One Pot Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

Name: One Pot Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 pints cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 cloves garlic, chopped; ½ pound spaghetti (or linguine or fettuccine); 3 cups boiling water (or more as needed); 1 ½ teaspoons salt; 2 cups baby spinach; ½ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

By:

Sarah

Published:

December 16, 2025

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One pot pasta with cherry tomatoes (Meghan Markle Pasta) is one of those soul-soothing dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. You throw it all in one pot, and in not much time, you’re treating yourself and your loved ones to a comforting meal. The bright, juicy cherry tomatoes pop with flavor while the creamy parmesan envelops the pasta in a rich blanket. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s downright delicious. Plus, the fact that it’s named after Meghan Markle adds a touch of royal charm to your dinner table. So whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a weeknight feast, this recipe has you covered. Grab your ingredients and let’s make this wonderfully simple yet spectacular dish.

Why This Recipe Works

This One Pot Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes embraces the simplicity of one-pot cooking, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. You won’t stare at a sink full of dishes afterward, which is a definite win in my book! The combination of fresh cherry tomatoes and creamy parmesan creates a delightful balance of flavors. Each bite is bursting with freshness, making it a favorite among everyone in the family. You’ll love how it comes together effortlessly and tastes like you’ve spent hours preparing it.

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes (Meghan Markle Pasta)

Not only is this dish quick to prepare, but it’s also incredibly comforting. The creamy texture of the sauce combined with the vibrant colors of the ingredients makes for a visually appealing meal. Honestly, who wouldn’t want to dig into that? It creates a memorable dining experience for family and friends, making every meal feel special. With its rich flavors and easy preparations, you’ll find yourself coming back for seconds—even thirds.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 pints cherry tomatoes, halved
3 cloves garlic, chopped
½ pound spaghetti (or linguine or fettuccine)
3 cups boiling water (or more as needed)
1 ½ teaspoons salt
2 cups baby spinach
½ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Cooking Instructions

Heat the Oil and Sauté

In a large stainless skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it sizzles—about 1 minute should do it. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped garlic, sautéing until fragrant—this should only take about a minute. Doesn’t that smell divine?

Layer the Pasta and Water

Now, spread the spaghetti noodles evenly over the sautéed tomatoes. Carefully pour in the boiling water, making sure the pasta is fully submerged. A pinch or two of salt adds a nice touch of flavor now.

Cook the Pasta

Let the mixture cook uncovered until the spaghetti is al dente—this usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally. If you find that it’s looking a bit dry, feel free to stir in more boiling water to keep that creamy consistency.

Add Spinach and Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, add the baby spinach, freshly grated parmesan cheese, and ground black pepper. Toss everything together until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts, forming a creamy, luscious sauce that clings to each noodle.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this One Pot Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes hot. For an extra touch, garnish with some additional parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh basil. A crisp green salad alongside this dish adds a nice crunch, and some garlic bread on the side transforms your meal into something truly special.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best flavors, don’t skimp on using high-quality extra virgin olive oil. You may adjust the amount of boiling water depending on how creamy you want your dish to be. Also, using freshly grated parmesan makes a noticeable difference compared to the pre-grated stuff; it melts better and has a richer taste.

Variations

If you’re looking to boost the protein in this dish, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp. Alternatively, you could substitute the spinach with kale or arugula for a different nutritional profile. Feel free to get creative!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely because it’s so good!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat on the stove with a splash of water. This helps to restore that creamy goodness.

FAQ

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! You can swap out spaghetti for linguine, fettuccine, or whole-grain varieties—whatever suits your taste.

How can I make this dish vegan?

To make this One Pot Pasta vegan, just omit the parmesan cheese or go for a vegan cheese alternative.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can easily make this gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to toss in zucchini, bell peppers, or any vegetables you enjoy to up the nutrition even more.

How do I make this recipe spicier?

For some heat, simply add crushed red pepper flakes when you’re sautéing the garlic.

This One Pot Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes (Meghan Markle Pasta) is not just a meal; it’s an experience. With its delightful blend of flavors and textures, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. The ease of cleaning up after makes it even more appealing for busy weeknights. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this dish that perfectly combines comfort with sophistication. Enjoy cooking and savor every bite!

One Pot Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

Why This Recipe Works

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes (Meghan Markle Pasta)

Ingredients