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Easy One-Pot Pasta Recipe That Never Sticks Perfectly Every Time

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A quick and easy one-pot pasta recipe that cooks pasta evenly in a flavorful sauce without sticking, perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces dry spaghetti or linguine
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Handful fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet or pot. Add minced garlic and chopped onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant, stirring occasionally.
  2. Add 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using), stirring to combine. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juices. Let simmer gently for 3 minutes.
  3. Add 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth to the pot. Then add dry pasta, spreading it out evenly and pushing it down gently to submerge in the liquid.
  4. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. Stir frequently every 2-3 minutes to prevent sticking. Cook for 12-15 minutes until pasta is al dente.
  5. Taste test pasta at around 12 minutes. If not done and liquid remains, continue simmering and stirring for 2-3 more minutes.
  6. Remove from heat. Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Sprinkle fresh chopped basil or parsley on top.
  7. Serve immediately with extra cheese and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Notes

Stir frequently to prevent pasta from sticking. Use a wide pan to cook pasta evenly. Add a splash of broth or water if sauce thickens too much before pasta is tender. For dairy-free, omit Parmesan or use a substitute. Gluten-free pasta can be used but adjust broth as needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot pasta, easy pasta recipe, quick dinner, no-stick pasta, creamy pasta, weeknight meal