Meghan Markle’s One-Pan Pasta Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for an unfussy yet flavor-packed pasta dinner, Meghan Markle’s One-Pan Pasta is a true weeknight hero. It brings together glossy strands of spaghetti, burst cherry tomatoes, verdant greens, and a just-creamy-enough Parmesan sauce—all in just one pan. No endless stirring, no mountains of dishes, just an effortlessly elegant dish that feels as joyful at a cozy dinner for two as it does at a laid-back dinner party. One bite and you’ll see why this recipe has charmed food lovers everywhere!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Everything in this recipe is about bringing maximum flavor with minimum fuss. Every ingredient has its own magic to impart, whether it’s vibrant color, punchy depth, or a creamy finish that ties everything together in one irresistible bite.

• Water: Just enough to cook the pasta perfectly and help create a silky sauce right in the pan.
• Cherry tomatoes, halved: These release sweetness and acidity as they cook, forming the juicy base for the sauce.
• Garlic, minced: Essential for a savory backbone and aromatic lift with every twirl of pasta.
• Olive oil: Helps everything meld together and brings a rich, velvety mouthfeel.
• Kosher salt: Balances flavors and wakes up every ingredient.
• Spaghetti: The classic pasta of choice here, perfect for soaking up every drop of sauce.
• Lemon zest: Brightens up the whole dish and keeps things lively.
• Crushed red pepper: Adds just a tingle of gentle heat for depth.
• Greens (arugula, baby spinach, or Swiss chard): Wilt beautifully and give color, nutrients, and freshness.
• Parmesan cheese, grated: Melts into the pasta, enhancing creaminess and umami.
• Basil leaves, for garnish: Delivers fragrant herbal notes and a fresh finish.

How to Make Meghan Markle’s One-Pan Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Water

Start by boiling water in a small saucepan or kettle. You don’t need the big pasta pot here—the beauty of Meghan Markle’s One-Pan Pasta is its simplicity and lack of mess. Heating water separately means you’re ready when it’s time to add it to the pan.

Step 2: Layer the Base Ingredients

In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, pile in your halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, olive oil, and salt. Lay the spaghetti straight over the top and sprinkle the lemon zest all around. Layering these elements ensures the flavors all meld together as everything cooks.

Step 3: Begin Cooking

Pour just enough of the boiling water into the skillet to cover the pasta. Set the pan over medium heat and bring it all to a gentle boil. Put the lid on and let the magic begin—after about 6 minutes, give everything a quick stir to help the spaghetti loosen and absorb all those wonderful flavors.

Step 4: Finish Cooking the Pasta

Remove the lid and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for another 4 to 5 minutes. The tomatoes will soften, the garlic will mellow, and the liquid will reduce, coating every noodle beautifully. Keep an eye on the pasta; you want it to be just al dente and the sauce to have thickened enough to coat each strand.

Step 5: Add Greens and Parmesan

Time for the big finish: toss in the crushed red pepper, your greens of choice, and the Parmesan cheese. Stir until the greens are barely wilted and the Parmesan has melted into a creamy, dreamy sauce that clings to the spaghetti. At this point, season to taste with extra salt or crushed red pepper, if you like a touch more heat.

How to Serve Meghan Markle’s One-Pan Pasta

Garnishes

Don’t skip the garnish—the final touch of fresh basil leaves and an extra shower of grated Parmesan take Meghan Markle’s One-Pan Pasta from homey to heavenly. The basil brightens every bite, and the extra cheese adds a satisfying, salty finish.

Side Dishes

This vibrant pasta is so well balanced it honestly shines on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or crusty bread to mop up any extra sauce. If you’re feeling fancy, a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling lemonade makes it a celebration meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving Meghan Markle’s One-Pan Pasta right from the pan for a rustic, family-style vibe. Or, twist the spaghetti into pretty nests on each plate and add a flourish of basil on top. For a picnic or casual night, portion it into bowls and let everyone help themselves—it’s comfort food that looks as irresistible as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), let the pasta cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to three days, maintaining its freshness and creamy texture.

Freezing

While Meghan Markle’s One-Pan Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers in a pinch. Place the cooled pasta into a freezer-safe container and store for up to one month. When you’re ready to reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results—just note the greens may wilt further upon reheating.

Reheating

To bring your pasta back to life, add a splash of water or stock and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until hot. This will help revive the sauce and prevent the noodles from drying out. A fresh sprinkle of Parmesan and a leaf or two of basil makes it taste like new!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti works beautifully, you can try linguine, fettuccine, or even penne. Just be mindful of differing cook times and add a bit more water if using a heartier shape.

Do I have to use all three types of greens?

Not at all—use what you love or have on hand! Arugula gives a peppery bite, spinach is mild and tender, and Swiss chard brings a subtle earthiness. One type or a blend, it’s up to you.

Can I make Meghan Markle’s One-Pan Pasta vegan?

You can swap the Parmesan for a vegan Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version. The sauce will still be creamy and flavorful!

Is this dish spicy?

There’s a gentle kick from the crushed red pepper, but it’s easy to dial up or down. Skip it for a milder flavor or add more if you love a little heat.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Of course! Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas just before serving for an extra boost of protein, making Meghan Markle’s One-Pan Pasta even heartier.

Final Thoughts

This dish really is a celebration of fuss-free, flavorful cooking. I hope you fall as hard for Meghan Markle’s One-Pan Pasta as I have—give it a try and watch your weeknight dinner routine light up with joy and ease!

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