One Pot Pasta Tomato Basil Spaghetti Recipe

If your weeknights are anything like mine—busy, hungry, and in serious need of a meal that satisfies both cravings and time constraints—this One Pot Pasta Tomato Basil Spaghetti is about to become your new best friend. Imagine slurpy noodles coated in a bright, tangy tomato sauce, fragrant with garlic, fresh basil, and the zesty pop of lemon, all topped with nutty Parmesan. The best part? Everything comes together in just one pot, with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a comforting dish to curl up with, this One Pot Pasta Tomato Basil Spaghetti makes dinnertime easy, delicious, and cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe has a purpose, delivering layers of flavor, texture, and color to the final dish. This is proof that a handful of well-chosen staples can transform into something extraordinary—so let’s break down what you’ll need and why each shines.

• Chicken stock: This infuses the spaghetti with savory depth and ensures the noodles absorb maximum flavor as they cook.
• Linguine: A perfect pasta shape for soaking up the luscious sauce—feel free to swap with spaghetti if you prefer.
• Onion: Sliced thin, it melts into the sauce, lending sweet, subtle body to every forkful.
• Fire roasted tomatoes: Not draining them means all their smoky sweetness and juices form the backbone of the sauce.
• Fresh basil: Its aromatic, peppery brightness is the heart of this dish—don’t skimp on it!
• Garlic: Sliced thin, its mellow sharpness infuses the broth and makes everything taste more Italian.
• Lemon juice and zest: A double-hit of citrus keeps things light and zippy, balancing the richness of the pasta.
• Olive oil: Helps the noodles release and becomes part of the silky, glossy sauce.
• Salt: Essential for seasoning both the pasta water and the final dish.
• Pepper: Adds gentle heat and complexity.
• Shredded Parmesan: Savory and nutty, it melts right in for a creamy finish.
• Fresh basil (for garnish): A handful over the top makes the dish look and taste unbelievably fresh.

How to Make One Pot Pasta Tomato Basil Spaghetti

Step 1: Layer Your Ingredients in the Pot

Start by grabbing your largest skillet or a wide, deep saucepan. Place the linguine into the pot, breaking it in half if needed so it fits flatly. Add the thinly sliced onion, fire roasted tomatoes (juices and all), roughly chopped basil, and sliced garlic. Sprinkle over the lemon zest, then squeeze in all the juice from your lemon—this will ensure the entire One Pot Pasta Tomato Basil Spaghetti is bright and lively.

Step 2: Season and Drizzle

Drizzle the olive oil over the top, making sure to coat as many surfaces as possible. Sprinkle on the salt and pepper, distributing them evenly. This step not only seasons the pasta, but helps prevent sticking and adds a silky texture to the finished sauce.

Step 3: Add Stock and Bring to a Boil

Pour the chicken stock over everything in the pot, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged (don’t worry if a few tips poke out—they’ll soften as you stir). Place the pot over high heat, and bring it to a rolling boil uncovered. The stock will immediately start infusing the pasta with tons of savory flavor.

Step 4: Boil and Stir Frequently

Once boiling, use a set of tongs or a wooden spoon to gently separate the noodles and stir often—about every minute or so. Let the mixture boil vigorously for 8 to 10 minutes. You’re looking for the pasta to become perfectly al dente and the liquid to reduce into a luscious, slightly loose sauce. Don’t step away! The constant stirring is the secret for tangle-free, glossy noodles.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan

As soon as the pasta is cooked and the liquid has mostly absorbed or thickened, remove the pot from heat. Immediately stir in the shredded Parmesan. The cheese will melt, enriching the sauce and making each strand of spaghetti creamy and dreamy. If you like a thicker sauce, let the One Pot Pasta Tomato Basil Spaghetti sit for 5 minutes; the residual heat will work magic.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer your gorgeous creation to a large serving bowl or dish it up straight from the pot. Top generously with fresh chopped basil. This not only adds a pop of color, but makes each bite taste garden-fresh and irresistibly aromatic.

How to Serve One Pot Pasta Tomato Basil Spaghetti

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, scatter more chopped fresh basil or a few whole leaves over each serving. Extra Parmesan or a light drizzle of good olive oil brings added richness, and, if you like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes is divine. These touches take your One Pot Pasta Tomato Basil Spaghetti from everyday to exceptional.

Side Dishes

This One Pot Pasta Tomato Basil Spaghetti is a true star on its own, but it plays well with others. Serve it with simple garlic bread or a green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette to round out the meal. Roasted vegetables—like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms—make a savory, colorful companion.

Creative Ways to Present

Show off your One Pot Pasta Tomato Basil Spaghetti by twirling it high with tongs into neat pasta nests, or pile it family-style in a big bowl drizzled with extra basil oil. For a special occasion, try serving in shallow plates with a dusting of lemon zest and shaved Parmesan for restaurant-worthy flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover One Pot Pasta Tomato Basil Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making for an even tastier next-day lunch or quick dinner.

Freezing

While pasta dishes generally don’t freeze as perfectly as some other meals, you can freeze portions of One Pot Pasta Tomato Basil Spaghetti if you like. Let it cool completely, pack into freezer bags or containers, and freeze for up to one month. The texture of the noodles may soften slightly, but the flavors remain delicious.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen up the sauce and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring often. The cheese will melt back in, and the fresh basil will reawaken the bright flavors. Add a little extra Parmesan or a handful of fresh basil to give it that just-cooked taste.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While linguine works beautifully, you can substitute spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne. Just watch the cooking time, as different shapes may need a minute or two more or less to cook through in this One Pot Pasta Tomato Basil Spaghetti.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap the chicken stock for a good-quality vegetable broth, and you’ve got a delicious, strictly vegetarian version of One Pot Pasta Tomato Basil Spaghetti.

How can I add protein to this meal?

For an extra protein boost, toss in cooked shredded chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even canned white beans right at the end. They’ll soak up the sauce and make your One Pot Pasta Tomato Basil Spaghetti even heartier.

What if I don’t have fire roasted tomatoes?

No worries—use a standard can of diced tomatoes (undrained), and consider tossing in a pinch of smoked paprika to mimic a bit of that fire-roasted depth. The One Pot Pasta Tomato Basil Spaghetti will still be fabulous.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure you use a large enough pot so the pasta can move around freely. Double all the ingredients—including water—so your One Pot Pasta Tomato Basil Spaghetti cooks evenly and absorbs all those gorgeous flavors.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been dreaming of a no-fuss dinner that tastes straight out of a trattoria, this One Pot Pasta Tomato Basil Spaghetti is calling your name. Bursting with bold flavors, vibrant color, and loads of comfort, it’s truly a recipe to put on repeat. Gather your ingredients, invite some friends, and experience the magic of one-pot pasta—your kitchen (and taste buds) will thank you!

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