Craving a hearty, flavorful meal that doesn’t require a mountain of dishes? Look no further than One-Pot Spaghetti Bolognese. This dish combines rich, meaty sauce with perfectly cooked spaghetti—all made in a single pot! It’s an easy weeknight dinner that delivers classic Italian comfort without the cleanup hassle.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Spaghetti Bolognese

Cooking pasta and sauce together in one pot might sound unconventional, but it’s a game-changer. The pasta absorbs the rich Bolognese sauce as it cooks, resulting in a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s far from your typical spaghetti. Plus, it saves time and effort, making it perfect for busy nights.

Ingredients list :

For the One-Pot Spaghetti Bolognese:

Fresh basil, for garnish

1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

1 onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 carrot, diced

1 celery stalk, diced

1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

2 tbsp tomato paste

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

4 cups beef broth

8 oz spaghetti (broken in half)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tbsp olive oil

Timing: Faster Than You Think!

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and chili flakes (if using).

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Break the spaghetti in half and add it to the pot. Stir to ensure the pasta is submerged in the sauce. Cover and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened, remove from heat. Stir in half of the Parmesan cheese. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and more Parmesan.

Tips for the Best One-Pot Spaghetti Bolognese

1. Use Quality Beef: Lean ground beef keeps the dish hearty without being greasy.
2. Break the Spaghetti: This helps it fit in the pot and cook evenly.
3. Stir Occasionally: Prevents pasta from clumping or sticking to the bottom.
4. Adjust Liquid as Needed: If the sauce gets too thick, add a bit more broth.
5. Let It Rest: A few minutes off the heat helps the flavors meld together.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 56g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 980mg

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic Bread: A crispy slice pairs perfectly with the rich sauce.
• Side Salad: Lighten up the meal with a fresh green salad.
• Wine Pairing: Try a robust red like Chianti or Merlot.
• Cheese Topping: Extra Parmesan never hurts!
• Chili Flakes: Add a little heat for those who like a spicy kick.

Variations to Try

1. Vegetarian Version: Replace meat with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty, plant-based meal.
2. Cheesy Twist: Stir in a cup of mozzarella just before serving for a gooey, cheesy finish.
3. Spicy Bolognese: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or hot sauce.
4. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spaghetti for a celiac-friendly option.
5. Low-Carb: Substitute spaghetti with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It keeps well for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
• Meal Prep: Divide into single-serving containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Enough Liquid: Since the pasta cooks in the sauce, make sure there’s enough broth.
2. Overcooking the Pasta: Stir occasionally and check for doneness to avoid mushy spaghetti.
3. Skipping the Sauté: Browning the veggies and meat first builds essential flavor.
4. Too Thick Sauce: Add broth gradually if the sauce reduces too much.
5. Not Seasoning Enough: Taste and adjust seasoning after simmering.

Final Thoughts

One-Pot Spaghetti Bolognese is a game-changer for anyone who loves Italian food but hates cleanup. The hearty sauce, tender pasta, and minimal effort make it a dinner you’ll want to make again and again. Plus, the one-pot method means you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing dishes!

Try it tonight and see why this easy, flavorful dish deserves a spot in your weeknight rotation.

FAQs

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Yes, ground turkey works well and makes the dish lighter.

Q: Is it okay to use whole-wheat spaghetti?
A: Absolutely, though you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

Q: Can I add wine to the sauce?
A: Yes! A splash of red wine adds depth. Just cook it off before adding the broth.

Q: How do I make it creamier?
A: Stir in a quarter cup of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta just before serving.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, it actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Enjoy your comforting and hassle-free One-Pot Spaghetti Bolognese! It’s a hearty, delicious meal that brings a taste of Italy right to your kitchen.