One-Pan Orecchiette Pasta Recipe

One-pan orecchiette pasta is a simple, flavorful dish that requires minimal prep and clean-up. The pasta is cooked directly in a savory tomato broth with aromatic herbs, allowing it to absorb all the delicious flavors of the sauce. With the combination of onion, garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal any day of the week.

Ingredients

• 12 oz orecchiette pasta
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Directions

1. In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat and sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Add the orecchiette pasta to the skillet, stirring it into the broth and tomato mixture. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Once the pasta is cooked, serve the dish hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: For extra protein, add cooked chicken, sausage, or chickpeas to the dish. Simply stir them in after the pasta is cooked, letting the flavors combine.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped fresh chili along with the garlic for some extra heat.
• Vegetable Additions: Try adding spinach, kale, zucchini, or roasted red peppers for added texture and flavor. These can be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Creamy Version: For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or some ricotta cheese after the pasta has finished cooking.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet with a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the sauce. Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Yes, you can substitute orecchiette with another small pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta’s package instructions.
2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
   Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free. Be mindful that gluten-free pasta may cook a little faster or slower, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
3. Can I make this pasta in advance?
   Yes, you can make the pasta ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove with a splash of broth to keep the sauce moist.
4. Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
   Yes, chicken broth can be used as a substitute for vegetable broth for a richer flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian version, stick with vegetable broth.
5. Can I make this dish vegan?
   To make this recipe vegan, simply skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
6. What other seasonings can I use in this dish?
   You can experiment with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley. Adding a bay leaf while cooking can also add extra depth of flavor.
7. What can I serve with this pasta?
   This pasta pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also complement the dish.
8. How can I make the sauce thicker?
   If you’d like a thicker sauce, let the pasta simmer a little longer, stirring frequently, until the sauce reduces to your desired consistency.
9. Is this a one-pot meal?
   Yes, this is a true one-pot meal, which means minimal clean-up! You cook everything in one skillet, making it both easy and convenient.
10. Can I freeze leftovers?
    While pasta dishes generally freeze well, the sauce may change texture when thawed. If you plan to freeze leftovers, consider freezing the sauce and pasta separately, then combining them when reheating.

Conclusion

One-pan orecchiette pasta is a quick, easy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a no-fuss dish that packs plenty of flavor. The combination of savory tomato broth, aromatic herbs, and tender pasta creates a comforting meal that’s satisfying and adaptable. Whether you enjoy it as is or customize it with additional proteins and vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

Print