One-Pot Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

If you’re craving a vibrant, satisfying meal that comes together with minimal fuss, you’re in for a treat with One-Pot Shrimp and Tomato Pasta. This dish is a perfect balance of succulent shrimp, juicy cherry tomatoes, and al dente spaghetti, all simmered in a flavorful broth infused with garlic, onion, and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes. The best part? It all cooks in one pot, saving you time on cleanup and letting you enjoy more of your evening. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or impressing guests with something quick yet delicious, this recipe is a keeper.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

There are so many reasons this One-Pot Shrimp and Tomato Pasta will become a staple in your kitchen. First, it’s incredibly time-efficient—no multiple pots or pans to juggle. The shrimp cooks quickly, and the pasta absorbs all those rich, garlicky flavors directly in the broth. Plus, it’s versatile; you can easily tweak the spice level or swap in different herbs depending on your mood. It’s fresh, light, and comforting all at once, making it perfect for any season. And let’s not forget: the vibrant red tomatoes and bright basil make it as pretty as it is tasty. If you love dishes like Creamy Tomato Garlic Shrimp Pasta, this one-pot version is a fantastic way to enjoy similar flavors with less effort.

What You’ll Gather

• 12 oz spaghetti – long, slender pasta that cooks perfectly in the broth.
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined – the star protein, tender and quick-cooking.
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved – bursting with sweetness that balances the savory elements.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – aromatic and essential for that garlicky punch.
• 1 medium onion, diced – adds depth and sweetness as it cooks down.
• 4 cups vegetable broth – the flavorful liquid base that cooks the pasta and infuses everything.
• 3 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing and adding richness.
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes – for a subtle kick of heat, adjustable to your taste.
• Salt and pepper to taste – essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together.
• Fresh basil, for garnish – bright, fragrant, and the perfect finishing touch.

Appliances & Accessories

• Large deep skillet or wide pot – to accommodate all ingredients comfortably.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Chef’s knife – to prep your garlic, onion, and tomatoes.
• Cutting board – for safe and easy chopping.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to keep the flavor balance just right.
• Colander (optional) – if you prefer to rinse your shrimp before cooking.

One-Pot Shrimp and Tomato Pasta: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by peeling and deveining your shrimp if not already done. Halve the cherry tomatoes, mince the garlic, and dice the onion. Having everything ready before you start cooking makes the process smooth and stress-free.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil over medium heat in your large skillet or pot. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent and slightly golden, about 4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes to release their juices. Pour in the vegetable broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the spaghetti right into the boiling broth. Press it down gently so it’s submerged. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and cook until the pasta is al dente, about 9-11 minutes depending on your pasta brand. The pasta will absorb the broth and become infused with all those lovely flavors.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

When the pasta is nearly done, nestle the shrimp into the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes, turning them once midway, until they’re pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook or they’ll become rubbery.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat and stir gently to combine. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and herbaceous aroma. Serve immediately for best flavor.

If You’re Out Of…

• Cherry tomatoes: Use grape tomatoes or even halved regular tomatoes for a similar effect.
• Vegetable broth: Substitute with chicken broth or a mix of water and bouillon cubes for added flavor.
• Red pepper flakes: Try a pinch of cayenne pepper or omit entirely for a milder dish.
• Fresh basil: Swap with fresh parsley or oregano if basil isn’t available.

Problems & Prevention

Sticky pasta can be a common hiccup in one-pot recipes. Make sure to stir often enough, especially in the first few minutes after adding the pasta. Using a wide pot gives the pasta room to cook evenly. Overcooked shrimp is another pitfall—add them toward the end and keep a close eye on their color to avoid toughness. Lastly, if your broth reduces too much before the pasta is cooked, add a splash of water to maintain enough liquid for proper cooking.

Storage & Reheat Guide

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent drying out. This pasta doesn’t freeze well as the texture of the shrimp and tomatoes can change, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the pot, which can affect the texture of your pasta and sauce.

What if I want this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the broth. You could also toss in some sliced fresh chili peppers with the garlic and onion for an extra kick.

Can I substitute the spaghetti for another type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use linguine, fettuccine, or penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta’s package instructions. If you love pasta and shrimp combos, you might want to check out the Garlic Butter Shrimp Penne for another delicious variation.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

It can work for meal prep if you’re okay with reheating pasta and shrimp. Keep the pasta slightly undercooked if you plan to reheat, so it doesn’t get mushy. However, for the freshest experience, enjoy it the day you make it.

Weekend Projects

• Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine – a zesty, buttery pasta that’s perfect for a leisurely weekend dinner.
• Creamy Tomato Garlic Shrimp Pasta – if you want to indulge in a rich, creamy twist on tomato and shrimp pasta.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp Penne – a quick and flavorful penne pasta with a buttery garlic sauce.

Let’s Eat

Now that your One-Pot Shrimp and Tomato Pasta is ready, plate it up with a sprinkle of fresh basil and maybe a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Pair it with a crisp green salad or warm crusty bread to soak up any remaining sauce. This dish shines when served immediately, with the shrimp tender and the pasta perfectly infused with garlicky tomato goodness. It’s a meal that’s both simple and sophisticated—ideal for when you want something satisfying without a long list of steps or dishes. Enjoy every flavorful bite!

With just one pot and a handful of ingredients, you’ve created a dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors and perfect textures. The shrimp adds a lovely protein punch while the tomatoes bring brightness and juiciness. The garlic and onion base, lifted by red pepper flakes and fresh basil, rounds out a meal that’s both quick and impressive. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend supper, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. Happy cooking!

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