One-pot pasta recipes have become increasingly popular in recent years for good reason. They’re easy to make, require minimal cleanup, and are versatile enough to accommodate a wide range of ingredients and flavors. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick and healthy meal ideas or a college student on a budget, one-pot pasta recipes are a great option to consider.
In this post, we’ll explore five easy and delicious one-pot pasta recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings and make mealtime a breeze. From creamy Alfredo to spicy arrabbiata, these recipes offer a little something for everyone.
1. Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fettuccine pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 lb chicken breast, diced
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and garlic, season with salt and pepper, and cook until chicken is browned on all sides.
2. Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and pasta to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cover. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked and sauce has thickened.
3. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
2. Spicy Sausage Arrabbiata Pasta
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pasta of your choice
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup tomato paste
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic, and cook until vegetables are softened.
2. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Add the pasta and enough water to cover, stirring to combine.
3. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked and sauce has thickened.
4. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
3. Cheesy Broccoli Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
– 1 lb macaroni pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups milk
– 1 lb broccoli florets
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the macaroni, chicken broth, and milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Add the broccoli florets and continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until pasta is cooked and broccoli is tender.
3. Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. For an extra crunchy topping, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and broil in the oven for a few minutes until golden brown.
4. Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spaghetti
– 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– Zest and juice of 1 lemon
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup chopped parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and shrimp, cooking until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
3. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, chicken broth, parsley, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat.
4. Serve topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
Ingredients:
– 1 lb penne pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
3. Add the cooked pasta, basil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat and heat through.
4. Serve topped with additional grated Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
In conclusion, one-pot pasta recipes are a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. Whether you’re in the mood for creamy Alfredo, spicy arrabbiata, or cheesy mac and cheese, these recipes offer something for everyone. Give them a try and see for yourself just how tasty and convenient one-pot pasta can be.
