Quick & Easy One-Pot Pasta

This weeknight-friendly recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting yet quick to make. The term we're focusing on in this article is "One-Pot Pasta," which describes dishes that can be prepared easily and efficiently in a single pot, resulting in minimal clean-up.

One-pot pasta recipes are simple, satisfying, and ideal for those nights when you want something easy but still delicious. These meals often incorporate a variety of flavors and textures, making them both filling and tasty. From creamy alfredo to hearty tomato-based sauces, the options for one-pot pasta dishes are nearly endless.

For today's recipe, we have prepared a quick and easy One-Pot Pasta that will have your family asking for seconds. It’s packed with flavor and requires minimal effort – perfect for busy nights!

Ingredients

• 1 pound of elbow macaroni
• 3 tablespoons of olive oil
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Start by boiling a large pot of water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.

While the pasta is cooking, heat up 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet on medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant but not browned.

Once the pasta is done, drain it well and transfer it to the skillet with the garlic. Stir everything together gently so that all pieces get coated evenly with the garlic flavor.

Add a can of diced tomatoes, stirring again until heated through. Season liberally with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.

Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly. At this point, add 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, mixing thoroughly until everything is well combined and the pasta is covered in creamy goodness.

Cover the pot and let it sit for another couple of minutes to allow the cheese to melt fully without overcooking or burning the pasta.

Finally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Serve immediately while hot so everyone can dive right into their meal!

Cooking Time & Servings

This dish takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish and serves four people nicely. This means it's not only convenient for busy weeknights but also a great choice when hosting small groups of friends or family.

Health Benefits

• Macaroni: Whole grain pasta can be part of a balanced diet, providing complex carbohydrates that provide sustained energy and dietary fiber which aids digestion.
• Tomatoes: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as being an excellent source of lycopene, known for its antioxidant properties beneficial for heart health.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Contains high-quality protein, which can help build lean muscle mass when combined with strength training exercises. It also provides calcium important for bone health.

This quick and easy One-Pot Pasta not only satisfies your hunger but does so in a healthy manner too! If you're looking for another variation to try, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to add extra nutrients and color.

One-pot pasta recipes are wonderful additions to any meal repertoire. They offer convenience, taste, and nutrition wrapped up into one satisfying dish. Whether you’re short on time or simply want a comforting meal, these simple yet flavorful dishes will definitely become favorites in your household!