One Pot Spaghetti: The Ultimate 30-Minute Weeknight Dinner

This one pot spaghetti recipe will revolutionize your weeknight dinner routine! Imagine juicy ground beef, aromatic onions, and fragrant garlic all simmering together in a rich tomato sauce – and the best part? The uncooked spaghetti goes right into the same pot, soaking up all those incredible flavors as it cooks to al dente perfection. #easydinner #onepotmeal

There’s something magical about the way the pasta absorbs the savory broth and sauce, creating a dish that’s more flavorful than traditional boiled spaghetti could ever be. Plus, with just one pot to clean afterward, you’ll save time on both cooking and cleanup – making this the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need something delicious on the table fast!

This family-friendly dinner is ready in just 30 minutes, uses simple pantry staples, and delivers that classic comfort food experience everyone craves. Say goodbye to multiple pots and pans and hello to your new favorite pasta dinner!

Ingredients Overview

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a look at what you’ll need for this one pot spaghetti dinner:

• Ground Beef: The foundation of our hearty sauce, providing rich flavor and protein.
• Onion & Garlic: These aromatic ingredients build the flavor base for our sauce.
• Pasta Sauce: A 24-ounce jar provides the perfect tomato base for our one pot dish.
• Beef Broth: This is the secret to cooking the pasta right in the pot – it adds richness and depth.
• Dried Herbs: Basil and oregano provide that classic Italian flavor profile.
• Spaghetti: The star of our dish that will absorb all those amazing flavors as it cooks.
• Parmesan Cheese: The perfect finishing touch to add a salty, savory element.

What makes this recipe so brilliant is that everything cooks together in one pot, allowing the pasta to absorb all the flavors as it softens. This creates a much more flavorful dish than cooking the pasta separately in water.

Step-by-Step Overview

Let’s walk through how to make this simple yet delicious one pot spaghetti:

1. Step 1
   

   Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. This should take about 5 minutes until the meat is fully browned. Drain any excess fat to keep your dish from becoming greasy.

   
   
2. Step 2
   

   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the browned beef. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and translucent. This aromatic base will infuse your sauce with flavor.

   
   
3. Step 3
   

   Pour in the pasta sauce and beef broth. Add the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined, then bring the mixture to a boil. The combination of sauce and broth creates the perfect cooking liquid for your pasta.

   
   
4. Step 4
   

   Add the uncooked spaghetti to the pot, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot with a lid. The pasta will cook directly in the sauce, absorbing all those wonderful flavors as it softens.

   
   
5. Step 5
   

   Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the spaghetti is tender and cooked through. The sauce will thicken as the pasta releases its starch while cooking.

   
   
6. Step 6
   

   Once the pasta is done, remove the pot from the heat. Serve your one pot spaghetti with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for the perfect finishing touch.

   
   

Tips & Tricks for Perfect One Pot Spaghetti

Want to make sure your one pot spaghetti turns out perfectly every time? Follow these helpful tips:

• Don’t skip browning the meat: This creates a deeper flavor base for your entire dish.
• Stir occasionally: While the pasta is cooking, be sure to stir every few minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
• Test for doneness: Start checking your pasta at the 10-minute mark. Different brands may cook at slightly different rates.
• Adjust the consistency: If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more broth. If it’s too thin, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
• Let it rest: Allow the dish to sit for 3-5 minutes after cooking for the sauce to thicken to the perfect consistency.

Delicious Variations

One of the best things about this one pot spaghetti recipe is how versatile it is. Here are some tasty ways to customize it:

• Protein Swaps: Replace the ground beef with Italian sausage, ground turkey, or even plant-based meat alternatives.
• Veggie Boost: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini when cooking the onions.
• Spicy Twist: Include red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for some heat.
• Creamy Version: Stir in 2-3 tablespoons of cream cheese or heavy cream at the end of cooking.
• Extra Cheesy: Mix in shredded mozzarella or Italian blend cheese in addition to the Parmesan.
• Mediterranean Style: Add olives, capers, and a few sundried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

This one pot spaghetti makes fantastic leftovers! Here’s how to properly store and reheat them:

Refrigerator Storage:

Allow the spaghetti to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezer Storage:

For longer storage, this dish freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating:

For best results, reheat in a covered saucepan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce as needed. Alternatively, microwave individual portions with a damp paper towel cover to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or farfalle. Cooking times may vary slightly, so check for doneness a few minutes earlier.

Why cook pasta in the sauce instead of separately?

Cooking pasta directly in the sauce allows it to absorb all those delicious flavors as it cooks. It also releases starch into the sauce, naturally thickening it and creating a silky texture without adding extra ingredients.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

This dish is best made fresh, but you can prep the meat sauce portion ahead of time, refrigerate it, and then reheat it to a simmer before adding the pasta when you’re ready to serve.

What sides go well with one pot spaghetti?

A simple green salad and garlic bread make perfect accompaniments to complete this meal. For a heartier option, roasted vegetables on the side would be delicious.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot or slow cooker?

Yes! For Instant Pot, use the sauté function for the meat and onions, then add remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for 5-6 minutes with a quick release. For slow cooker, brown the meat separately first, then combine all ingredients except pasta and cook on low for 6-7 hours, adding the pasta during the last 30-40 minutes.

I absolutely love making this one pot spaghetti recipe when I need something quick and comforting on busy weeknights. There’s something so satisfying about watching all the ingredients transform into a delicious meal in just one pot. My family gathers around the kitchen as the aroma fills our home, and I can’t help but smile when I see empty plates at the end of dinner. The best part? I’m not stuck washing multiple pots and pans afterward! I’ve been making this recipe for years and it never disappoints – I hope you enjoy it as much as we do. Let me know in the comments if you tried any of the variations or have your own special twist to add!