# Recipe Post
Total Time: 25 Minutes
## Introduction
Are you searching for an easy, affordable, and delicious meal? Look no further! This easy and affordable one-pot pasta dish is just the ticket. With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, it delivers complex, satisfying flavors. This dish caters for four people and is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or feed a crowd without breaking the bank.
## Why Make This Recipe
This recipe stands out due to a combination of ease, affordability, and deliciousness. It’s a one-pot wonder, meaning minimal cleanup. It’s inexpensive, using simple, everyday pantry items. It also takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
## How to Make Easy and Affordable One-Pot Pasta Dish
## Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need:
– 8 oz spaghetti or any pasta of your choice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
## Directions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until it releases its aroma, approximately 1 minute.
2. Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (juice included) and broth into the pot. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil. Add your pasta, reduce the heat to medium, and let it simmer until the pasta is to your liking and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4. Turn off the heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the pasta becomes creamy.
5. Serve hot and garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
## How to Serve Easy and Affordable One-Pot Pasta Dish
Serve this pasta hot directly from the pot. You can also pair it with a simple side salad or serve it with crusty bread to soak up the remaining sauce.
## How to Store Easy and Affordable One-Pot Pasta Dish
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a pot or microwaveable dish with a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out, then heat until warm.
## Tips to Make Easy and Affordable One-Pot Pasta Dish
1. Remember to stir the pasta occasionally as it cooks to prevent it from sticking to the pot.
2. To speed up the cooking process, cover the pot but remember to stir occasionally.
3. If you prefer a more saucy pasta, consider adding more broth.
4. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta based on your preference.
## Variation
To switch it up, you can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. You may also add cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein.
## FAQs
1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain pasta can be used. However, adjust the cooking time as per pasta package instructions.
2. Can I use fresh tomatoes?
Yes, you can use approximately 2 cups of fresh, diced tomatoes as a replacement for canned ones.
3. Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese of your choice and ensure to use vegetable broth.
Enjoy this delightful, easy, and low-cost meal that not only satisfies your taste buds but also fits perfectly into a tight budget. Happy cooking!