This one pot curry pasta is cozy, creamy, a little spicy, and so simple that it instantly becomes a weeknight favorite. Everything cooks in one pot, even the pasta, which means fewer dishes and more time forโฆ well, literally anything else.
This recipe gives you that warm curry flavor without being overpowering, and the sauce clings perfectly to every noodle. It's one of those meals that looks like you tried but secretly took almost no effort. My kind of cooking.
For another variation of the recipe make sure to try my Creamy Coconut Curry Pasta.
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The ingredients
Red onion - Adds sweetness and depth once sautรฉed.
Garlic cloves - Fresh garlic gives the curry sauce its base flavor.
Olive oil - Just enough to soften the onions and toast the spices.
Vegetable or chicken broth - Either works; chicken gives a richer flavor.
Curry powder - Mild or medium depending on your heat preference.
Fresh ginger - Bright, warm, and essential for a good curry profile.
Salt & black pepper - Seasoning layers matter in a one-pot recipe.
Pasta - Penne, rotini, or spaghetti all work beautifully.
Frozen peas - They brighten the dish and add a pop of color.
Heavy cream - Makes the sauce silky and smooth.
Fresh cilantro - For a fresh finishing touch.
For the ingredients quantities go to the recipe card below
Steps-by-step Instructions for the Curry Pasta
1. Sautรฉ the aromatics
Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the red onion and cook 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
2. Add the curry flavor
Sprinkle in the curry powder and toss it with the onions. Let it toast for a moment to deepen its flavor.
3. Add broth and pasta
Pour in the broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil. Add the uncooked pasta directly into the pot. Lower the heat and simmer uncovered for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add peas and cream
When the pasta is almost done and most of the liquid has absorbed, stir in the peas. Cook 2 minutes, then add the cream and gently stir until the sauce thickens.
5. Finish and serve
Taste, adjust seasoning if needed, and garnish with cilantro. Serve warm and enjoy that creamy curry goodness.
Tips for Success
- Toast the curry powder for deeper flavor. Just 20-30 seconds makes a big difference.
- Stir occasionally so the pasta cooks evenly and doesn't stick to the bottom.
- Use a large pot because the pasta expands as it cooks.
- Adjust the heat by choosing mild or medium curry powder.
Variations
- Add chicken: Stir in cooked shredded chicken or rotisserie chicken at the end.
- Make it vegetarian: Keep it as-is or add chickpeas for extra protein.
- Swap the pasta: Try bowties, shells, or even whole wheat.
- Make it dairy-free: Use coconut milk instead of cream for a delicious twist.
Serving Ideas
- Serve with warm naan or crusty bread.
- Add a quick cucumber salad on the side for freshness.
- Top with a squeeze of lime for brightness.
Storage
Freezer: Not ideal because pasta softens too much once thawed.
Fridge: 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Reheat: Add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
FAQ
Yes! Coconut milk makes it extra creamy and gives a slightly sweeter curry note.
Absolutely. Spinach, carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini all work well.
Short pasta shapes cook more evenly in one-pot recipes, but spaghetti works if you stir it more often.
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One Pot Curry Pasta
Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Knife + cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 red onion chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 ยฝ cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon curry powder mild or medium
- 2 teaspoon fresh ginger minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ยฝ teaspoon black pepper
- 10 oz pasta penne, rotini, or spaghetti
- 1 cup frozen peas
- ยฝ cup heavy cream
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large pot. Sautรฉ red onion 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and ginger.
- Add curry powder and toast lightly.
- Pour in broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil. Add pasta.
- Simmer 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add peas, cook 2 minutes, then stir in cream until thickened.
- Garnish with cilantro and serve warm.
Notes
- Toasting the curry powder brings out deeper flavor.
- Add more broth if the pasta absorbs liquid too quickly.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half.
- Coconut milk is a great dairy-free swap.
Sophie Viau says
This one pot curry pasta is a cozy, creamy weeknight dinner made with simple ingredients and warm curry flavor. The pasta cooks right in the broth, so everything comes together in one pot with almost no cleanup. Itโs quick, satisfying, and full of gentle spice, perfect for busy nights.