Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One-Pan Caprese Pasta is the epitome of convenience and flavor. With minimal prep and cleanup, this dish is perfect for those busy nights when you want something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The combination of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil gives you the classic Caprese flavor, while the pasta adds heartiness to the dish. Since it’s made all in one pan, the pasta absorbs all the savory flavors, making each bite incredibly flavorful. It’s a perfect balance of light and satisfying—ideal for anyone craving comfort food with a fresh twist.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your favorite pasta)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 1/2 cups fresh mozzarella balls, halved (or cubed if using larger mozzarella)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for drizzling)
- Fresh Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Cook the Pasta:
- In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the Tomatoes:
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Add the uncooked pasta to the pan along with the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. If needed, add more broth or water to prevent the pasta from sticking.
- Add the Cheese and Basil:
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the fresh mozzarella and chopped basil. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the cheese has melted and everything is well combined.
- Season and Serve:
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Drizzle with balsamic vinegar, if desired, and garnish with more fresh basil and Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Add Protein: For a heartier dish, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Vegan Version: Use dairy-free mozzarella and skip the Parmesan for a completely plant-based meal.
- Add Veggies: You can add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
- Spicy Caprese Pasta: Add a sliced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the dish some heat.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen the pasta if needed.
FAQs
1. Can I use any type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Penne, spaghetti, or fusilli all work well in this recipe.
2. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Fresh tomatoes are ideal for this dish, but if fresh tomatoes are unavailable, you can substitute with canned diced tomatoes. Just be sure to drain the excess liquid before adding.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it with a splash of water or broth to bring it back to life.
4. Can I add other herbs to this pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or parsley to enhance the flavor of the dish.
5. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
6. How can I make this pasta creamier?
To make it creamier, you can stir in a few tablespoons of heavy cream or a bit of cream cheese just before adding the mozzarella.
7. Can I use pre-shredded mozzarella?
Yes, you can use pre-shredded mozzarella, but fresh mozzarella adds a creamier, more authentic texture. If using shredded cheese, try to use a high-quality brand for the best results.
8. Can I make this without basil?
While basil is a key component of the Caprese flavor, you can substitute it with other fresh herbs, such as parsley or arugula, for a different taste.
9. Can I use a different type of cheese?
If you don’t have fresh mozzarella, you can use another melty cheese like provolone or fontina. You can also add Parmesan for extra flavor.
10. Can I freeze One-Pan Caprese Pasta?
While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the pasta after cooking. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat on the stove with a little added broth or water.
Conclusion
One-Pan Caprese Pasta is a simple, flavorful, and fuss-free dish that brings the fresh flavors of a classic Caprese salad into a comforting pasta meal. It’s quick to prepare, easy to clean up, and bursting with the bright flavors of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its versatility, you can easily adapt it to suit your preferences, making it the perfect dish for any occasion. Enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors in every bite!
PrintOne-Pan Caprese Pasta
One-Pan Caprese Pasta is a simple and delicious dish featuring fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and pasta all cooked in one pan. This vibrant, flavorful meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual dinner party, with minimal prep and cleanup.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing, Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your favorite pasta)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 1/2 cups fresh mozzarella balls, halved (or cubed if using larger mozzarella)
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for drizzling)
Fresh Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)
Instructions
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices.
- Add the uncooked pasta to the pan along with the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Add more broth or water as needed to prevent sticking.
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the fresh mozzarella and chopped basil. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the cheese has melted and everything is well combined.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Drizzle with balsamic vinegar, if desired, and garnish with more fresh basil and Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- If you prefer, use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
- For a creamier dish, stir in heavy cream or cream cheese just before adding the mozzarella.
- Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu can be added for extra protein.
- Feel free to experiment with other herbs like oregano or thyme for additional flavor.
- If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, provolone or fontina can be used as a substitute.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
