10-Minute Comfort Food Pasta: A Quick and Cozy Weeknight Dinner
Some evenings call for simplicity.
When the day has been long and energy is low, a fast, warm meal can feel like a small act of self-care. This 10-minute comfort food pasta is designed for exactly those moments. It relies on everyday pantry items and frozen vegetables, comes together quickly, and delivers the kind of cozy satisfaction that feels far more indulgent than the effort involved.
It is the kind of recipe that works whether you are cooking for yourself, feeding family, or simply trying to avoid another night of takeout.
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Why this pasta works so well
This recipe succeeds because it balances speed, simplicity, and flavor.
Pasta provides warmth and comfort.
Tomatoes add richness and acidity.
Garlic and olive oil build a savory base.
Frozen vegetables add texture and nutrition without extra prep.
Everything comes together in one skillet once the pasta is cooked, making cleanup just as easy as cooking.
Ingredients
Serves: 2 to 3
- 8 ounces pasta, such as penne, fusilli, or any shape you prefer
- 1 can diced tomatoes with juice, 14 ounces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Optional toppings:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, torn
- Red pepper flakes for gentle heat
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, tender but still firm.
Drain and set aside.
Time-saving tip: Begin the sauce while the pasta cooks to keep the total time close to 10 minutes.
Step 2: Gently sauté the garlic
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and stir constantly for about one minute, just until fragrant.
Do not let the garlic brown, as this can make the sauce taste bitter.
Step 3: Add tomatoes and vegetables
Pour the diced tomatoes, including their juices, into the skillet. Stir to combine with the garlic and oil.
Let the mixture simmer for two to three minutes so the flavors begin to blend.
Add the frozen vegetables directly to the pan. Stir gently, cover, and cook for another three to four minutes, until the vegetables are tender and heated through.
Step 4: Combine pasta and sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss gently until the pasta is evenly coated with the tomato and vegetable mixture.
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If you like a little warmth, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Step 5: Serve and finish
Divide the pasta among bowls or plates. Top with grated Parmesan and fresh basil if using.
Serve immediately while warm and comforting.
Helpful tips for best results
Use what you have.
Any pasta shape works, and frozen vegetables can be swapped based on preference or availability.
Do not overcook the pasta.
Al dente pasta holds its texture better and reheats more nicely if you save leftovers.
Adjust the seasoning at the end.
Canned tomatoes vary in saltiness, so tasting before serving makes a difference.
Easy ways to add protein
If you want to make the dish more filling, add one of the following:
- Cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- Cooked shrimp, added during the final minute to warm through
- Canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed, stirred in with the vegetables
These additions turn the pasta into a complete one-bowl meal without adding much time.
Make-ahead and storage
This pasta keeps well for quick lunches or dinners.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave
- Add a small splash of water if the sauce thickens during storage
Why this recipe becomes a favorite
It is fast without feeling rushed.
It is simple without being bland.
It uses ingredients most people already have.
It delivers warmth and comfort when it is needed most.
This is not fancy food. It is dependable food. The kind of meal that meets you where you are on a busy evening and still feels satisfying.
Sometimes the best dinners are the ones that ask very little and give a lot in return.
