Name: One-Pot Spaghetti Bolognese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 carrot, finely chopped; 1 celery stick, finely chopped; 500g (1 lb) ground beef; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 can (400g/14 oz) chopped tomatoes; 3 cups beef broth; 250g (9 oz) spaghetti, broken in half; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper, to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional); Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

This One-Pot Spaghetti Bolognese is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together tender pasta, savory ground meat, and a rich tomato sauce—all cooked in a single pot for maximum convenience and flavor. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, offering a complete meal with minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One-Pot Spaghetti Bolognese is ideal for those seeking a quick and satisfying meal without sacrificing flavor. The simplicity of cooking everything in one pot reduces time spent on dishes and enhances the integration of flavors. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing make-ahead meals, this dish offers a balanced combination of protein, carbs, and vegetables. Additionally, it’s incredibly versatile—easy to customize based on dietary preferences or available ingredients.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Onion
Garlic
Olive oil
Crushed tomatoes
Tomato paste
Beef broth
Worcestershire sauce
Dried Italian herbs
Salt
Black pepper
Spaghetti (uncooked)
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
Mix in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and dried Italian herbs. Season with salt and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the uncooked spaghetti. Stir to ensure the pasta is submerged.
Reduce the heat, cover, and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened, remove from heat.
Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 to 6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Meat options: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives.
Vegetarian version: Skip the meat and add lentils or chopped mushrooms for texture.
Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Cheesy twist: Stir in some shredded mozzarella or ricotta before serving for a creamier consistency.
Veggie boost: Include diced carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrients.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Reheat in a pot over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe dish, covered, in 1-minute intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking during cooking?

Stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks, especially in the first few minutes, to prevent it from clumping together.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook them longer to break down into a sauce. Peel and dice the tomatoes beforehand for best results.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months.

What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti is traditional, but you can also use linguine, fettuccine, or even short pasta like penne—just adjust the cooking time.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely. Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

What’s a good substitute for Worcestershire sauce?

You can use soy sauce with a splash of vinegar or balsamic vinegar alone for a similar tangy depth.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure that all other ingredients, like Worcestershire sauce, are certified gluten-free.

Will the pasta be overcooked if I leave it in the pot?

As long as you follow the recommended timing and remove it from heat once tender, the pasta should not be overcooked.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients. Make sure your pot is large enough to accommodate the increased volume.

What should I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a more complete meal.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Spaghetti Bolognese is a flavorful and efficient solution for a nourishing dinner with minimal cleanup. It combines the rich, slow-cooked flavor of traditional Bolognese with the ease of one-pot cooking. Whether you’re new to the kitchen or a seasoned home cook, this recipe delivers satisfaction in every bite.

One-Pot Spaghetti Bolognese