Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One Pot Spaghetti is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need a hearty, comforting meal with minimal cleanup. Everything cooks in a single pot—pasta, sauce, and seasonings—making this dish not only quick and easy but also incredibly flavorful as the noodles soak up all the delicious spices and juices while simmering. Ideal for families or solo dinners, this is a no-fuss classic you’ll turn to again and again.

ingredients

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

spaghetti noodlesolive oilground beef or Italian sausongarliconioncrushed tomatoestomato pastebeef or vegetable brothItalian seasoningdried basilsaltpepperred pepper flakes (optional)grated Parmesan cheesefresh parsley or basil (for garnish)

directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add ground beef or sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

Stir in chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.

Add tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Pour in crushed tomatoes and broth, then stir in Italian seasoning, dried basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Break spaghetti noodles in half and add them to the pot, pressing them down so they’re submerged in the liquid.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.

Cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is cooked al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Top with grated Parmesan and chopped parsley or basil.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesResting time: 5 minutesTotal time: 35 minutes

Variations

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version.

Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra veggies.

Use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti if preferred.

Add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end for a creamy twist.

Use crushed fire-roasted tomatoes for a smokier flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.Freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, just adjust the liquid and cooking time as needed based on the pasta type.

Does the pasta get mushy?

No, as long as you stir occasionally and don’t overcook, the pasta stays nicely al dente.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! It reheats well and even tastes better the next day.

Do I have to use meat?

No, you can make this fully vegetarian by omitting the meat and using vegetable broth.

What if I don’t have broth?

Water works too, but broth adds more flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just be sure to use a larger pot and adjust cooking time slightly.

How do I keep pasta from sticking?

Stir a few times during cooking and ensure enough liquid is in the pot.

Can I make this spicy?

Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.

What cheese works best?

Parmesan is traditional, but mozzarella or Pecorino Romano are great too.

Can I add wine?

Yes, add ¼ cup red wine when adding the tomato paste for depth of flavor.

Conclusion

One Pot Spaghetti is a lifesaver for anyone looking to cook a quick, delicious meal with minimal cleanup. It brings together all the cozy flavors of a traditional pasta dinner in a streamlined way. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want leftovers for the week, this one-pot wonder checks every box.