There’s something so satisfying about a meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day. This one pot paprika pasta hits that spot perfectly—rich, creamy, and just a little smoky from those paprika spices. I remember the first time I made it, the kitchen smelled like a cozy little bistro, and I was halfway distracted by an overly curious cat weaving between my ankles. Somehow, the timing was off by a minute or two, but the pasta still turned out tender and indulgent. It’s a dish that doesn’t demand perfection, which is probably why it’s become my go-to on hectic evenings.

The way the paprika blends with the garlic and onions fills the air with an inviting aroma that makes it hard not to sneak a taste before dinner is even plated. I usually let it simmer just a tad longer than the recipe suggests, stirring gently, watching as the sauce thickens and the pasta soaks up all that flavor. When it’s done, a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds that bright note, balancing the creamy sauce with a touch of green freshness. It’s simple comfort food that somehow feels special.

All cooked in one pot—minimal cleanup for when you’re already running on empty.
The creamy sauce is indulgent but comes together quickly, so no need for fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen.
It’s simple—and that’s kind of the point. No complicated steps or weird techniques.
The smoky paprika and a hint of crushed red pepper give it just enough kick to keep things interesting without overwhelming.

And if you’re worried about leftovers, this pasta holds up well in the fridge, making it easy to enjoy again the next day—though it rarely lasts that long in my house.

One Pot Paprika Pasta

Print Recipe

A creamy, flavorful one pot paprika pasta that’s quick and easy to make, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup.

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

Ingredients

Scale

12 ounces penne pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon sweet paprika
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup canned diced tomatoes with juices
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent.
Add the minced garlic, sweet paprika, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to release the spices’ aroma.
Pour in the vegetable broth and canned diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir to combine.
Add the penne pasta to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 12-15 minutes.
Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and well combined.
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Cooking this one pot wonder doesn’t require anything special—just a decent sized pot and a good wooden spoon to stir. I usually serve it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to help soak up the sauce. Sometimes, I’ve tried swapping penne for fusilli or rigatoni, but honestly, I haven’t tested all pasta shapes equally; the penne seems to hold the sauce just right. Adding a handful of sautéed mushrooms or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts gives it a nice texture boost, though it’s just as satisfying on its own.

FAQ

Can I make this vegan? You can swap the cream and cheese for plant-based alternatives, though the flavor will shift a bit and might not be quite as rich.

What if I don’t have smoked paprika? Regular sweet paprika will still work, just missing that smoky depth.

Is it okay to add protein? Sure, cooked chicken or sausage can be stirred in, but I usually enjoy it as a comforting vegetarian meal.

Ready to try a pasta that’s both easy and full of flavor? Save this recipe for your next weeknight dinner and enjoy a fuss-free, creamy meal that feels like a little celebration in one pot.