Description
A cozy and delicious Creamy One Pot Pasta with Zucchini that’s easy to make, using tender zucchini, a luscious creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta all in one pot. This comforting and quick meal is perfect for busy weeknights, delivering fresh flavors and a smooth, savory finish with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta & Vegetables
- 8 oz short pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 2 medium zucchini, washed and sliced into thin half-moons
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids & Dairy
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Fats & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Your choice of herbs (basil, thyme, oregano, or parsley), chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and slice the zucchini into thin half-moons to ensure even cooking and seamless blending with the pasta.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant to create a flavorful base.
- Add Pasta and Liquid: Pour in the dry pasta along with vegetable broth and a splash of cream. Stir gently to coat the pasta and evenly distribute zucchini throughout.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking and to help the sauce thicken.
- Stir in Cheese and Season: When the pasta is tender, remove from heat and mix in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and your preferred herbs for a luscious, creamy finish.
Notes
- Use fresh zucchini without soft spots for best flavor and texture.
- Do not overcook the pasta; al dente texture is ideal.
- Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Adjust liquid by adding more broth or cream if the pasta absorbs too much before fully cooking.
- Grate Parmesan cheese fresh for best melting results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
Keywords: one pot pasta, creamy pasta, zucchini recipe, easy dinner, vegetarian pasta, quick weeknight meal, comfort food
