Description

This easy and comforting One-Pot Pasta with Zucchini recipe combines tender rigatoni, fresh zucchini, and aromatic herbs in a creamy Parmesan sauce. With minimal prep and cooking time, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that requires just one pot, making cleanup quick and simple. The pasta cooks right in the broth with vegetables and seasonings, melding all the flavors beautifully for a rich and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Vegetables

1 pound rigatoni
2 large zucchini, sliced
1/2 white onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Liquids

1 Tablespoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Crushed red pepper to taste
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, place the rigatoni, sliced zucchini, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, salt, black pepper, crushed red pepper, and broth together.
Bring to Boil: Set the pot over high heat and bring the entire mixture to a rolling boil, ensuring all ingredients start to cook evenly.
Simmer Covered: Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 12-14 minutes until the rigatoni is cooked al dente and zucchini is tender but not mushy.
Finish with Cream and Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese thoroughly until a creamy sauce forms.
Rest and Thicken: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes off the heat so the sauce can thicken and flavors meld together beautifully.
Serve: Serve the creamy pasta hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.

Notes

Use either vegetable or chicken broth depending on your preference or dietary needs.
For a spicier version, increase the crushed red pepper according to taste.
Ensure you do not overcook the zucchini to retain some texture.
Stir the pasta occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking.
This dish reheats well in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.