Print

Easy Delicious One-Pot Pasta Recipes for Students Perfect for Quick Meals

easy delicious one-pot pasta recipes for students - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick, easy, and comforting one-pot pasta recipe perfect for students needing a wholesome meal with minimal cleanup. Ready in under 30 minutes using simple pantry staples.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces dried pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (preferably San Marzano)
  • 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat for about 3 minutes until shimmering but not smoking.
  2. Add minced garlic and chopped onion; sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  3. Pour in canned diced tomatoes and stir well; cook for another 2 minutes to allow flavors to mingle.
  4. Add the pasta directly to the pan, pour in the broth, and stir to combine everything evenly.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover loosely and simmer, stirring every 5 minutes to prevent sticking, for 12-15 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
  6. About halfway through cooking, add fresh spinach to wilt.
  7. Once pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed, remove from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
  8. Give it a final stir and let it sit covered for 1-2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt into a creamy sauce.
  9. Serve warm, optionally topped with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil.

Notes

If pasta isn’t tender but liquid is gone, add a splash more broth or water and continue simmering. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. For vegan version, use vegetable broth and substitute Parmesan with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast. Gluten-free pasta can be used but adjust liquid and cooking time accordingly. Resting the pasta covered off heat helps the sauce become creamier.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot pasta, easy pasta recipe, student meals, quick dinner, simple pasta, one-pot meal, vegetarian pasta, quick meals

Find it online: https://gleefulfork.com/easy-delicious-one-pot-pasta-recipes-for-students-perfect-for-quick-meals/