This one-pot spaghetti is all about simplicity without sacrificing flavor. With ground beef, onions, garlic, and a rich pasta sauce, this dish is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Everything cooks in the same pot—including the pasta—which means less mess and more time to enjoy with family.

One-pot meals are lifesavers, especially when time is tight. This spaghetti recipe checks all the boxes for a quick, delicious, and minimal-cleanup dinner. You get the hearty goodness of a traditional spaghetti dish, but everything simmers together in one pot, infusing all the flavors. It’s a great option for any weeknight.

Why you’ll love this One Pot Spaghetti

One-Pot Wonder:
You only need one pot for this entire meal. Fewer dishes mean more time relaxing after dinner—always a win!
Big on Flavor, Easy on Prep:
With garlic, onions, and herbs all working together, this spaghetti packs in the flavor without hours of prep. It’s as simple as tossing everything in the pot and letting it do the work.
Super Versatile:
You can easily adjust this recipe to fit your preferences or dietary needs. Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, or even make it vegetarian by swapping the meat for mushrooms or lentils.

A Family Favorite for Busy Nights

This spaghetti recipe is one we turn to on those hectic nights when no one has time to think about dinner. The garlic and herbs bring such a cozy flavor to the dish, and it’s easy enough to pull together with what we have in the pantry. It’s a meal that always hits the spot without needing much effort, and that’s exactly what makes it a repeat in our kitchen.

Ingredients Needed for One Pot Spaghetti

Ground Beef: I love using beef because it adds richness, but you can swap it for turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative if you prefer.
Onion: A small onion adds a sweet, mellow flavor that pairs perfectly with the garlic and sauce.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the dish a nice punch. Feel free to adjust the amount depending on how garlicky you like things!
Pasta Sauce: Go with your favorite jarred Pasta Sauce Or if you have an extra 10 minutes you could make my really easy Homemade Marinara Sauce. A good sauce makes all the difference!
Beef Broth: This helps the pasta cook and adds some extra flavor. You can use vegetable broth if you’d like to keep things lighter or vegetarian.
Basil and Oregano: These herbs give the dish a classic Italian feel. Dried herbs are perfect for this recipe since they hold up well during cooking.
Spaghetti: Regular spaghetti works best for even cooking. You can use whole wheat or gluten-free if that’s your preference.
Salt and Pepper: Season to taste, but remember the broth and sauce will add a good amount of flavor.

How to make One Pot Spaghetti

**For more detailed instructions, please refer to the printable recipe card below.**

Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, then add the onion and garlic.

Pour in the marinara sauce, beef broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring it to a boil.

Add the uncooked spaghetti to the pot, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

Cover and cook until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add mushrooms or lentils for a hearty, plant-based option. You’ll still get all the flavor but in a meatless version.
Spicy Kick: If you like some heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. It adds a little extra zing to the dish.
Cheesy Goodness: Stir in some shredded mozzarella or Parmesan at the end for a creamy, cheesy finish.
Meat Swap: Try ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner take on this dish. The flavors work just as well with lighter meats.

Serving Suggestions

With a Fresh Salad: Serve your spaghetti alongside a crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
Garlic Bread Heaven: A side of warm, buttery garlic bread is always a hit with spaghetti. You could even try these Homemade Garlic Knots for a twist on the original.
Pair with Roasted Veggies: Roasted broccoli or Brussels sprouts make a great side that adds some texture and nutrition to the meal.
Classic Caesar Salad: You can never go wrong with a Caesar salad to pair with spaghetti. The tangy dressing complements the savory sauce perfectly.

Storage and Freezing

How should I store One Pot Spaghetti?

Let the spaghetti cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen up the sauce.

Can I freeze One Pot Spaghetti?

For longer storage, allow the spaghetti to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm up on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.

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Tips & Tricks

Break the Spaghetti (If You Dare!): Some might say breaking spaghetti is a crime, but if your pot’s a little on the small side, it’s totally forgivable! It helps prevent clumping and makes stirring much easier. Don’t worry, your secret is safe with me!
Use a Wide Pot: A wide, shallow pot helps ensure the pasta cooks evenly without sticking together. And you won’t have to commit the crime of breaking the spaghetti!
Don’t Forget to Stir: Stir the pot every few minutes while the pasta is cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom.
Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. A little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference.
Add Fresh Herbs at the End: If you have fresh basil or parsley on hand, toss some in at the very end for a burst of freshness.

More Meaty Mains

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! You can swap out the spaghetti for any other pasta you like. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the shape and thickness.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely. Skip the meat and add mushrooms or a plant-based ground beef alternative. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
How do I keep the pasta from sticking?
Stir the pasta occasionally while it’s cooking to prevent it from sticking together or to the bottom of the pot.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, fresh herbs add a lovely flavor! Just remember to use more than the dried amounts, as fresh herbs are less concentrated.
What if my sauce is too thick?
If the sauce thickens too much during cooking, just add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. See notes below if you want an Extra Saucy dish.
What’s the best way to reheat this?
Reheat it on the stovetop with a little water or broth to keep the sauce from drying out. You can also microwave it, stirring occasionally.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Definitely! You can toss in some spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers when you add the sauce for extra veggies.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, this spaghetti holds up well as leftovers, so feel free to make it ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Add some extra sauce to keep it delicious.