One Pot Salmon Pasta: Easiest Weeknight Dinner EVER!

December 28, 2025

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One pot salmon pasta is the ultimate weeknight meal, combining convenience and deliciousness in a way that feels both comforting and elegant. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity: everything cooks together in one pot, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor. From my grandmother’s kitchen, where resourcefulness was an art, to my own busy life, this kind of recipe is just as vital. Today, I share a creamy, flavorful one pot salmon pasta that’s sure to become a family favorite. After all, who doesn’t adore a quick, delicious dish that brings everyone to the table? This recipe will be your next convenient dinner solution!

Why You Will Love This one pot salmon pasta Recipe

This one pot salmon pasta recipe is a lifesaver on hectic evenings when you crave a home cooked meal without the fuss. Its appeal lies in its comfort, speed, and incredible flavor. Remember those nights when dinner felt like a chore? This recipe turns it into a joy. The creamy sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and tender salmon create a symphony of tastes that satisfies both your palate and your busy schedule. Think of this as a warm hug on a plate, ready in under 30 minutes! Plus, imagine the joy of a clean kitchen with only one pot to wash. If you love our recipe for a quick week night meal, then you might also want to check out our One Pot Turkey Stew!

Ingredients Needed for This one pot salmon pasta Recipe

Gather these simple ingredients to create your magical one pot salmon pasta:

1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle work well)
1.5 pounds salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 1 inch pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
1/4 cup heavy cream

How to Make This one pot salmon pasta Recipe

Follow these easy steps to create your delicious one pot salmon pasta:

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the chicken broth and milk to the pot. Bring to a boil.
Stir in the pasta and ensure it is fully submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for the time indicated on the pasta package, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Be mindful, for perfect pasta, don't overcook!

After the pasta has cooked for about 10 minutes, gently stir in the salmon pieces. Ensure they are distributed evenly throughout the pasta.
Continue to simmer, covered, for another 8 to 10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The sauce should be slightly thickened and creamy.
Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Here's a pro tip: taste test and add more parmesan if needed!
If you desire a richer, creamier sauce, stir in the heavy cream. Otherwise, it is perfectly delicious without it!

Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired. Enjoy your convenient, flavourful bowl of one pot salmon pasta! If you need another convenient recipe you can also try our amazing recipe for One Pot Turkey Tacos!

How to Serve This one pot salmon pasta Recipe

Serve your one pot salmon pasta hot and fresh for the best experience.

Here are some serving tips:

Garnish: Top with extra Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a pop of color and flavor.
Side Dishes: Pair it with a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette or some crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the salmon and creamy sauce beautifully.
Plating: For an elegant presentation, twirl the pasta onto plates using tongs and arrange the salmon pieces on top, drizzle with sauce, and garnish.

How to Store This one pot salmon pasta Recipe

Proper storage ensures that your leftover one pot salmon pasta remains delicious.

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the pasta and salmon are fully cooled before refrigerating.
Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the pasta may become mushy and the sauce can separate upon thawing.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Microwave reheating is also an option, but be careful not to overheat the salmon.

Tips to Make This one pot salmon pasta Recipe

Here are some helpful tips to ensure success with your one pot salmon pasta:

Pasta Choice: Use pasta shapes that cook evenly, such as penne, rotini, or farfalle. Avoid delicate pastas like angel hair, which can become mushy.
Salmon Quality: Opt for fresh, high quality salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture. Frozen salmon can be used, but ensure it is fully thawed before cooking.
Liquid Ratio: Adjust the amount of liquid (chicken broth and milk) depending on your desired sauce consistency. Less liquid will result in a thicker sauce.
Cooking Time: Watch the pasta and salmon closely to prevent overcooking. The salmon should be just cooked through and the pasta al dente.

Helpful Notes for This one pot salmon pasta Recipe

A few additional notes to keep in mind for an even better one pot salmon pasta experience:

Broth Options: While chicken broth is recommended, vegetable broth can also be used for a vegetarian friendly version.
Garlic Lovers: Feel free to add an extra clove of garlic for a more intense garlic flavor.
Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest along with the lemon juice for an extra burst of citrus flavor. Grilled Salmon Pasta 2 is another option for a salmon recipe, if you prefer a little more prep.
Cheese Variations: Try using a blend of Parmesan and Romano cheese for a richer, more complex flavor.

Variation of This one pot salmon pasta Recipe

Get creative with your one pot salmon pasta! Here are a few variations to try:

Vegetable Boost: Add vegetables like peas, asparagus, or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
Smoked Salmon: Substitute fresh salmon with smoked salmon for a smoky flavour. Add it during the last few minutes of cooking so it doesnt dry out.
Creamy Pesto Salmon Pasta: Add a dollop of pesto to turn this into a creamy pesto salmon pasta dish that's full of flavour!

FAQs About This one pot salmon pasta Recipe

Q: Can I use frozen salmon instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Be sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the pot. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Q: Can I make this recipe dairy free? A: Absolutely! Use a dairy free milk alternative like almond milk or oat milk, and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy free Parmesan substitute.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can use other short pasta shapes like rotini, shells, or macaroni. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Conclusion

This creamy one pot salmon pasta is a simple, flavorful meal that brings joy to both the cook and the eaters. It’s a testament to how uncomplicated food can create memories. Follow the recipe, experiment with variations, and make it your own. Most importantly, gather around the table and share this homemade goodness with the people you love. I hope you enjoy this dish that will quickly become a favorite one pot salmon pasta in your house! Follow us on Pinterest for more easy and delicious recipes!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of cooking pasta in one pot?

Cooking pasta in one pot means less cleanup and more flavor! The pasta absorbs the starch and flavor from the other ingredients as it cooks, resulting in a creamier and more flavorful dish.

Can I use a different type of salmon for one pot salmon pasta?

Yes, you can substitute with your favorite type of salmon. Sockeye, Coho, and even canned salmon work well. Adjust cooking time according to thickness.

How can I make one pot salmon pasta creamy?

Adding a little cream cheese, heavy cream or even a dollop of Greek yogurt at the end will make one pot salmon pasta extra creamy. Stir it in gently after the pasta is cooked and just before serving.