Easy One-Pot Spaghetti: The Ultimate Spaghetti Recipe
Introduction to Easy One-Pot Spaghetti
If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty meal that requires minimal cleanup, this Easy One-Pot Spaghetti is perfect for you. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. With just a few simple ingredients and one pot, you can create a satisfying meal that everyone will love!
A Personal Story Behind My Easy One-Pot Spaghetti Journey
My journey with spaghetti began in my grandmother’s kitchen, where the aroma of simmering sauce filled the air. She always said that a good spaghetti dish brings family together. Over the years, I’ve experimented with various recipes, but this one-pot version has become a family favorite, allowing us to enjoy the warmth of a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
What Makes This Easy One-Pot Spaghetti Recipe Special?
This Easy One-Pot Spaghetti recipe stands out because it combines convenience with deliciousness. It’s designed for simplicity, ensuring that anyone, regardless of cooking experience, can whip it up in no time. The use of ground beef and a rich marinara sauce creates a robust flavor profile, while the spaghetti cooks right in the sauce, soaking up all the flavors. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices, making it adaptable to your taste preferences!
The Full Easy One-Pot Spaghetti Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 16-ounce package spaghetti, uncooked and broken in half
- 1 24-ounce jar marinara sauce
- 1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 3 cups water or beef broth
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until slightly soft, about 3-4 minutes. This will add a wonderful depth of flavor.
- Add the lean ground beef and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed. Then, add Italian seasoning, sea salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine all the spices.
- Add the broken spaghetti noodles, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and water. Stir thoroughly, ensuring the noodles are submerged in the liquid and separated to prevent sticking.
- Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a low boil over medium-high heat. Remove the cover and stir occasionally, about every 3-4 minutes, to prevent clumping and sticking of the noodles. Adjust heat to medium if needed.
- Once the pasta is cooked al dente or to your preference, remove the pot from heat. Add grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for extra flavor, if desired. This will enhance the dish’s creaminess and freshness.
- Serve and enjoy this delicious one-pot spaghetti dish with your loved ones!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Easy One-Pot Spaghetti
This Easy One-Pot Spaghetti can be served in numerous ways! Consider adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, for added nutrition and flavor. For those who enjoy a spicy kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving for a cheesy finish. Pair it with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will love!
Frequently Asked Questions About Easy One-Pot Spaghetti
Can I use whole wheat spaghetti?
Yes, whole wheat spaghetti can be used for a healthier option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids generally love spaghetti, and this one-pot version is easier for them to enjoy without the fuss of multiple dishes.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this spaghetti dish freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
Easy One-Pot Spaghetti
Equipment
- Dutch oven A heavy-bottomed pot works best for even cooking.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1.5 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1.5 teaspoons sea salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes optional
- 16 ounces spaghetti, uncooked and broken in half
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 15 ounces diced tomatoes, undrained
- 3 cups water or beef broth
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until slightly soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the lean ground beef and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed. Then, add Italian seasoning, sea salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well.
- Add the broken spaghetti noodles, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and water. Stir thoroughly, ensuring the noodles are submerged in the liquid.
- Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a low boil over medium-high heat. Remove the cover and stir occasionally, about every 3-4 minutes.
- Once the pasta is cooked al dente or to your preference, remove the pot from heat. Add grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for extra flavor, if desired.
- Serve and enjoy this delicious one-pot spaghetti dish!