One-Pot Veggie Pasta

Name: One-Pot Veggie Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium red onion, finely chopped; 2 large garlic cloves, chopped; 1 medium red bell pepper, diced; 1 medium zucchini, diced; 250 g (1/2 lb) mushrooms, sliced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1/2 tablespoon Italian seasoning mix; 500 ml (2 cups) vegetable stock (or water); 250 g (1/2 lb) uncooked short pasta; 500 ml (2 cups) pasta sauce; 125 g (1 1/2 cups) light mozzarella, grated; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; Freshly grated Parmesan or vegetarian hard cheese, to serve (optional)

Published: June 30, 2025

by Sofia

Pinterest Facebook WhatsApp X Yummly

One-pot veggie pasta is an easy, budget-friendly meal that you can whip up in just 20 minutes on a busy weeknight. It’s truly a fuss-free meal that also helps you save on washing up! This dish is perfect for family dinners, quick lunches, or even meal prep for the week. The combination of fresh vegetables and cheesy goodness makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!Pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: In just 20 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve.
One-Pot Wonder: Save time on cooking and cleaning with this all-in-one recipe.
Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or pasta shapes to suit your taste.
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vegetables, this dish provides essential vitamins and minerals.
Budget-Friendly: Using simple ingredients means you can enjoy a hearty meal without breaking the bank.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools. Having everything in place will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large deep pan or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups
Chopping board
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Large deep pan or Dutch oven: This allows for even cooking of all ingredients while providing enough space for stirring without spills.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for mixing the veggies and pasta without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this delightful one-pot veggie pasta:

For the Base

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium red onion, finely chopped
2 large garlic cloves, chopped
1 medium red bell pepper, diced
1 medium zucchini, diced
250 g (1/2 lb) mushrooms, sliced

For Flavoring

2 tablespoons tomato paste
1/2 tablespoon Italian seasoning mix
500 ml (2 cups) vegetable stock (or water)

For Pasta

250 g (1/2 lb) uncooked short pasta
500 ml (2 cups) pasta sauce

For Topping

125 g (1 1/2 cups) light mozzarella, grated
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Freshly grated Parmesan or vegetarian hard cheese, to serve (optional)

How to Make One-Pot Veggie Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large deep pan or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion, garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Add More Veggies

Stir in the diced zucchini and sliced mushrooms.
Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until they start to soften.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Mix in the tomato paste and Italian seasoning mix.
Pour in the vegetable stock, uncooked short pasta, and pasta sauce.
Toss everything well to combine thoroughly.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring occasionally.
Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and cover with a lid.
Let it simmer for about 10 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Stir in the grated mozzarella cheese.
Cover again for 1–2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt completely.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Divide into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan if desired.

Enjoy this hearty one-pot veggie pasta as a delightful weeknight meal!

How to Serve One-Pot Veggie Pasta

One-pot veggie pasta is not just a delicious meal but also versatile in how you can serve it. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Herbs

Basil or Parsley: Top your dish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a burst of flavor and color.
Chives: Add finely sliced chives for a mild onion flavor that complements the veggies.

With Cheese

Parmesan: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving for extra richness.
Feta: Crumbled feta cheese adds a tangy taste that pairs well with the pasta.

With a Side Salad

Mixed Greens: Serve the pasta alongside a simple mixed green salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings crunch and creaminess that balances the pasta nicely.

With Bread

Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Crusty Baguette: A slice of fresh baguette can be great for dipping into the veggie pasta.

How to Perfect One-Pot Veggie Pasta

Creating an amazing one-pot veggie pasta dish is easy with a few tips. Here’s how you can elevate this meal.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables to enhance flavors and nutritional value.
Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go; feel free to add more Italian seasoning or spices based on your preference.
Experiment with Pasta Shapes: Different pasta shapes can change the texture and presentation, so try using shells or penne.
Add Protein Options: For added nutrition, consider tossing in some chickpeas or lentils while cooking.

Best Side Dishes for One-Pot Veggie Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your one-pot veggie pasta can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider.

Garlic Bread: This warm, buttery bread is perfect for mopping up sauce.
Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil make a refreshing complement to your meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add an extra layer of flavor and nutrition alongside the pasta.
Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic, this appetizer is light and delicious.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus gives a nice crunch and pairs well with the creamy sauce.
Coleslaw: A zesty coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast to the soft pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making one-pot veggie pasta can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

Ignoring the chopping size – Cut your veggies into uniform sizes for even cooking. Larger pieces may remain crunchy while smaller ones turn mushy.
Overcooking the pasta – Keep an eye on the cooking time. Pasta should be al dente and will continue cooking slightly after being removed from heat.
Not seasoning adequately – Be generous with salt and pepper. Proper seasoning enhances flavors, so taste as you go!
Skipping the cheese melting step – Allowing cheese to melt with the lid on enriches the dish’s creaminess. Don’t rush this part for a better texture.
Using too much liquid – Follow measurements closely, as excess liquid can lead to a soupy consistency instead of a delicious pasta dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing.

Freezing One-Pot Veggie Pasta

Freeze in a suitable container for up to 2 months.
Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating One-Pot Veggie Pasta

Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warm.
Stovetop – Add a splash of water or broth in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about one-pot veggie pasta that might help you prepare this delightful dish.

What is One-Pot Veggie Pasta?

One-pot veggie pasta is a quick and easy meal made by cooking vegetables and pasta together in one pot, minimizing clean-up while maximizing flavor.

Can I customize One-Pot Veggie Pasta?

Absolutely! You can add your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or broccoli, or even protein sources like chickpeas or beans for extra nutrition.

How can I make this One-Pot Veggie Pasta gluten-free?

Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free options available at most grocery stores. Ensure your vegetable stock is also gluten-free.

What sauces work well with One-Pot Veggie Pasta?

You can use any variety of pasta sauce you prefer—marinara, pesto, or even Alfredo sauce can add different flavors!

Final Thoughts

One-pot veggie pasta is not only quick and budget-friendly but also offers endless customization options. Whether you prefer adding different vegetables or switching up the sauces, this recipe is versatile enough to suit any taste. Give it a try for a comforting weeknight meal!

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!