One Pot Spaghetti Recipe Clara quick dinners

One Pot Spaghetti is a quick and easy meal where pasta, sauce, and seasonings cook together in a single pot, creating a rich and flavorful dish with minimal cleanup. This method allows the spaghetti to absorb all the delicious flavors while saving time and effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, this comforting dish is a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Only one pot needed for easy cleanup
• Rich and flavorful sauce infused into the pasta
• Ready in under 30 minutes
• Easily customizable with different proteins and vegetables
• Great for meal prep and leftovers

Ingredients

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

• Spaghetti pasta
• Ground beef or Italian sausage
• Olive oil
• Onion
• Garlic
• Crushed tomatoes
• Tomato sauce
• Tomato paste
• Beef or vegetable broth
• Italian seasoning
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper
• Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil (for garnish)

Directions

1. Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
2. Brown the meat: Add ground beef or sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Add the tomatoes and broth: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, broth, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.
4. Cook the pasta: Add spaghetti directly to the pot, breaking it in half if necessary. Stir occasionally and let it cook until the pasta is tender and absorbs the sauce.
5. Finish and serve: Stir in Parmesan cheese, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Meatless Option: Skip the meat and add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end.
• Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and adjust cooking time as needed.
• Cheesy Twist: Top with shredded mozzarella and let it melt before serving.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, but adjust the liquid and cooking time based on the pasta type.

Do I need to cook the spaghetti separately?

No, the pasta cooks directly in the sauce, absorbing all the flavors.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, just omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

How do I prevent the spaghetti from sticking?

Stir occasionally while cooking to keep the pasta from clumping.

Can I use jarred pasta sauce?

Yes, replace the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce with your favorite jarred sauce.

What’s the best way to add more flavor?

Use fresh garlic, extra Italian seasoning, and a splash of balsamic vinegar.

Can I add extra veggies?

Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers make great additions.

How do I make this dish creamier?

Add a bit of heavy cream, ricotta, or cream cheese at the end.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but the pasta may absorb more sauce over time, so add extra broth when reheating.

What protein can I use instead of beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes work well.

Conclusion

One Pot Spaghetti is the ultimate easy and delicious meal for any night of the week. With rich flavors, minimal cleanup, and endless customization options, this dish is a must-try for pasta lovers. Give it a go and enjoy a hearty, comforting meal in just one pot!

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