One Pot Cozy Weeknight Pasta

This is the dinner I make when I want something warm and filling but don’t have the energy for decisions. It’s forgiving, flexible, and comes together in one pot - which matters on tired weeknights.

I’ve made some version of this more times than I can count. It’s not fancy, but it’s reliable, and sometimes that’s exactly what you need.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or whatever you have)

• 1 jar marinara sauce (about 24 oz)

• 2 cups water or broth

• 1/2 teaspoon salt (more to taste)

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)

• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Optional add ins:

• Cooked sausage or ground meat

• A can of white beans

• A handful of spinach or kale

• Grated parmesan for serving

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

2. Add the diced onion and cook until soft, about 3-5 minutes.

3. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

4. Add the pasta, marinara sauce, and water or broth. Stir well.

5. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if using.

6. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered.

7. Stir occasionally and cook until pasta is tender and sauce thickens, about 12-15 minutes.

8. Add any optional add ins during the last few minutes to warm through.

9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Notes

• If the pasta absorbs too much liquid, add a splash of water and stir.

• This works with almost any pasta shape.

• I usually serve it with parmesan and call it good enough.

If You’re New Here

I share realistic recipes, bookish thoughts, and notes from a lived in life. Nothing here is meant to be perfect - just useful and comforting.

Gentle Reminder

This is the kind of meal that keeps showing up because it works. Save it for a night when you don’t want to think too hard about dinner.