Description
This easy one pot pasta dinner brings together tender noodles, fresh veggies, and rich tomato sauce all in a single pot. It’s the perfect cozy, quick meal for busy nights with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
8 ounces dry pasta (penne, rotini, shells, or macaroni)
8 ounces grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
2 garlic cloves, minced
½ yellow onion, thinly sliced
1 small zucchini, chopped and quartered
3 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
½ teaspoon kosher salt
1¼ cups tomato-based pasta sauce
2½ cups water
3 ounces fresh spinach
Instructions
1. Place the dry pasta into a large pot or deep-sided pan.
2. Add the halved tomatoes, minced garlic, sliced onion, chopped zucchini, mushrooms, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, pasta sauce, and water. Stir well to combine.
3. Bring everything to a boil over high heat.
4. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low. Cook uncovered for 10–14 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes to prevent sticking. Adjust cooking time depending on the pasta used.
5. Once pasta is cooked to your liking, turn off the heat and fold in the fresh spinach. Stir until wilted.
6. Serve immediately. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Notes
Use gluten-free pasta if needed. Add more water as necessary depending on pasta type. To add protein, stir in canned beans or cooked sausage during cooking.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: One-Pot & Easy Meals
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American