One Pot Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes (Meghan Markle Pasta)

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This One Pot Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes (also known as the Meghan Markle Pasta) is a simple, creamy, and flavorful dish made with a delicious combination of cherry tomatoes, garlic, spinach, and pasta, all simmered in one pan for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. Inspired by the viral Meghan Markle pasta recipe, this copycat version brings all the cozy comfort of the original with just a few pantry staple ingredients.

One Pot Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes (Meghan Markle Pasta) is a simple, creamy, and flavorful dish made in one pan for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. | aheadofthyme.com

Perfect for weeknight dinners or lazy weekend meals, this pasta is rich, hearty, and packed with veggies. The cherry tomatoes melt down into a silky sauce, while baby spinach adds a fresh pop of color and nutrients. Parmesan cheese ties everything together into a bowl of pure comfort. Plus, it all comes together in under 30 minutes.

Why You'll Love this One Pot Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

One pan, no hassle. Everything cooks in a single skillet, including the spaghetti, which means fewer dishes to wash and a faster cleanup. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without the mess.
Inspired by Meghan Markle. This recipe is a nod to the viral pasta dish shared by Meghan Markle, using slow-simmered tomatoes as the sauce base. It's a minimalist, elegant take that still delivers big flavor.
Fresh and flavorful. Cherry tomatoes, garlic, and spinach create a light but flavorful sauce that clings to each strand of spaghetti. The parmesan adds a creamy finish without needing heavy cream or butter.
Quick and satisfying. Ready in under 30 minutes, this pasta is perfect when you're short on time but still want something cozy, warm, and filling. It's a go-to comfort food that doesn't require much effort yet feels restaurant-worthy.

Ingredient Notes

To make this easy One Pot Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes, you will need the following ingredients (full measurements in recipe card below):

extra virgin olive oil - for sautéing and adding richness to the sauce. Feel free to substitute with avocado oil or light olive oil.
cherry tomatoes - they break down into a soft, jammy texture and forms the base of the sauce. You can substitute with grape tomatoes or canned San Marzano tomatoes.
garlic - adds a savory depth to the dish. You can also use garlic paste or roasted garlic for a milder flavor.
spaghetti - the pasta gets cooked directly in the pan with the other ingredients. Use any other kind of pasta that you like. We like long shaped pasta such as linguine, fettuccine, or a gluten-free pasta.
boiling water - helps cook the pasta and transform the tomatoes into sauce.
baby spinach - stirred in at the end for freshness, color, and nutrients. You could also use kale or Swiss chard.
parmesan cheese - use freshly grated for best and creamiest results. Substitute with pecorino romano or grana padano, if desired. You can also use nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
salt and pepper - for seasoning.

You will also need measuring cups and spoons and large skillet or sauté pan.

How to Make the Best One Pot Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

Sauté. In a large stainless skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat until the hot oil sizzles, about 1 minute Add cherry tomatoes and garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add pasta. Spread spaghetti noodles over the tomatoes, then carefully add the boiling water to the skillet. Season with salt.

Cook. Cook uncovered until the spaghetti is al dente, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in more boiling water to make it creamy and saucy, if needed.
Add spinach. Add spinach, parmesan cheese, and black pepper. Toss well until the spinach is wilted. Serve immediately.

Recipe Variations

Use different pasta shapes. Swap spaghetti for linguine, fettuccine, or short pasta like penne or fusilli to change up the texture and look of the dish.
Make it vegan. Skip the parmesan or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast to keep the creamy, cheesy flavor.
Add protein. Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or white beans at the end for extra protein without changing the core of the recipe.
Boost the veggies. Add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers with the tomatoes for more volume and extra nutrition.

How to Serve

This One Pot Cherry Tomato Pasta is delicious served on its own, hot and straight from the skillet with extra parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper. It also pairs well with some pasta sides including:

For more recipes, see our 30 Side Dishes for Pasta.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Use a wide skillet. A wide-bottomed pan helps the spaghetti cook more evenly and gives the tomatoes space to simmer and reduce properly.
Smash the tomatoes. As the cherry tomatoes soften, gently smash them with the back of a spoon to release their juices and create the sauce.
Use enough water. Add just enough boiling water to cook the pasta without drying out the pan, about 3 cups to start, adjusting as needed.
Stir often. Keep the pasta moving in the skillet so it cooks evenly and absorbs the sauce without sticking.
Layer in spinach gradually. If your skillet is full, add the spinach in handfuls and stir until it wilts before adding more. This helps it incorporate evenly.

Storing and Freezing Instructions

How to Store

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

How to Reheat

To reheat, place pasta in a skillet over medium heat with a tablespoon or two of water. Stir until warmed through, adding a little more parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil if needed to bring back the creaminess. You can also reheat in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.

How to Freeze

This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be frozen. Allow the pasta to cool completely, then store in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove with a splash of water. Note: the texture of the pasta may be softer after freezing.

FAQ

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Yes, though cherry tomatoes are ideal for their natural sweetness and texture. If using canned, opt for whole or crushed San Marzano tomatoes and simmer them down until thickened.

Is this the Meghan Markle pasta?

Yes! This recipe is inspired by the pasta dish Meghan Markle reportedly made with slow-simmered zucchini or tomatoes. This version focuses on cherry tomatoes and spinach, combining her original idea with a one-pan twist that's simple, flavorful, and satisfying.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. Just substitute regular spaghetti with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Keep in mind that some gluten-free varieties absorb more water, so you may need to adjust the liquid and cooking time slightly.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled. Use a larger skillet or sauté pan and be sure to stir often to ensure the pasta cooks evenly and absorbs the sauce without sticking. It's great for serving a crowd or meal prepping for the week.

More Easy Pasta Recipes

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