If you’re looking for a fuss-free, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug from your favorite Italian nonna, this Easy One Pot Spaghetti Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Combining savory ground meat, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a rich marinara sauce all in one pot, it delivers big on flavor without the usual mess of multiple pans. Whether you’re craving a comforting dinner after a long day or planning a family meal that pleases everyone at the table, this recipe hits all the right spots with ease and deliciousness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential to creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in your Easy One Pot Spaghetti Recipe. Each item plays its own role—from the aromatic onion and garlic that build the base, to the savory ground beef and zesty seasonings that bring depth, finishing with the bright Parmesan and herbs that add a fresh touch.
- 12 oz spaghetti: Choose your favorite variety; breaking it in half helps it fit better in the pot.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing onions and garlic, adding richness without heaviness.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds savory sweetness and a subtle crunch when cooked just right.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings that classic Italian aroma and piquant flavor that wakes up the dish.
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage: Provides hearty, juicy meatiness that’s the star protein here.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors—don’t skip it!
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a little bite to balance richer ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that ties together the Mediterranean essence.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick, spice lovers will appreciate this touch.
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce: The tomato base that brings sweetness, acidity, and color.
- 3 cups water or beef broth: Helps cook the pasta while infusing extra flavor if you choose broth.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Stirred in at the end for creamy, tangy finishing notes.
- Chopped parsley or basil for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, herbaceous brightness to the final dish.
How to Make Easy One Pot Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Brown the Meat
Start by heating the olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your finely chopped onion and cook it until it softens and turns translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes – this step brings out that natural sweetness that’s key to a balanced sauce. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds more to avoid burning but release its signature fragrance. Next, add ground beef or Italian sausage, breaking it apart with your spoon as it browns evenly. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes until there’s no pink left, then drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Season and Combine
Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. This seasoning blend infuses every bite with classic Italian flair and a hint of warmth from the red pepper. Break the spaghetti in half if needed to fit it into the pot, then add it to the meat mixture along with the whole jar of marinara sauce and your chosen liquid – water or beef broth. Gently stir everything together, making sure the pasta is submerged and evenly coated.
Step 3: Simmer to Perfection
Bring your pot to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover it. Let the pasta cook for about 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This simmering time allows the noodles to absorb the flavorful sauce while softening to tender perfection. The liquid should mostly be absorbed at the end, leaving behind a rich coating clinging to each strand of spaghetti.
Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Rest
Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened, remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. This addition brings a luscious creaminess and a sharp, salty punch that rounds out the dish beautifully. Let your masterpiece rest for 2 to 3 minutes before serving—this short pause lets all the flavors meld together seamlessly for an irresistible final dish.
How to Serve Easy One Pot Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil is a lovely way to add vibrant green color and fresh herbal notes to this rich, hearty dish. Some extra Parmesan grated on top never fails to delight and make every bite feel special. For an added touch of texture, a drizzle of good quality olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add exciting layers of flavor.
Side Dishes
This easy one pot spaghetti pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices are classic companions, perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers also add a healthy, colorful contrast that balances the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this spaghetti in deep bowls and offer an array of toppings such as additional grated cheese, chopped olives, or a spoonful of ricotta. You could even turn leftovers into a baked pasta casserole by transferring it to a baking dish, sprinkling extra cheese on top, and baking until bubbly and golden. Making it your own like this keeps every meal exciting!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Easy One Pot Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 to 4 days, making it a perfect meal for quick reheats during busy weekdays. The flavors often deepen overnight, so the next day’s portion can taste even better.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, portion the spaghetti into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the texture pleasant and avoid dried-out pasta.
Reheating
Reheat your Easy One Pot Spaghetti gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce as needed. You can also use a microwave, heating in short intervals and stirring in between to warm evenly without drying out. This method helps keep the pasta tender and the sauce creamy.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ground beef or sausage for plant-based meat alternatives or simply use extra vegetables like mushrooms and spinach to keep it hearty and flavorful.
Is it okay to use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can use whole wheat, gluten-free, or other pasta types. Just keep in mind that cooking times and liquid absorption may vary slightly depending on the pasta you choose.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No problem. You can mix your own blend using dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary, or just stick with salt, pepper, and garlic for a simpler flavor.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Adding chopped spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers during the cooking process boosts the nutrition and adds fresh flavor and texture.
How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add only a subtle heat that you can easily adjust or omit altogether based on your spice preference.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, this Easy One Pot Spaghetti Recipe is the kind of comforting, flavorful dish that quickly becomes a household favorite. It’s quick enough for weeknights, flexible enough for your kitchen creativity, and delicious enough to serve to guests without any fuss. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the delicious simplicity of a one-pot meal that satisfies every time.
Print
Easy One Pot Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
This Easy One Pot Spaghetti recipe is a hassle-free, flavorful Italian-American dinner that combines ground beef or sausage, aromatic vegetables, and spaghetti all cooked together in a single pan. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers a rich marinara sauce infused with Italian seasonings and a creamy finish of Parmesan cheese, making it a wholesome, family-friendly meal with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Spaghetti and Sauce
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
- 3 cups water or beef broth
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
Seasonings and Garnishes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its fragrance.
- Cook the Meat: Stir in the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pan to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Season and Add Pasta: Season the meat mixture with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you are using them. Add the dry spaghetti (breaking it in half if necessary to fit) along with the marinara sauce and water or beef broth. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Spaghetti: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet or Dutch oven, and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and cook until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and create a creamy texture. Let the pasta rest for 2 to 3 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and extra Parmesan cheese if desired for an added burst of flavor and freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- Add chopped spinach or mushrooms along with the onion for extra vegetables and nutrition.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes according to your taste.
- Use beef broth instead of water for a richer flavor.
- For gluten-free pasta, substitute the spaghetti with a gluten-free variety and adjust cooking times accordingly.
