One Pot Pasta: A Simple and Satisfying Italian Dish

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One pot pasta is a great way to cook a delicious and satisfying Italian meal with minimal cleanup. This recipe combines rigatoni, Italian sausage, and a creamy tomato sauce for a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This one pot pasta recipe is a staple for any pasta lover. It’s easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and can be customized to suit your tastes.

The best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

One of the things that sets this recipe apart is the use of Italian sausage. The spicy flavor of the sausage pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy tomato sauce, creating a truly unforgettable taste experience.

Ingredients

Here is everything you need to make this recipe from scratch.

1 pound rigatoni , a tubular pasta shape that holds onto the sauce perfectly

1 pound Italian sausage , spicy and flavorful, this sausage is the star of the show

2 tablespoons olive oil , for sautéing the sausage and onions

1 onion, diced , adds a sweet and savory flavor to the dish

3 cloves garlic, minced , because everything is better with garlic, right?

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes , the base of our creamy tomato sauce

1 cup chicken broth , adds moisture and flavor to the sauce

1 tablespoon tomato paste , concentrates the tomato flavor for a richer sauce

1 teaspoon dried basil , a classic Italian herb that pairs perfectly with tomatoes

1 teaspoon dried oregano , adds a pungent and earthy flavor to the sauce

Salt and pepper, to taste , because every dish needs a little seasoning

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese , the perfect finishing touch for our one pot pasta

Why These Ingredients

Rigatoni

Rigatoni is a great choice for this recipe because of its tubular shape. The tubes provide a large surface area for the sauce to cling to, making each bite a flavorful one.

You can also use other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli, but rigatoni is our top pick.

Italian Sausage

Italian sausage is the star of the show in this recipe. The spicy flavor of the sausage pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy tomato sauce, creating a truly unforgettable taste experience.

You can use sweet or hot Italian sausage, depending on your preference.

Crushed Tomatoes

Crushed tomatoes are the base of our creamy tomato sauce. They provide a rich and intense tomato flavor that’s perfect for coating our rigatoni.

You can also use diced tomatoes or fresh tomatoes, but crushed tomatoes are our top pick.

Instructions

Let’s walk through every step in detail so your recipe turns out perfectly.

Step 1: Cook the Sausage , Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Soften the Onions , Add the diced onion to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Garlic and Tomatoes , Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. Then, add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, dried basil, and dried oregano.

Stir to combine.

Step 4: Add the Pasta , Add the rigatoni to the pot and stir to combine with the sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, until the pasta is al dente, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan , Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot.

How To Serve

This one pot pasta is perfect for a weeknight dinner, and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas:

You can serve it straight from the pot, topped with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley.

Or, you can add some protein like cooked chicken or sausage to make it a more substantial meal.

You can also add some steamed vegetables like broccoli or spinach to make it a healthier option.

And, if you’re feeling fancy, you can serve it with a side of garlic bread or a green salad.

How To Keep Leftovers

Room Temperature

You can store the leftover pasta at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, it’s best to refrigerate or freeze it to prevent bacterial growth.

Refrigerator

You can store the leftover pasta in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.

Freezer

You can also freeze the leftover pasta for up to 3 months. Simply transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and keep it in the freezer at a temperature of 0°F (-18°C) or below.

When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Top Tips

Use High-Quality Ingredients

The quality of your ingredients can make or break this recipe. Use high-quality Italian sausage, fresh tomatoes, and good-quality cheese for the best flavor.

Don’t Overcook the Pasta

Al dente pasta is the best, so be careful not to overcook it. Check the pasta frequently during the cooking time to ensure it’s cooked to your liking.

Customize to Your Taste

This recipe is highly customizable, so don’t be afraid to add your own favorite ingredients or spices. Some ideas include adding cooked chicken or sausage, using different types of cheese, or adding some heat with red pepper flakes.

Use the Right Pot

A large, heavy pot is essential for this recipe. It allows you to cook the pasta and sauce together without the risk of scorching or sticking.

Don’t Skip the Tomato Paste

Tomato paste is a concentrated form of tomatoes that adds depth and richness to the sauce. Don’t skip it, as it’s an essential ingredient in this recipe.

Final Thoughts

This one pot pasta recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s easy to make, customizable, and packed with flavor.

Give it a try and see for yourself why it’s a staple in many Italian households.