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Creamy One Pot Pasta with Zucchini

Creamy One Pot Pasta with Zucchini
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Creamy One Pot Pasta with Zucchini is a quick, wholesome, and satisfying dinner recipe combining tender pasta, fresh zucchini, and a luscious creamy sauce all cooked together in one pot for minimal cleanup. Perfect for weeknights or any time you want a comforting and flavorful meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 8 oz penne or fusilli pasta
  • 2 medium fresh zucchinis, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Protein additions: grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon (as desired)
  • Dairy-free substitutes: coconut milk or cashew cream
  • Additional vegetables: mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach
  • Spices for heat: red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños
  • Alternative cheeses: goat cheese or cream cheese

Instructions

  1. Prep the zucchini and aromatics: Wash and dice the zucchinis into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic and finely chop the onion to prepare for sautéing, which forms the flavor base.
  2. Sauté onions and garlic: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
  3. Add zucchini: Stir in the diced zucchini and sauté for another 2-3 minutes so it softens slightly and begins to release its juices.
  4. Add pasta and liquids: Pour in the uncooked pasta, followed by the vegetable or chicken broth and the heavy cream. The liquid should just cover the pasta, allowing even cooking and creating the creamy sauce.
  5. Cook until creamy and tender: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Stir frequently to prevent sticking, and cook until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, about 12-15 minutes.
  6. Stir in cheese and season: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  7. Garnish and serve: Finish with freshly chopped basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm, optionally adding a drizzle of olive oil and additional Parmesan on top for extra flavor.

Notes

  • Keep an eye on the pasta while it cooks to avoid over-softening.
  • Add broth and cream gradually to control sauce consistency.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and richer flavor.
  • Stir frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent the pasta from sticking.
  • Add fresh herbs right before serving to maintain their bright flavor.
  • For a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for longer or stir in a little cream cheese or extra Parmesan.
  • To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure broth is gluten-free.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and use vegan cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: one pot pasta, creamy pasta, zucchini pasta, quick dinner, easy recipe, gluten free pasta, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://gourmetglazing.com/creamy-one-pot-pasta-with-zucchini/