If your dream weeknight meal is equal parts effortless and flavor-packed, this One Pan Pasta is here to answer your cravings—and rescue your busiest evenings. Imagine the magic: twirls of spaghetti swirling with juicy cherry tomatoes, tender spinach, fresh basil, a kiss of garlic, and everything brought together in a single skillet with a silky, savory sauce that practically makes itself. It’s Italian-inspired comfort, a vibrant jumble of irresistible colors and tastes, with just one pan to clean in the end. No fuss, plenty of joy, and a dish that’ll absolutely make it into your regular rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for One Pan Pasta couldn’t be more of a breeze, yet every element is crucial for creating flavor fireworks. From the sweetness of cherry tomatoes to the peppery lift of fresh basil, each addition lends something unique—giving you a pasta that feels both simple and special.
- Spaghetti (12 oz): The star of the show—classic pasta that soaks up every bit of broth and flavor.
- Cherry Tomatoes (1 pint, halved): Bursting with sweetness and color, these add juicy freshness in every bite.
- Small Onion (thinly sliced): Adds wonderful depth and just a hint of caramelized sweetness.
- Garlic (4 cloves, sliced): Infuses the whole pan with rich, aromatic character—slice for mellower flavor.
- Baby Spinach (2 cups): Packs in nutrients and that tender, leafy green goodness.
- Fresh Basil Leaves (1/4 cup): The essential Italian herb—tear the leaves gently to maximize their aroma.
- Vegetable or Chicken Broth (4 cups): Builds the savory backbone of the sauce—choose a broth you love!
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Gives silkiness and a lovely hint of fruitiness to everything in the pan.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Brings out all the best in every ingredient—don’t skip!
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds warmth and subtle bite.
- Red Pepper Flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For a gentle kick, if you like a little heat.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, optional): The grand finale, for a creamy, salty depth—add as much or as little as you like!
How to Make One Pan Pasta
Step 1: Layer and Combine Everything in Your Pan
Start by breaking out your largest, deepest skillet or sauté pan—this will be home for the One Pan Pasta magic. Add the spaghetti (it’s fine if you have to nudge or snap a few strands to fit), cherry tomatoes, sliced onion, garlic, spinach, and fresh basil right into the pan. Pour over the broth, then drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes evenly on top. This clever setup ensures every single ingredient mingles from the very start, layering flavor with hardly any work.
Step 2: Bring It All to a Boil
With everything nestled together, turn the heat up to high and bring the mixture to a lively boil. This is when the vegetables begin to soften and release their juices—and the pasta starts to soak up all those fabulous flavors. Watch the pan and get ready for the wonderful aroma that’ll begin wafting through your kitchen!
Step 3: Simmer and Stir
Once you’ve hit that rolling boil, reduce the heat to medium. Let your One Pan Pasta simmer uncovered, stirring often with tongs or a big spoon. This keeps the pasta from sticking, helps everything cook evenly, and ensures the sauce thickens just right. After 9 to 11 minutes, check for al dente pasta and make sure most of the liquid is beautifully absorbed—it should look glossy, not soupy.
Step 4: Stir in Parmesan and Finish
When your pasta reaches that perfect texture and just a little sauce remains, take the pan off the heat. If you’re all-in for cheese, stir in your grated Parmesan now for a creamy, rich finish. The residual warmth will melt it right in, turning everything into a tangle of cheesy, herby pasta strands.
Step 5: Serve and Savor
Spoon the pasta into warm bowls straight from the pan, garnish with extra basil or an extra hit of Parmesan. Don’t wait—One Pan Pasta shines brightest when enjoyed immediately, while all those wonderful flavors are at their peak.
How to Serve One Pan Pasta

Garnishes
A generous flourish of freshly-shaved Parmesan, torn basil leaves, or even a crack of fresh black pepper can make each bowl of One Pan Pasta feel restaurant-worthy. If you’re feeling adventurous, a tiny drizzle of fruity olive oil or a sprinkle of lemon zest adds a bright, finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This dish leaps onto your table ready to star solo, but rounded out with a crisp Caesar salad or simple mixed greens, it truly sings. A hunk of crusty bread for swiping up that glossy sauce doesn’t hurt, either! Roasted vegetables or a light antipasto platter also pair beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party twist, serve portions in pre-warmed shallow bowls and offer a toppings bar: extra cheese, pepper flakes, or even chopped sun-dried tomatoes. You can also nestle grilled chicken or shrimp on top for an extra protein punch—or stuff everything into grilled peppers for a fun, handheld meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve managed to save any One Pan Pasta, let it cool before transferring to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to three days, making it perfect for next-day lunches or an even speedier dinner reboot.
Freezing
While this pasta is best fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Be sure to cool completely and scoop into freezer-safe containers or bags (squeezing out extra air). Freeze for up to one month. Just note—the texture of the spinach may get a little softer after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash or two of broth or water to loosen the sauce and keep every bite tender. For microwave reheating, cover lightly and use short bursts, stirring in between so nothing gets gummy. Add fresh cheese or herbs to brighten things up again!
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While spaghetti gives the signature feel for One Pan Pasta, linguine, fettuccine, or even short cuts like penne can work wonderfully. Just adjust the cooking time as needed and keep an eye on liquid absorption.
How can I make One Pan Pasta gluten-free?
Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free spaghetti. You might need to shave a minute or two off the simmer time and add a splash more broth, since gluten-free pasta often absorbs liquid differently.
Is it possible to make this vegan?
Definitely! Use vegetable broth and leave out the Parmesan, or sub in a plant-based cheese or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast. The rest of the ingredients for One Pan Pasta are naturally vegan-friendly.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes! Stir cooked chicken, shrimp, or beans into the pasta during the last few minutes of simmering, or simply serve on the side. This is a great way to bulk up One Pan Pasta and make it even heartier.
What if I don’t have fresh basil?
No worries—if you’re out of fresh basil, try a pinch of dried basil or Italian seasoning added in with the broth. Just remember dried herbs are more intense, so use about one-third the amount.
Final Thoughts
One Pan Pasta is a go-to that never lets me down—speedy, soul-warming, and endlessly customizable. I truly hope it brings as much ease and happiness to your table as it has to mine. Give it a try and see just how joyful (and delicious!) dinnertime can be with only one pan to wash.
Print
One Pan Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This One Pan Pasta recipe is a quick and easy vegetarian meal that comes together in just 25 minutes. With simple ingredients like spaghetti, cherry tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan cheese cooked in a flavorful broth, this dish is a perfect go-to for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Spaghetti:
- 12 oz
Cherry Tomatoes (halved):
- 1 pint
Onion (thinly sliced):
- 1 small
Garlic (sliced):
- 4 cloves
Baby Spinach:
- 2 cups
Fresh Basil Leaves:
- 1/4 cup
Vegetable or Chicken Broth:
- 4 cups
Olive Oil:
- 2 tablespoons
Salt:
- 1/2 teaspoon
Black Pepper:
- 1/4 teaspoon
Red Pepper Flakes (optional):
- 1/4 teaspoon
Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional):
- 1/2 cup
Instructions
- In a large deep skillet or sauté pan, combine the spaghetti, cherry tomatoes, onion, garlic, spinach, basil, and broth.
- Bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium and cook uncovered for about 9–11 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to help the pasta absorb the liquid.
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese if desired.
Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Continue cooking until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, leaving a light sauce.
Serve immediately with extra basil or cheese on top.
Notes
- You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or white beans for extra protein.
- Swap spinach for kale or arugula depending on what you have on hand.
- Use gluten-free pasta if needed, and adjust cooking time slightly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 10mg