Easy One-Pot Spaghetti with Meat Sauce: Your Go-To Weeknight Meal
There’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of spaghetti with rich meat sauce to bring a smile to your face. It’s a classic for a reason – hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. But let’s be honest, traditional spaghetti often involves multiple pots, simmering sauce for hours, and a stack of dishes to clean. What if you could capture that beloved homemade taste, complete with a savory meat sauce, all in one single pan and in under 30 minutes? Enter the ultimate weeknight hero: One-Pot Spaghetti with Meat Sauce.
This revolutionary recipe takes the classic, comforting flavors of your favorite spaghetti dinner and streamlines the entire cooking process. Forget the separate pasta pot, the lengthy sauce simmer, and the mountain of dirty dishes. With this method, your ground beef, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and even the dry spaghetti all cook together in one large skillet, absorbing every bit of delicious flavor as they go. It’s a game-changer for busy families and anyone who loves a delicious meal without the fuss.
Growing up, spaghetti with meat sauce was a bi-weekly staple in my house. My mom’s homemade sauce was always a highlight, and on special occasions (or when my dad got his way), it would be served alongside perfectly simmered meatballs. Paired with Cheesy Garlic Bread, it was the ultimate childhood dinner. While I still adore that slow-simmered perfection, modern life often demands speed and simplicity. This one-pot version delivers that nostalgic flavor in a fraction of the time, making it my ultimate go-to comfort food for busy evenings.
Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Spaghetti Recipe
This isn’t just another pasta recipe; it’s a culinary revelation for anyone seeking convenience without compromising on taste. Here’s why this one-pot spaghetti will become a regular in your rotation:
- Unbeatable Convenience: Everything cooks in one pot, drastically reducing cleanup time. This alone is a huge win on busy weeknights!
- Lightning Fast: From start to finish, you’re looking at about 25 minutes of total time. That’s quicker than ordering takeout!
- Homemade Flavor: Despite its speed, this recipe doesn’t cut corners on flavor. The pasta cooks directly in the sauce, absorbing all the aromatic spices and rich tomato goodness.
- Family Favorite: It’s a universally loved dish that appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring clean plates every time.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your preferences, whether you want to add more vegetables, switch up the protein, or adjust the spice level.
The beauty of one-pot pasta recipes is their incredible versatility. Once you master this basic technique, a world of possibilities opens up. My blog features a ton of variations, including this fantastic Homemade Hamburger Helper Lasagna – another quick and satisfying meal that comes together in a single pan.
Essential Ingredients for Your One-Pan Spaghetti
For precise measurements and the complete recipe, make sure to scroll down to the FULL PRINTABLE recipe card at the bottom of this post.
Don’t let the ingredient list intimidate you! While we’re building a homemade sauce from scratch, many items are pantry staples. You’ll be surprised how quickly these come together to form a truly delicious meal.
- Olive Oil: The foundation for sautéing our aromatics and beef. A good quality olive oil can add a subtle richness.
- Ground Beef: Lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) works best here. You could also use ground turkey, Italian sausage, or a blend of meats for different flavor profiles.
- Onion: Finely diced onion provides a crucial aromatic base for the sauce. Yellow or white onions are perfect.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is key to a robust sauce. Don’t skip it!
- Crushed Tomatoes: I prefer crushed tomatoes for their texture and body, which helps create a substantial sauce. You can also use tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, or even a good quality jarred marinara if you’re looking for a shortcut.
- Water: Essential for cooking the spaghetti right in the sauce. It creates the liquid needed for the pasta to absorb and swell, infusing it with flavor. Vegetable or beef broth can also be used for an even deeper flavor.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of classic Italian herbs. Store-bought is perfectly fine, or you can whip up your own Homemade Italian Seasoning to have on hand for all your Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
- Dried Oregano & Dried Basil: These individual herbs boost the classic Italian flavor profile.
- Sugar: A small amount of granulated sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a well-rounded sauce. Don’t worry, it won’t make your sauce sweet!
- Salt & Pepper: To taste, these basic seasonings bring all the flavors together.
- Dried Spaghetti: The star of the show! While spaghetti is traditional, this method works beautifully with other long, thin pasta shapes like linguine or fettuccine. Shorter pastas like penne or rotini can also be used, but might require slight adjustments to cook time and liquid. Breaking the spaghetti in half makes it easier to fit in the pan and stir.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for topping is a must! It adds a salty, umami finish that elevates the dish.
If you’re truly pressed for time, you can certainly take a shortcut by using a large jar of your favorite premade pasta sauce in place of the crushed tomatoes and individual spices. This will further reduce the ingredient list while still delivering a satisfying meal.
How to Make One-Pot Spaghetti: Step-by-Step Guide
Creating this delicious and easy one-pot spaghetti is simpler than you might imagine. Follow these steps for a perfect meal every time:
- Brown the Beef and Aromatics: Start by heating a large skillet (at least 12-inch with high sides) over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil, then introduce the ground beef and finely diced onion. Break up the beef with a spoon as it cooks. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, until the beef is fully browned and the onions have softened and become translucent. Drain any excess grease to ensure a lighter, less oily sauce. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until it becomes wonderfully fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
- Build the Flavorful Sauce: This is where the magic happens! Pour in the crushed tomatoes and water (or broth). Add all the dry seasonings: Italian seasoning, dried oregano, dried basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine. Now, carefully add the dry spaghetti. You might need to break the long strands in half to fit them comfortably in your skillet. Ensure the spaghetti is submerged as much as possible in the liquid. If you’re using jarred marinara for a shortcut, simply add the marinara and water/broth along with the spaghetti.
- Simmer to Perfection: Bring the liquid mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer. This is the crucial stage where the pasta cooks directly in the sauce. Stir every couple of minutes to prevent the spaghetti from sticking together or to the bottom of the pan. This also helps ensure even cooking. Continue to cook for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente (tender but with a slight bite) and most of the liquid has been absorbed, leaving a rich, thick sauce.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in some freshly grated Parmesan cheese if you want a cheesy sauce throughout, or simply top individual servings with a generous sprinkle. Serve immediately while hot. It’s incredibly delicious either way!
Storage and Freezing Tips
One of the many benefits of this spaghetti with meat sauce recipe is that it makes enough for delicious leftovers! Just like many pasta dishes, the flavors often meld and deepen overnight, making it even better the next day. It’s perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch.
- Refrigeration: Allow any leftover spaghetti to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, you might want to add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, as the pasta will continue to absorb liquid.
- Freezing: This dish freezes beautifully! Once the spaghetti has completely cooled, transfer it to freezer-safe airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Make sure to leave some headspace if using containers, as liquids expand when frozen. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw frozen spaghetti overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a little water or broth if needed to restore the sauce’s consistency. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through, stirring halfway.
Delicious Serving Suggestions
While this one-pot spaghetti is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with a simple side can elevate your dinner experience. Here are a few ideas to round out your meal:
- Fresh Salad: A crisp Simple Tossed Salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
- Garlic Bread: You can never go wrong with garlic bread! Options like Cheesy Garlic Bread, fluffy Olive Garden Breadsticks, or even Garlic Monkey Bread are perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: A side of healthy greens like Roasted Asparagus, broccoli, or green beans adds nutrients and a lovely texture.
- Crusty Bread: A simple crusty baguette or a loaf of Italian bread is always a good choice.
Tips for One-Pot Spaghetti Success
To ensure your one-pot spaghetti turns out perfectly every time, keep these handy tips in mind:
- Use a Large Skillet: A skillet that is at least 12 inches in diameter with high sides is essential. This provides enough surface area for the spaghetti to cook evenly and prevents overflow.
- Break the Spaghetti: Breaking the dry spaghetti strands in half before adding them to the pot makes them much easier to manage and stir, ensuring they all get submerged in the sauce.
- Stir Frequently: This is crucial! Stirring every 2-3 minutes prevents the pasta from clumping together and sticking to the bottom of the pan, allowing it to cook evenly and absorb the sauce.
- Adjust Liquid as Needed: Different pasta brands and cooking environments can affect liquid absorption. If your pasta seems too dry and is not yet cooked, add a small amount of extra water or broth (1/4 to 1/2 cup at a time) until it reaches the desired consistency and doneness. If it’s too soupy at the end, simply uncover and simmer for a few more minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the pasta as it nears the end of its cooking time. You want it al dente, not mushy.
Variations to Try
This recipe is incredibly flexible. Feel free to experiment with these delicious variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the other seasonings for a touch of heat.
- Vegetable Boost: Sauté finely diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini along with the onions to sneak in extra veggies. Spinach can be stirred in at the very end until wilted.
- Different Proteins: Substitute ground beef with ground Italian sausage (hot or mild), ground turkey, or even a mix of ground meats. For a vegetarian option, use lentils or finely chopped mushrooms in place of meat.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese at the very end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Cheese Lovers: In addition to Parmesan, try stirring in a handful of shredded mozzarella or a dollop of ricotta cheese just before serving for an extra cheesy delight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use other types of pasta?
- Yes, absolutely! While spaghetti is classic, this recipe works well with other long pastas like linguine or fettuccine. Shorter, sturdy shapes like penne, rotini, or ziti can also be used, but might require slight adjustments to the cooking time and liquid amount. Always ensure the pasta is mostly submerged.
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
- Yes, ground turkey is an excellent substitute if you prefer a leaner option. Follow the same browning and cooking instructions.
- Why do you add sugar to the sauce?
- A small amount of sugar helps to balance the natural acidity of the tomatoes, creating a more harmonious and well-rounded flavor profile for the sauce. It doesn’t make the sauce sweet, but rather enhances the overall taste.
- How do I prevent the spaghetti from sticking together?
- The key is frequent stirring, especially during the simmering phase. Stirring every few minutes ensures the pasta separates and cooks evenly in the sauce.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the pasta can continue to absorb liquid and soften over time. However, leftovers are fantastic and can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days, or frozen for longer storage. Just be aware the pasta texture might be slightly softer upon reheating.
More Easy Dinner Recipes
Looking for more simple and delicious meal ideas? Check out some of my other favorite easy dinner recipes:
- Pizza Pasta Skillet
- Creamy Pesto Tortellini
- Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup
- Chicken Parmesan Sandwich
- Creamy Chicken Stroganoff
One Pot Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons Olive Oil
- 1 pound Ground Beef
- 1 small Onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 28 ounce can Crushed Tomatoes
- 3 cups Water
- 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1 teaspoon Dried Basil
- 1 teaspoon Granulated Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 12 ounces Dry Spaghetti
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
Instructions
- In a large skillet heat olive oil over medium high heat. Add ground beef and onions breaking apart. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the beef is cooked and the onions are soft.2 teaspoons Olive Oil, 1 pound Ground Beef, 1 small Onion
- Add garlic and let cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.3 cloves Garlic
- Add tomatoes, water, all of the spices and seasonings, and spaghetti. Bring to a boil, cover and reduce heat. Cook for 10-12 minutes until the pasta is cooked, stirring every few minutes.1 28 ounce can Crushed Tomatoes, 3 cups Water, 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning, 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano, 1 teaspoon Dried Basil, 1 teaspoon Granulated Sugar, 1 teaspoon Salt, 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper, 12 ounces Dry Spaghetti
- Add Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
I created a fun group on Facebook, and I would love for you to join us! It’s a place where you can share YOUR favorite recipes, ask questions, and see what’s new at Dinners, Dishes and Desserts (so that you never miss a new recipe)!
Be sure to follow me on Instagram and tag #dinnersdishes so I can see all the wonderful DINNERS, DISHES, AND DESSERTS recipes YOU make!
Be sure to follow me on my social media, so you never miss a post!
Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram
.