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One Pan Pasta: No Draining Required

One Pan Pasta No Draining

This one pan pasta recipe cooks everything in a single skillet, eliminating the need for draining. The pasta absorbs the flavorful broth, creating a creamy sauce as it cooks.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth for vegetarian option
  • 8 oz spaghetti uncooked
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 cup baby spinach fresh
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated, for serving

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic, stirring until it turns golden and aromatic, about 1 minute. Avoid burning by keeping the heat moderate.
  • Place the halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet over medium heat. Allow them to cook for approximately 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Watch for the tomatoes to soften and release their juices, creating a fragrant aroma. Stir gently to prevent sticking and ensure they cook evenly without burning.
  • Pour the chicken broth into the pan and heat over medium-high until it begins to simmer gently. Add the uncooked spaghetti, ensuring it is fully submerged in the liquid. Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent it from clumping or sticking to the bottom of the pan as it cooks.
  • Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and dried basil over the mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure the spices are well incorporated, creating a uniform seasoning throughout. Continue stirring until the aroma of the basil becomes noticeable, and the spices are evenly distributed, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.
  • Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the skillet with a lid. Allow the mixture to cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The pasta should reach an al dente texture and absorb most of the liquid, with a slight sheen remaining on the surface.
  • Add fresh baby spinach to the skillet. Stir until the spinach wilts and integrates with the pasta, about 2 minutes. The spinach should retain a bright green color.
  • Test the spaghetti for doneness by tasting a strand. It should be tender but still have a slight bite. If the sauce appears too thick, incorporate a small amount of water to achieve the desired consistency. Ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce before serving.
  • Take the skillet off the heat and allow the pasta to sit undisturbed for about one minute. This resting period helps the sauce to thicken slightly, improving the texture and ensuring the spaghetti absorbs the flavors more effectively. Avoid stirring during this time to achieve the best results.
  • Once the pasta is cooked to your desired tenderness, immediately serve it while hot. Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt slightly from the heat of the pasta. This will create a smooth, creamy texture that enhances the overall dish. Enjoy promptly for the best experience.
  • Optional: Before serving, drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the pasta. This step adds a subtle sheen and enhances the overall texture, making the dish more visually appealing. The oil also contributes a gentle aroma, complementing the other ingredients. Ensure the oil is evenly distributed for the best effect.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Ensure the pasta is submerged in liquid to cook evenly and prevent sticking.