If you’re juggling a busy schedule but still want to enjoy a hearty meal, these 19 easy one-pot pasta recipes are just what you need. Each dish comes together quickly, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time doing what you love. Whether you’re in the mood for creamy, savory, or zesty, you’ll find a variety of options to satisfy your cravings any night of the week.
Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli
Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli is a delightful dish that brings together tender pieces of chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and vibrant broccoli. This one-pot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it combines flavors and nutrients in a simple way.
The image showcases a bowl filled with fettuccine pasta, coated in a luscious Alfredo sauce. Bright green broccoli florets add a pop of color and a fresh crunch, while pieces of chicken are nestled among the pasta. The sprinkle of parsley on top enhances the dish, making it look even more inviting.
To make this dish, you’ll need ingredients like fettuccine pasta, chicken breast, broccoli, heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. The steps are straightforward: cook the pasta, sauté the chicken, and mix in the broccoli and sauce. In about 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to serve.
This Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also offers comfort and satisfaction on a plate. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a classic dish while keeping your weeknight dinners simple.
One-Pot Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
This One-Pot Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes is an inviting dish that’s easy to whip up on busy weeknights. The vibrant green pesto and bright red tomatoes create a wonderful contrast, making the dish not just tasty but also visually appealing.
To make this recipe, you’ll need simple ingredients such as spaghetti, fresh basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, garlic, and a touch of olive oil. Start by cooking the pasta in a large pot with plenty of water until al dente. Then, add the pesto and cherry tomatoes, stirring gently to combine everything.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. You can enjoy it as is, or add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor. It’s a delightful meal that captures the essence of fresh ingredients without taking up too much of your time.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a delightful dish that comes together in one pot, making it perfect for those busy weeknights. The image captures a steaming bowl of pasta, elegantly twirled and topped with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The warm, inviting colors of the dish hint at its rich flavor, making it a comforting choice for dinner.
This recipe features simple ingredients like garlic, heavy cream, and, of course, Parmesan cheese, which meld together beautifully to create a creamy sauce. The gentle steam rising from the bowl suggests that it’s ready to be enjoyed. The rustic wooden table adds a cozy touch, inviting you to gather around and dig in.
To make this dish, you’ll need spaghetti or your favorite pasta, minced garlic, heavy cream, grated Parmesan, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Just cook the pasta in one pot, add the garlic, then stir in the cream and cheese until everything is well combined. Serve it hot, garnished with parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor!
Mushroom and Pea Orzo
This Mushroom and Pea Orzo is a cozy dish that shines on busy weeknights. The combination of tender orzo, earthy mushrooms, and sweet peas creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
To make this dish, you’ll need simple ingredients: orzo pasta, fresh mushrooms, peas, garlic, vegetable broth, and a sprinkle of cheese for topping. Start by sautéing the mushrooms and garlic until they’re golden and fragrant. Then, add the orzo and broth, letting everything simmer together until the pasta is perfectly cooked.
Once it’s ready, stir in the peas and finish with a sprinkle of cheese and fresh herbs. This recipe takes just one pot, making cleanup a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your meal stress-free.
One-Pot Tomato Basil Penne
If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful dish, this One-Pot Tomato Basil Penne is a fantastic choice. The image beautifully showcases a vibrant plate of penne pasta tossed with fresh cherry tomatoes and aromatic basil leaves. The bright colors make the dish look appealing and appetizing, perfect for a weeknight meal.
This recipe combines the classic flavors of tomato and basil in a quick and easy preparation. To make this dish, you’ll need penne pasta, ripe cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added richness. Just one pot is all you need, making cleanup a breeze.
Start by sautéing garlic in olive oil, then add the tomatoes and let them cook down. Once they burst with flavor, stir in the pasta and enough water to cook it all together. Finally, toss in fresh basil and a sprinkle of cheese just before serving. It’s a simple process, but the result is a comforting and delicious meal that you can whip up in no time.
Spicy Sausage and Broccoli Pasta
Spicy sausage and broccoli pasta is a quick dish that brings both flavor and nutrition to the table. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
The vibrant colors of broccoli and the hearty slices of sausage make this dish visually appealing. Tossed with perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a feast for the eyes and the stomach. It’s also easy to customize; you can adjust the spice level or add other vegetables you have on hand.
To make this dish, you’ll need ingredients like pasta, spicy sausage, fresh broccoli, garlic, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Start by cooking the pasta according to package instructions, then sauté the sausage and garlic in a pan. Add the broccoli toward the end to keep it crisp. Combine everything in one pot, and don’t forget to season!
In just a short amount of time, you have a delicious meal ready to serve. This recipe not only saves dishes but also brings everyone together for a cozy dinner. Enjoy it with a sprinkle of cheese or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Lemon Spinach Fettuccine
If you’re looking for a light and refreshing dish, Lemon Spinach Fettuccine is a fantastic choice. This one-pot recipe combines the bright flavor of lemon with the freshness of spinach, making it an enjoyable meal for any busy weeknight.
The image shows a beautifully plated serving of fettuccine. The pasta is coated in a light, zesty sauce and generously topped with fresh spinach leaves and a sprinkle of zest. The vibrant lemons in the background hint at the citrusy goodness that enhances the dish.
To make this delightful pasta, you’ll need fettuccine, fresh spinach, lemons, garlic, olive oil, and a touch of seasoning. Start by cooking the fettuccine in a pot. While it cooks, sauté garlic in olive oil and add the spinach until wilted. Once the pasta is ready, mix it all together, squeeze in some lemon juice, and serve topped with more zest and herbs.
This Lemon Spinach Fettuccine is not only simple to prepare but also a delicious way to enjoy pasta with a twist. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something quick but still packed with flavor.
Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta
This creamy tomato and spinach pasta is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to any busy weeknight. The vibrant colors in the image showcase the fresh ingredients, making it not only appetizing but also inviting. The combination of ripe cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach creates a beautiful contrast against the smooth pasta, topped with a dollop of creamy goodness.
To whip up this dish, you will need simple ingredients: pasta of your choice, cherry tomatoes, fresh spinach, cream, garlic, and a sprinkle of herbs. Start by cooking the pasta until al dente. In a separate pan, sauté garlic until fragrant, then add the cherry tomatoes until they burst. Stir in the cream and spinach, letting it wilt down before mixing in the pasta. Finish with a garnish of fresh basil for a touch of freshness.
This recipe is quick and requires minimal cleanup, making it an ideal choice for those busy evenings. It combines taste and ease, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without the fuss. Give this creamy tomato and spinach pasta a try, and you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time!
Shrimp Scampi Pasta
Shrimp scampi pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender shrimp with flavorful garlic and fresh herbs, all tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti. This one-pot recipe is not only quick to prepare but also brings a taste of the coast to your dinner table.
In the image, you can see a beautiful plate of shrimp scampi pasta, garnished with bright green parsley. The shrimp has a lovely pink hue, indicating they are cooked just right, while the pasta is coated in a light, garlicky sauce. This dish looks inviting and is sure to please anyone who loves seafood.
To make shrimp scampi pasta, you’ll need shrimp, spaghetti, garlic, butter, olive oil, lemon juice, and parsley. Start by cooking the spaghetti according to package instructions. In the same pot, sauté minced garlic in butter and olive oil, then add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink. Finally, toss in the cooked pasta, add lemon juice, and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of flavor.
This simple recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without the fuss of multiple pots and pans. With just a few ingredients and minimal cleanup, shrimp scampi pasta is a win for everyone!
One-Pot Beef Stroganoff Pasta
If you’re looking for a comforting and filling meal that doesn’t require a lot of effort, One-Pot Beef Stroganoff Pasta is a perfect choice. The image shows a delicious dish filled with tender beef, mushrooms, and spiral pasta all cooked together in one pot. This not only makes for easy cleanup but also allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
This dish brings together simple ingredients like beef, pasta, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, making it a cozy meal for any weeknight. To make it, you’ll need 1 pound of beef, 8 ounces of pasta, 2 cups of sliced mushrooms, and some broth. A splash of cream at the end creates that rich stroganoff texture.
Start by browning the beef and adding the mushrooms until they’re soft. Then, mix in your pasta and broth, bringing everything to a simmer. Let it cook until the pasta is tender, and finish off with cream and seasonings. This whole process takes around 30 minutes, making it an easy option for those busy nights.
Buffalo Chicken Pasta
If you’re looking for a twist on traditional pasta, Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a fun and flavorful option. This dish combines the comfort of pasta with the spicy kick of Buffalo sauce, making it a favorite for those busy weeknights.
In the image, you can see a bowl of creamy, orange-hued pasta, generously garnished with green onions and crumbled cheese. The vibrant colors are not just appealing; they invite you to dig in and enjoy a hearty meal.
To make this dish, you’ll need ingredients like pasta, cooked chicken, Buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and a sprinkle of cheese on top. Start by cooking your pasta until al dente. In the same pot, combine the chicken and Buffalo sauce, then mix in the cream cheese until everything is creamy and well-coated. Finally, serve with a sprinkle of green onions for that extra pop of flavor.
This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also a great way to satisfy your cravings for something zesty and comforting. Perfect for a weekday dinner, Buffalo Chicken Pasta is sure to become a go-to recipe!
Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
Roasted Red Pepper Pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with simplicity. This recipe shines during busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. The image shows a bowl of beautifully twirled spaghetti coated in a vibrant sauce made from roasted red peppers. Chunks of red pepper add a pop of color and flavor, while fresh basil leaves sprinkle a touch of freshness on top.
To make this dish, you’ll need a handful of ingredients: spaghetti, roasted red peppers, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh basil. Start by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Meanwhile, blend roasted red peppers with garlic and olive oil until smooth.
Once the pasta is cooked, toss it with the roasted red pepper sauce, seasoning it with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch. This one-pot meal is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. It’s a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation.
Vegetable Primavera Pasta
Vegetable Primavera Pasta is a delightful way to enjoy fresh veggies in a simple, hearty meal. This dish combines pasta with a colorful array of vegetables, making it both nutritious and satisfying. The image showcases a vibrant bowl of pasta, featuring bright cherry tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil that adds a touch of richness.
The ingredients for this recipe are straightforward and can be easily adjusted based on what you have at home. You will need your choice of pasta, a mix of seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs like basil and parsley for garnish.
To make this dish, start by cooking the pasta according to package instructions. While the pasta cooks, sauté garlic in olive oil, then add in your vegetables and cook until tender. Toss the drained pasta with the veggies, season with salt and pepper, and finish with fresh herbs. It’s that easy!
This one-pot pasta recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick but fulfilling. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover veggies in your fridge. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main meal, Vegetable Primavera Pasta is sure to bring a burst of flavor to your dinner table.
Smoky Bacon and Tomato Pasta
This Smoky Bacon and Tomato Pasta is the kind of dish that makes weeknights a breeze. Just imagine a big pot filled with twirly pasta, crispy bits of bacon, and a rich tomato sauce. It’s colorful and inviting, just waiting to be devoured.
The ingredients are simple yet satisfying. You’ll need pasta, bacon, tomatoes, onion, garlic, and a few herbs to bring it all together. The smoky bacon adds a delicious flavor that pairs perfectly with the tangy tomatoes. It’s the kind of meal that feels comforting and indulgent without being complicated to prepare.
To make this dish, start by cooking the bacon until it’s nice and crispy. Remove it from the pot and sauté some onions and garlic in the leftover bacon fat. Then, add diced tomatoes and your pasta of choice along with water or broth. Let it simmer until the pasta is cooked. Crumble the bacon back in, and finish with herbs for that fresh touch. This one-pot wonder not only saves you time but also makes cleanup a cinch.
So, if you’re in need of a quick and tasty dinner idea, this Smoky Bacon and Tomato Pasta is a solid choice. It’s comforting, filling, and perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without a lot of fuss.
Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Pasta
This creamy mushroom and spinach pasta is a simple dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With just one pot, you can whip up a comforting meal that’s packed with flavor. The combination of mushrooms, spinach, and creamy sauce makes each bite satisfying and delicious.
The image showcases a bowl of delicious spaghetti coated in a rich, creamy sauce. Tender mushrooms are scattered throughout, along with fresh spinach. Topped with toasted pine nuts and a sprinkle of cheese, it looks both inviting and hearty—ideal for a dinner that feels special without the fuss.
To make this dish, you’ll need spaghetti, fresh mushrooms, spinach, garlic, heavy cream, vegetable broth, and your choice of cheese. Start by sautéing the mushrooms and garlic in a pot until they’re golden. Add in the vegetable broth and bring it to a simmer before adding the spaghetti. Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the cream and spinach until the spinach wilts. Finish with a sprinkle of cheese and pine nuts for a crunchy texture.
Zucchini Noodles with Marinara
If you’re looking for a fun twist on traditional pasta, zucchini noodles with marinara is the way to go. This dish brings together the fresh taste of zucchini and a rich, savory marinara sauce that complements it perfectly. You get the satisfaction of pasta while sneaking in some extra veggies!
To make this dish, you’ll need spiralized zucchini, your favorite marinara sauce, and some grated cheese for topping. Start by sautéing the zucchini noodles in a pan until they’re tender. This usually takes just a few minutes. Then, add the marinara sauce and let it warm up, allowing the flavors to blend together.
Once everything is heated through, serve it in a bowl and sprinkle some cheese on top. A fresh basil leaf or two can add a nice touch as well. This recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy yet satisfying.
One-Pot Italian Sausage Pasta
This One-Pot Italian Sausage Pasta is a delightful dish perfect for those busy weeknights. The image showcases a bowl filled with perfectly cooked pasta, vibrant red bell peppers, and savory slices of Italian sausage. The colorful ingredients are topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, adding a burst of flavor and freshness to the meal.
To make this simple dish, start with ingredients like spaghetti, Italian sausage, bell peppers, diced tomatoes, garlic, and vegetable broth. Cook everything together in one pot to let the flavors blend beautifully. Just sauté the sausage and vegetables, add the pasta and broth, and let it simmer. In about 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to enjoy!
This recipe is not just easy but also satisfying, making it a go-to for any weeknight. The combination of sausage and pasta, along with the bright bell peppers, makes every bite enjoyable. Plus, you’ll have fewer dishes to wash!
Sundried Tomato and Spinach Pasta
This Sundried Tomato and Spinach Pasta is a delightful dish that perfectly balances flavors and freshness. The vibrant colors of the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach make it not just tasty, but also visually appealing. You’ll find that this one-pot meal is ideal for busy weeknights, allowing you to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
To prepare this dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients: pasta of your choice, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, garlic, olive oil, and some grated cheese for topping. Start by cooking the pasta according to package instructions. In the same pot, sauté garlic in olive oil, then add the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach until they’re just wilted. Combine everything together, and sprinkle with cheese.
This pasta dish highlights how easy it can be to eat well without a lot of fuss. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a family, it’s a meal everyone will enjoy. Plus, you can easily customize it by adding other ingredients like chicken or mushrooms for extra protein and flavor.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta dish is a delightful option for busy weeknights. The combination of tender shrimp and perfectly cooked pasta creates a satisfying meal that’s easy to whip up. Just looking at the image makes you want to dig in!
The dish features plump shrimp tossed in a garlic butter sauce, which adds a rich flavor to every bite. The bright lemon slices and fresh parsley not only enhance the look but also add a refreshing touch. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet can be prepared in a snap.
To make this dish, you’ll need ingredients like linguine or spaghetti, shrimp, garlic, butter, lemon, and parsley. Start by cooking the pasta according to package instructions. While that’s happening, sauté garlic in butter, then add the shrimp and cook until they’re pink. Toss everything together with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of parsley.
This easy recipe is perfect for those hectic evenings when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze!