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Everyday Kitchen

Weeknight · 25 min

One-Pot Tomato Basil Pasta

Everything cooks in one pot — the starch from the pasta thickens the sauce as it simmers, so dinner lands on the table with a single pan to wash.

You'll need

  • 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or linguine
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 4 cups water or low-sodium broth
  • 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 4 garlic cloves, sliced
  • 1 tsp salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large handful fresh basil leaves
  • Grated parmesan, to serve

Steps

  1. Combine the pasta, crushed tomatoes, water, onion, garlic, salt, pepper flakes, and olive oil in a wide pot or deep skillet.
  2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a strong simmer. Cook, tossing with tongs every couple of minutes so nothing sticks, for 10–12 minutes.
  3. When the pasta is al dente and the liquid has reduced to a glossy sauce, remove from the heat.
  4. Tear in the basil, taste for salt, and serve with parmesan.

If the sauce tightens up before the pasta is done, add hot water a half cup at a time.