Dinner

One Pot Spaghetti Recipe

ByCharlotte Montgomery January 14, 2026January 14, 2026

Introduction

One Pot Spaghetti is a hearty, comforting meal that combines rich tomato sauce, savory ground beef, and tender pasta all cooked together for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without the fuss.

A close-up shows a dish of spaghetti mixed with ground beef and diced tomatoes inside a large white pot. The spaghetti noodles are long and glossy, coated in a rich, red-brown sauce. The ground beef is browned and cooked in small clumps evenly spread through the pasta. Bright red tomato pieces and small green herb bits are scattered throughout, adding color contrast. A wooden spoon is partially visible on the right side gently stirring the dish. The pot sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef
1 medium white onion, diced
5 teaspoons minced garlic (about 5 cloves)
3 cups beef broth
2 (15 ounce) cans tomato sauce
2 (15 ounce) cans diced tomatoes
1 cup water
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 pound spaghetti

Instructions

Step 1: Heat a large 6-quart pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until the meat is browned and the onion is soft and translucent, about 7 to 10 minutes. Stir frequently. Drain any excess grease or liquid.
Step 2: Add the minced garlic and cook for 60 to 90 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
Step 3: Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and water. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir to combine. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Once simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the sauce to simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to develop the flavors.
Step 5: Add the spaghetti to the pot, ensuring it is fully submerged in the sauce. Cook for an additional 15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Remove the pot from the heat. Serve the spaghetti hot, straight from the pot.

Tips & Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
Stir in a handful of fresh basil or parsley at the end for added freshness.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
For extra creaminess, stir in a few tablespoons of cream or grated Parmesan just before serving.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce as needed.