Imagine a restaurant-quality meal that comes together with minimal effort and maximum flavor - that's exactly what this One Pan Caprese Pasta delivers! No complicated techniques, no endless dishes to wash, just pure, vibrant Italian-inspired deliciousness that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-drenched hills of Tuscany. Whether you're a busy professional, a home cook looking for a quick weeknight dinner, or someone who wants to impress without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe is your perfect culinary companion.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place a large skillet or wide pan over medium-high heat and add olive oil, warming until it shimmers slightly.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to start releasing their natural juices and develop light caramelization.
- Pour in vegetable broth and add uncooked pasta directly to the pan, stirring to ensure even distribution and prevent sticking.
- Bring the liquid to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and cover the pan, allowing pasta to simmer and absorb the broth for approximately 12-15 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking and ensure even cooking, checking pasta's tenderness as liquid reduces.
- Once pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed, remove from heat and let stand for 2 minutes.
- Gently fold in fresh mozzarella balls, allowing them to slightly melt from the residual heat.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Garnish generously with chopped fresh basil just before serving.
- Serve immediately in warm bowls, ensuring each portion has a beautiful mix of pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While penne or fusilli work great, select a pasta shape that can hold sauce well and cook evenly.
- Temperature Control: Keep your heat at medium-low to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
- Liquid Absorption: Don't rush the cooking process. Let the pasta slowly absorb the broth for maximum flavor infusion.
- Mozzarella Magic: Use fresh mozzarella balls and add them at the very end to get that perfect, slightly melted texture.
- Basil Brilliance: Chop basil just before serving to maintain its bright, fresh flavor and vibrant green color.
- Salt Strategically: Taste and adjust seasoning at the end, as broth and mozzarella already contribute some saltiness.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve immediately while the pasta is hot and the cheese is still gently melting for the best experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 489kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: mg
