One Pot Spaghetti Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One Pot Spaghetti is a quick and convenient dish that brings all the classic Italian flavors you love with minimal cleanup. Everything—from the pasta to the sauce—cooks together in one pot, absorbing rich flavors and creating a perfectly saucy, satisfying meal. Ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time, this recipe delivers comfort food with ease.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

spaghetti noodlesground beef (or Italian sausage)oniongarliccrushed tomatoes (canned)tomato pasteolive oilItalian seasoningdried basilred pepper flakes (optional)water or broth (chicken or vegetable)salt and peppergrated Parmesan cheesefresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.

Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Mix in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, basil, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.

Add uncooked spaghetti noodles and pour in enough water or broth to just cover the pasta.

Season with salt and pepper, then bring the mixture to a boil.

Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Cook until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened to your liking.

Remove from heat, stir in grated Parmesan cheese, and let sit for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter version.

Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.

Swap spaghetti with linguine, penne, or gluten-free pasta.

Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta for a creamier sauce.

Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, omit the meat and add more vegetables or plant-based alternatives.

Can I use jarred pasta sauce instead of crushed tomatoes?

Absolutely, just adjust seasoning accordingly.

Will the pasta overcook?

As long as you stir occasionally and don’t over-simmer, the pasta should cook perfectly al dente.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger pot and increase liquid proportionally.

Can I make it spicy?

Yes, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.

Is it okay to use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?

Yes, just monitor the cooking time, as it may vary.

Should I cover the pot while cooking?

Yes, but leave a slight gap for steam to escape and avoid boiling over.

How do I keep it from sticking?

Stir occasionally while it cooks, especially during the first few minutes.

Can I add cheese on top?

Definitely—mozzarella, Parmesan, or even provolone work great.

What if I run out of broth?

Water works just fine—just taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Conclusion

One Pot Spaghetti is your answer to a hearty, flavorful meal without the hassle of multiple dishes. With just a single pot and pantry staples, you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in half an hour. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is a go-to for simple, satisfying comfort food.

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