze, which is always a plus when you’re short on time!

Ingredients

12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Tomato and Zucchini Pasta

Tomato and Zucchini Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together fresh flavors and simple ingredients in one easy cooking pot. This recipe is not only satisfying but also highlights the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes and the mild crunch of zucchini, making it a perfect option for a quick dinner.

With minimal prep time and just a few steps to follow, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious meal without a lot of fuss. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while keeping dinner light and refreshing!

Ingredients

8 ounces spaghetti or your favorite pasta
2 medium zucchini, spiralized or sliced thin
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the zucchini and cherry tomatoes, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender.
Combine: Add the cooked pasta back into the pot with the vegetables. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Sausage and Spinach Orzo

Sausage and Spinach Orzo is a deliciously simple one-pot dinner that combines savory sausage, fresh spinach, and tender orzo pasta for a comforting meal. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a hearty dish that’s both satisfying and quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

This recipe highlights the natural flavors of the ingredients, with the sausage providing a rich, smoky taste complemented by the lightness of the spinach. It’s a straightforward dish that you can whip up in no time, and it’s sure to please your family or guests.

Ingredients

1 pound Italian sausage, sliced
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups chicken broth
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the orzo and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender.
Mix in the spinach and cherry tomatoes, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
Season with salt and pepper, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired before serving.

Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Rotini

A creamy rotini pasta dish with spinach and ricotta, garnished with pine nuts.

Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Rotini is a delightful dish that pairs the flavors of fresh spinach with rich ricotta cheese, all mingling together in a single pot. This recipe is not only simple to whip up, but it also brings a comforting taste that is sure to please the whole family.

The rotini pasta twirls around each bite, making every mouthful a creamy and satisfying experience. Plus, it’s a breeze to make, requiring minimal prep and cleanup, which is always a win in the kitchen!

Ingredients

12 ounces rotini pasta
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Spinach: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked rotini to the pot and add the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix everything together until well combined and creamy.
Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with toasted pine nuts for an extra crunch. Enjoy your creamy, delicious pasta dish!

Spicy Arrabbiata Penne

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal, spicy Arrabbiata penne is the way to go. This dish is all about bold flavors, combining the heat of red pepper flakes with the rich taste of tomatoes. It’s a fantastic option for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet exciting.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You’ll have everything cooked in one pot, making clean-up a breeze. Just imagine twirling that perfectly al dente pasta around your fork, enveloped in that spicy, garlicky sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

12 ounces penne pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water and then drain the rest.
Sauté the Garlic: In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Combine: Add the cooked penne back into the pot, mixing everything thoroughly. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water as needed.
Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your spicy Arrabbiata penne!

Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

A bowl of pasta with chicken and broccoli garnished with parsley.

Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy pesto, all tossed together for a satisfying meal. The fresh flavors of the basil pesto complement the grilled chicken perfectly, making this dish not only tasty but also easy to prepare.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it all cooks in one pot. You’ll enjoy a hearty meal without the hassle of multiple dishes to clean up. Ideal for families, this pasta dish is both nutritious and delicious!

Ingredients

12 oz rotini pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
1 lb chicken breast, grilled and sliced
1/2 cup basil pesto
1 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken: In the same pot, add the grilled chicken and chicken broth. Heat on low until warmed through.
Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta and broccoli back into the pot. Stir in the basil pesto and mix until everything is well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Transfer to serving bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley before enjoying.

One-Pot Mediterranean Pasta

This One-Pot Mediterranean Pasta is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. It combines colorful ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and fresh herbs, creating a vibrant and tasty meal that’s sure to please.

Not only is this pasta dish simple to make, but it also requires minimal cleanup since everything is cooked in one pot. The flavors meld beautifully as the pasta absorbs the broth, creating a rich, satisfying dish without all the fuss.

Ingredients

12 ounces rotini pasta
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup black olives, sliced
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, combine the rotini pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, black olives, vegetable broth, minced garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using.
Cook the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and the liquid has mostly absorbed.
Add Feta: Remove the pot from the heat and gently stir in the crumbled feta cheese until it’s evenly distributed.
Garnish and Serve: Serve the pasta warm, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for an extra pop of flavor.

Beef Stroganoff Fettuccine

Beef Stroganoff Fettuccine is a delicious twist on the classic dish. This one-pot recipe combines tender strips of beef with savory mushrooms and a creamy sauce, all tossed with fettuccine pasta for a comforting meal. It’s simple to make, allowing you to enjoy rich flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.

The creamy texture and umami notes from the beef and mushrooms create a satisfying experience for your taste buds. Plus, since it’s made in just one pot, cleanup is a breeze, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Ingredients

8 ounces fettuccine
1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 cup sour cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sear the Beef: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add onion and mushrooms. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
Make the Sauce: Pour in the beef broth and add Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat. Stir in the sour cream until combined.
Combine: Return the beef to the pot, along with the cooked fettuccine. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your hearty Beef Stroganoff Fettuccine!