When the day gets away from you and the last thing you want is a sink full of dishes, this one pot pasta with zucchini and paprika comes through like a charm. It’s the kind of meal that feels both comforting and fresh, with the smoky hint of paprika weaving through tender zucchini and al dente pasta. I remember one evening—somewhere between grabbing the mail and realizing I’d forgotten to eat lunch—when this recipe saved me. The kitchen filled with that warm, inviting scent of sautéed onions and garlic, and I almost forgot I was cooking for one. It’s simple enough to throw together without overthinking, yet satisfying enough that I ended up savoring every bite, even if my mind was still half on my work emails.

There’s something reassuring about a meal that cooks all in one pot. It’s like the kitchen is quietly telling you to slow down, sit for a moment, and enjoy the small pleasures of a good meal. That slight hesitation when tossing in the paprika, wondering if it’ll be too much or just right, only to be delighted by the perfect balance of smoky and sweet flavors. It’s a small, imperfect moment that makes cooking feel alive—not rushed or robotic.

Quick and fuss-free: everything cooks in a single pot, so cleanup is a breeze.
Smoky and fresh: the paprika adds depth but doesn’t overpower the delicate zucchini.
Comforting but light: perfect when you want something filling without feeling heavy.
It’s simple — and that’s kind of the point. No complicated techniques, just honest ingredients.

If you’re someone who often finds yourself staring into the fridge late afternoon wondering what to make, this recipe might just become your go-to. It’s reliable, flavorful, and flexible enough to fit into whatever’s happening in your day.

One Pot Pasta with Zucchini and Paprika

Print Recipe

A quick and flavorful one pot pasta dish featuring tender zucchini and smoky paprika, perfect for a simple weeknight meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4

Ingredients

Scale

12 ounces dried penne pasta
1 medium zucchini, diced
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup canned diced tomatoes with juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
Add minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, and diced zucchini to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables start to soften.
Stir in smoked paprika and sweet paprika, cooking for 1 minute to release the flavors.
Add the dried penne pasta, vegetable broth, canned diced tomatoes with juice, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Remove the pot from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

Don’t worry about fancy equipment here—just a sturdy pot that can handle sautéing and simmering. I usually serve this with a side of crusty bread or a crisp green salad to round out the meal. Sometimes I toss in a handful of spinach or swap the zucchini for summer squash, depending on what’s lingering in the fridge. If you like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes stirred in with the paprika can add a nice kick, but that’s just how I like it; your taste might be different.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely, penne holds up well but feel free to use what you have—just adjust cooking time slightly.

Is this recipe vegan? It’s easy to make vegan by skipping the Parmesan or using a plant-based alternative.

Can I prepare this ahead of time? Leftovers keep well in the fridge for a few days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for that saucy, tender texture.

When you’re ready to give this one pot pasta a try, it’s waiting for you. Just a few simple steps and you’re in for a cozy, delicious dinner with minimal fuss. Go ahead—save this recipe to your board, print it out, and make it your next easy meal night.