There’s something about a meal that comes together in a single pot that feels like a small win in a busy week. This one pot pasta in a Dutch oven is exactly that—easy, satisfying, and just the kind of dinner you want when the day has run away from you. The aromas of garlic and simmering tomatoes fill the kitchen as the pasta cooks right in the pot, and you don’t even have to pull out a bunch of dishes afterward. It’s a real no-fuss comfort food moment that still tastes like you put in some thought.
I remember the first time I made this, I was halfway distracted by a phone call and almost forgot to stir the pasta. Somewhere between the bubbling broth and the fragrant herbs, I realized a bit late that the noodles might stick—but luckily, the Dutch oven handled it gracefully, and the pasta turned out tender and flavorful. It wasn’t perfect, but it was real and delicious, and that’s what counts when you’re hungry and in a hurry.
- All-in-one cooking reduces cleanup, which feels like a small victory after a long day.
- The flavors develop as the pasta cooks in the broth and tomatoes, making every bite rich without much effort.
- It’s quick—ready in about half an hour—but still feels like a warm, home-cooked meal.
- It’s simple—and that’s kind of the point. No fancy techniques or rare ingredients needed.
If you’re worried about timing or whether you’ll get the pasta just right, don’t be. This recipe is forgiving, and the Dutch oven helps everything cook evenly. Plus, it’s easy to adjust if you want to add a bit more spice or toss in some extra veggies you have on hand.
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One Pot Pasta in a Dutch Oven
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A quick and easy one pot pasta recipe cooked entirely in a Dutch oven. This flavorful dish combines pasta, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs for a comforting meal with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
12 ounces dry spaghetti
1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes with juice
4 cups vegetable broth
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a 5-6 quart Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the sliced onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
Add the dry spaghetti, diced tomatoes with juice, vegetable broth, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the Dutch oven.
Stir everything together to combine and ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 10-12 minutes.
Remove the Dutch oven from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pasta before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Using a Dutch oven means you don’t need fancy equipment—just a reliable, heavy pot that holds heat well. This recipe works well if you want to serve it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce. I’ve played around with adding mushrooms or swapping in different herbs depending on what’s in the fridge, though I usually stick close to the original because it’s just so comforting. Sometimes I even sprinkle a bit more Parmesan on top or add a pinch more red pepper flakes if I’m feeling adventurous.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta? Most pasta shapes should work, but cooking times may vary slightly. Just keep an eye on the pot as it simmers.
What if I don’t have a Dutch oven? A heavy-bottomed pot with a lid can do the trick, though heat distribution might not be as even.
How can I make it vegan? Skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version.
Whether you’re craving a fuss-free dinner or just want to enjoy a cozy meal without the mess, this one pot pasta in a Dutch oven is a great pick. Give it a try and see how easy comfort food can be.