Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One Pot Spaghetti is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution—quick, comforting, and made with minimal cleanup. Everything cooks together in a single pot, including the pasta, sauce, and seasonings, creating a rich, flavorful dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a fuss-free meal.

ingredients

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

spaghettiground beef (or Italian sausage)oniongarliccrushed tomatoes (canned)tomato pasteolive oilItalian seasoningred pepper flakes (optional)salt and pepperwater or brothgrated Parmesan cheesefresh basil (optional, for garnish)

directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, then stir in minced garlic.

Add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

Pour in water or broth, then add the dry spaghetti, making sure it’s submerged.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Cook until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened, about 12-15 minutes.

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning if needed.

Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences.

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

Swap beef for ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives.

Stir in a splash of cream or cream cheese at the end for a creamy tomato sauce.

Top with mozzarella and broil briefly for a baked spaghetti twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, but cooking times may vary. Stick to similar-sized pasta for best results.

Why does everything cook in one pot?

Cooking the pasta in the sauce allows it to absorb flavor and release starch, thickening the sauce naturally.

Do I need to stir often?

Yes, stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking together or to the pot.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely—just skip the meat or replace it with plant-based alternatives.

Can I add cheese to the sauce?

Yes, Parmesan, ricotta, or cream cheese can add creaminess and flavor.

What kind of pot should I use?

A large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven works best to distribute heat evenly.

How can I make it spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook them down longer to achieve the same rich sauce consistency.

Do I need to cover the pot while cooking?

No, simmer uncovered so the sauce reduces and thickens properly.

How do I know when the pasta is done?

Taste a strand; it should be tender but still have a slight bite (al dente).

Conclusion

One Pot Spaghetti is the perfect combination of convenience and flavor, delivering a hearty meal with minimal mess. Whether you’re short on time or just not in the mood for a pile of dishes, this dish will quickly become a go-to in your dinner rotation. Cozy, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable—what’s not to love?