On my busiest nights, I reach for simple, flavorful meals that nourish my family without the fuss. Say hello to the ultimate weeknight hero: our One-Pot Shakshuka Recipe with Fresh Tomatoes. Perfect for busy parents and home cooks looking for a wholesome, easy dinner idea without the fuss. This version skips the multiple pans and simplifies steps, making it truly effortless compared to traditional methods. Get ready for a vibrant, savory dish that’s quick to make, easy to clean up, and absolutely delicious for everyone. This One-Pot Shakshuka Recipe with Fresh Tomatoes truly makes healthy eating a breeze.

Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Ingredient Essentials & Flavor Roles
Crafting a delicious One-Pot Shakshuka Recipe with Fresh Tomatoes starts with understanding the role each ingredient plays. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (30ml) – for sautéing our aromatics and building the sauce base.
- 1 large onion (about 200g), diced – provides a foundational sweetness and aroma to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – essential for depth of flavor and a pungent kick.
- 1 red bell pepper (about 150g), diced – adds sweetness, beautiful color, and a boost of vitamin C.
- 1 tsp ground cumin (5g) – gives that earthy, signature warmth characteristic of shakshuka.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (5g) – offers a rich, slightly smoky flavor that truly makes this dish sing.
- 4-5 large fresh tomatoes (about 900g-1kg), diced, or two 14.5 oz (411g) cans diced tomatoes – the juicy, vibrant base for our shakshuka, providing tang and moisture.
- 4-6 large eggs – the star protein, cooking directly in the sauce to create rich, runny yolks that make every bite satisfying.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper – to season and enhance all the flavors.
Highlight premium or better-for-you choices:
- Choose ripe, in-season fresh tomatoes for the best possible flavor in your One-Pot Shakshuka. Their natural sweetness is unmatched.
- Opt for pasture-raised eggs if you can; I find they offer a richer yolk and superior taste.
- Use quality extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it makes a noticeable difference.
Tomato Options: Canned diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes work great if fresh aren’t available.
Veggie Boost: Spinach or kale can be wilted into the sauce for extra greens for a truly healthy meal.
Topping Ideas: Feta or goat cheese can be crumbled on top for a tangy finish.
Flavor boosters and seasonal upgrades:
- A pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick and warmth.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, chopped, for brightness and a pop of color at the end.
- A squeeze of lemon juice at the end to lift all the flavors and add a fresh note.
Easy Preparation Steps
This One-Pot Shakshuka Recipe with Fresh Tomatoes is designed for maximum ease and minimal cleanup, making it one of my favorite easy dinner ideas. Follow these steps for a perfect, hearty meal:
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering. Add 1 diced onion and 2 cloves minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Add 1 diced bell pepper, and continue to cook for another 5 minutes until it starts to soften.
- Build the Sauce: Stir in 1 tsp cumin and 1 tsp paprika, cooking for just 30 seconds until the spices are wonderfully fragrant. This step toasts the spices and deepens their flavor. Then, add your two 14.5 oz (411g) cans of diced tomatoes (or 4-5 large fresh tomatoes, diced). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Add Eggs: Using the back of a spoon, make 4-6 small indentations or ‘wells’ in the simmering tomato sauce. Carefully crack one egg into each well. Cover the skillet tightly with a lid and cook for 8-12 minutes, or until the egg whites are fully set and the yolks are still beautifully runny (or to your preferred doneness, if you like a firmer yolk).
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the pan from heat. Garnish your delicious One-Pot Shakshuka with Fresh Tomatoes generously with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro. Serve hot, directly from the pan, with crusty bread or warm pita for dipping into those glorious yolks. This makes for fantastic family-friendly cooking!
Inline notes for healthy swaps:
- Low-carb: Serve your One-Pot Shakshuka with Fresh Tomatoes with a side of sautéed greens, roasted zucchini, or avocado slices instead of bread for a satisfying low-carb meal.
- Dairy-free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free; just ensure no cheese is added or used as a topping. It’s perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
- High-protein: For an extra protein boost, stir a handful of cooked lentils or cannellini beans into the sauce along with the tomatoes. This makes your One-Pot Shakshuka with Fresh Tomatoes an even heartier meal prep recipe.
Quick reminders for avoiding common mistakes:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – always use a large enough skillet (10-12 inch) or Dutch oven to ensure ingredients cook evenly and the sauce thickens properly.
- Ensure the sauce is simmering gently before adding eggs for uniform cooking and preventing scorching on the bottom.
- Avoid overcooking the eggs if you prefer a perfectly runny yolk. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times can vary based on pan and stove.
Perfect Occasions and Storage
Our One-Pot Shakshuka Recipe with Fresh Tomatoes isn’t just for one meal; it’s incredibly versatile for many dining moments.
- A fantastic weeknight dinner that comes together quickly.
- Perfect for a cozy weekend breakfast or a hearty brunch.
- Satisfying for lunch, served with a simple green salad.
Looking to impress? This dish is a winner for casual gatherings.
- Impress guests with this vibrant and flavorful dish for holiday brunches or casual gatherings.
- Great for potlucks or feeding a crowd, as it looks impressive but is simple to make.
For smart meal planning, here’s how to handle leftovers:
- Leftover One-Pot Shakshuka with Fresh Tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. The eggs may cook further upon reheating.
- Freezing is generally not recommended for the best texture due to the eggs. However, the sauce can be made ahead and frozen.
Nutrition & Everyday Benefits of One-Pot Shakshuka
This vibrant One-Pot Shakshuka Recipe with Fresh Tomatoes is packed with protein from the eggs and a wealth of vitamins from the fresh vegetables, providing sustained energy and a truly nourishing meal for the whole family.
It offers fantastic lifestyle advantages, fitting seamlessly into busy lives:
- Excellent for meal prep – prepare the sauce ahead of time for quick assembly later.
- A balanced, weight-friendly option that’s satisfying without being heavy.
- High-protein for staying full longer, reducing the need for unhealthy snacks.
- Fits well into Mediterranean diet principles, focusing on fresh vegetables and healthy fats.
This dish truly embodies easy family dinners, offers healthy meal ideas, and can even be portioned for high-protein snacks.

How This Recipe Saves Time & Money
This One-Pot Shakshuka Recipe with Fresh Tomatoes is a champion for efficiency and value:
- Uses common, inexpensive pantry staples and fresh produce, making it incredibly budget-friendly for families.
- The one-pot nature of this One-Pot Shakshuka Recipe with Fresh Tomatoes drastically cuts down on washing up time – just one pan to clean!
- Quick to prepare from start to finish (under 30 minutes active time), making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- No fancy equipment required, leveraging items you likely already have in your kitchen.
This recipe is perfect for busy schedules when you need a hearty, flavorful meal without much fuss or effort.
Expert Tips and Adjustments
Elevate your One-Pot Shakshuka with these simple techniques:
- Sauté the spices briefly (30 seconds) before adding the tomatoes to toast them and deepen their flavor.
- For an extra rich and smoky sauce, consider roasting your fresh tomatoes in the oven briefly before adding them to the pan; it’s a little trick I sometimes use.
Tailor the dish to your preference:
- Adjust spice levels to your taste – add more chili for heat, or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Cook eggs to your preferred doneness, from beautifully runny yolks to fully set, by adjusting the cooking time.
This recipe is incredibly flexible for various needs:
- Allergy-friendly: This One-Pot Shakshuka with Fresh Tomatoes is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free if no cheese is added.
- Kid-friendly: Reduce or omit chili flakes. Serve with fun dippers like pita bread or veggie sticks to encourage little eaters.
- Diet-based: Add cannellini beans or chickpeas to the sauce for extra fiber and plant-based protein. Serve with a sprinkle of low-fat feta for flavor.
Common Questions Answered
Can One-Pot Shakshuka fit into a meal prep plan?
Yes! You can prepare the tomato sauce base for your One-Pot Shakshuka with Fresh Tomatoes ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat the sauce gently and crack in the eggs.
What are the best substitutes for fresh tomatoes in this One-Pot Shakshuka recipe?
If fresh tomatoes aren’t in season or available, high-quality canned diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes are excellent substitutes. Use about two 14.5 oz cans for this One-Pot Shakshuka Recipe with Fresh Tomatoes to achieve the right consistency and flavor.
How long does One-Pot Shakshuka stay fresh in the fridge?
Cooked One-Pot Shakshuka with Fresh Tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While the eggs might cook further upon reheating, the flavors will still be delicious.
Can I add meat to this One-Pot Shakshuka recipe?
Absolutely! For an even heartier meal, brown some ground lamb, beef, or turkey with the onions and peppers before adding the tomatoes. This will make your One-Pot Shakshuka with Fresh Tomatoes even more filling and satisfying.
What do you serve with One-Pot Shakshuka?
One-Pot Shakshuka is fantastic with crusty bread or warm pita bread for dipping into the rich yolks and savory sauce. You can also serve it with a side of fluffy couscous or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Is this One-Pot Shakshuka recipe spicy?
This One-Pot Shakshuka Recipe with Fresh Tomatoes can be as spicy or mild as you like! The recipe typically includes a little paprika for warmth. You can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or omit them entirely for a milder version suitable for all palates.
Conclusion
Embrace the ease and deliciousness of this One-Pot Shakshuka Recipe with Fresh Tomatoes, proving that healthy, flavorful family meals don’t need endless pots and pans. Pin this recipe for your next busy weeknight or share it with a friend looking for simple, hearty home cooking! I hope this becomes a staple in your kitchen.
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One-Pot Shakshuka Recipe with Fresh Tomatoes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This One-Pot Shakshuka with fresh tomatoes is a vibrant, easy weeknight dinner. It’s wholesome, quick to make, and simplifies steps for minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (30ml)
- 1 large onion (about 200g), diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper (about 150g), diced
- 1 tsp ground cumin (5g)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (5g)
- 4–5 large fresh tomatoes (about 900g-1kg), diced, or two 14.5 oz (411g) cans diced tomatoes
- 4–6 large eggs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering. Add 1 diced onion and 2 cloves minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Add 1 diced bell pepper, and continue to cook for another 5 minutes until it starts to soften.
- Build the Sauce: Stir in 1 tsp cumin and 1 tsp paprika, cooking for just 30 seconds until the spices are wonderfully fragrant. Then, add your two 14.5 oz (411g) cans of diced tomatoes (or 4-5 large fresh tomatoes, diced). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Add Eggs: Using the back of a spoon, make 4-6 small indentations or ‘wells’ in the simmering tomato sauce. Carefully crack one egg into each well. Cover the skillet tightly with a lid and cook for 8-12 minutes, or until the egg whites are fully set and the yolks are still beautifully runny (or to your preferred doneness, if you like a firmer yolk).
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the pan from heat. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro. Serve hot, directly from the pan, with crusty bread or warm pita for dipping into those glorious yolks.
Notes
Ingredient Tips:
- Choose ripe, in-season fresh tomatoes for the best flavor. Canned diced or crushed tomatoes work great if fresh aren’t available.
- Opt for pasture-raised eggs for richer yolks and superior taste.
- Use quality extra virgin olive oil for sautéing.
Customization & Boosters:
- Veggie Boost: Spinach or kale can be wilted into the sauce for extra greens.
- Topping Ideas: Feta or goat cheese can be crumbled on top for a tangy finish (note: this will make it not dairy-free).
- Flavor Boosters: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, fresh parsley or cilantro for brightness, or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end to lift all flavors.
- High-Protein: For an extra protein boost, stir a handful of cooked lentils or cannellini beans into the sauce.
Healthy Swaps & Dietary Notes:
- Low-Carb: Serve with sautéed greens, roasted zucchini, or avocado slices instead of bread.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free; ensure no cheese is added or used as a topping.
Cooking Reminders:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; use a large enough skillet (10-12 inch) or Dutch oven.
- Ensure the sauce is simmering gently before adding eggs for uniform cooking.
- Avoid overcooking eggs if you prefer a runny yolk.
*Nutritional data is an estimate as it was not provided in the original article.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 200mg