Quick One Pot Spaghetti – Easy, and Delicious

Make dinner effortless with this One Pot Spaghetti recipe, a flavorful, quick, and easy meal that cooks all in a single pot. Packed with a savory tomato sauce, herbs, and perfectly tender pasta, this recipe minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or when you want a comforting dinner fast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Minimal cleanup: everything cooks in one pot.
  • Quick and easy: ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Delicious, homemade tomato sauce with fresh herbs.
  • Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
  • Family-friendly and customizable with veggies or protein.

Ingredients

Flat lay of spaghetti, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs

  • 12 ounces spaghetti
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: grated parmesan, fresh parsley, or red pepper flakes for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Collage showing steps to make One-Pot Spaghetti

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and softened.
  2. Add diced tomatoes, broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  3. Break spaghetti in half and add to the pot, ensuring pasta is mostly submerged in liquid.
  4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and sauce has thickened, about 12–15 minutes.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs as desired.
  6. Serve immediately, garnished with grated parmesan, fresh parsley, or red pepper flakes.

Tips & Variations

  • Add protein: Stir in cooked chicken, sausage, or beans for a heartier meal.
  • Veggie boost: Add chopped bell peppers, spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms during cooking.
  • Cheesy twist: Stir in shredded mozzarella or Parmesan for extra creaminess.
  • Spicy version: Add crushed red pepper or hot sauce to the sauce for a kick.
  • Meal prep: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
  • Freezer: Not recommended, as pasta may become mushy after freezing.
  • Quick tip: Make half portions for smaller households to reduce leftovers.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

One-Pot Spaghetti served with garlic bread and fresh herbs

  • Serve with a simple side salad for a complete meal.
  • Pair with garlic bread or crusty bread for dipping in the sauce.
  • Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or parmesan on top for extra flavor.
  • Enjoy with a glass of chilled sparkling water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti?

Yes! Cooking times may vary slightly; check package instructions and adjust liquid as needed.

Do I need to pre-cook the spaghetti?

No, the pasta cooks directly in the sauce and broth, absorbing maximum flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and skip the cheese, or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

How do I prevent pasta from sticking?

Stir occasionally and ensure enough liquid covers the pasta. Adding a splash of extra broth helps if it begins to dry out.

Ready to Make It?

This One Pot Spaghetti recipe is a quick, delicious, and easy dinner that saves time without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for busy nights or a comforting meal anytime. Save, share, or try it today, you’ll love the simplicity and taste of this one-pot wonder.

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Bowl of one-pot spaghetti with sauce and herbs

Quick One Pot Spaghetti


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  • Author: Myla
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Quick, easy, and flavorful One Pot Spaghetti with tomato sauce, fresh herbs, and minimal cleanup.


Ingredients

Scale

12 ounces spaghetti

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes

2 cups vegetable or chicken broth

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: grated parmesan, fresh parsley, or red pepper flakes for serving


Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and softened.

2. Add diced tomatoes, broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

3. Break spaghetti in half and add to the pot, ensuring pasta is mostly submerged in liquid.

4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and sauce has thickened, about 12–15 minutes.

5. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs as desired.

6. Serve immediately, garnished with grated parmesan, fresh parsley, or red pepper flakes.

Notes

Add cooked protein like chicken or sausage for a heartier meal.

Include extra vegetables for a veggie boost.

Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: One-Pot Cooking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 55 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

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