Easy One-Pot Tomato Pasta 🍅🧄🍝 Simple, Saucy, and Built for Busy Nights With Zero Fuss and Full Flavor

This is your pantry pasta hero — everything goes into one pot: dry pasta, tomatoes, garlic, and broth. As it all simmers together, the pasta releases starch to create a naturally thick, silky sauce.

It’s comforting, craveable, and endlessly riffable. No draining, no extra pans — just flavor, fast.

Ingredients (Serves 3–4)

For the base

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the pasta and sauce

• 12 oz spaghetti, linguine, or short pasta
• 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
• 3 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
• 1–2 tsp sugar or honey (optional, to balance acidity)
• Optional: splash of white wine or vinegar for brightness

To finish

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino
• 2 tbsp butter or drizzle of olive oil
• Fresh basil or parsley
• Optional: chili oil, lemon zest, or balsamic glaze

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium. Add garlic, red pepper flakes, and oregano. Sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the pot
Add dry pasta, crushed tomatoes, broth, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.

Step 3: Simmer and stir
Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking. Pasta should be tender and sauce thickened.

Step 4: Finish and taste
Remove lid and stir in butter and Parmesan. Add more broth or water if needed to loosen. Season with salt, pepper, and more herbs.

Step 5: Serve hot
Top with fresh basil, extra cheese, and a drizzle of oil or glaze if you like. Serve immediately.

Flavor Variations

• Add spinach or arugula at the end for greens
• Stir in olives, capers, or sun-dried tomatoes for tang
• Use vodka instead of broth for a spicy rosé version
• Add white beans or chickpeas for protein
• Toss in a spoonful of pesto or ricotta just before serving

Pro Tips

• Use a wide pot to let pasta cook evenly
• Stir often — this keeps pasta from clumping or burning
• Add cheese off-heat to avoid stringy sauce
• Use good canned tomatoes — they carry the sauce
• Want a richer finish? Add a splash of cream or swirl of mascarpone

Final Thoughts

Easy One-Pot Tomato Pasta is the weeknight savior that keeps things comforting, clean, and quick. It’s minimal ingredients, maximum payoff — no draining, no stress, and always open to riffing.

Sauté. Simmer. Swirl up the comfort. 🍅🧄🍝

🍝 Pasta Recipes Collection

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🥗 Pasta Salads & Light Fare

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