If you are craving a comforting, fuss-free pasta dinner that tastes like it took hours to prepare, this One Pot Spaghetti Recipe is your new best friend. Packed with the fresh flavors of garlic, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all melded together in a single pot, it’s a dream come true for busy weeknights. This dish is not only a cinch to make but also delivers that perfect balance of saucy richness and al dente texture, all without the mess of multiple pans.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this One Pot Spaghetti Recipe lies in its simplicity and quality ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and creating a satisfying texture that you’ll love.
- 8 oz dry spaghetti: Choose your favorite brand for the perfect al dente bite.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic beautifully.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a fragrant and savory base to carry the sauce.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes in juice: Brings natural sweetness and tang to the dish, forming the heart of the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- Fresh basil, for garnish: Adds a burst of herbaceous brightness and color to finish.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled in at the end for that melty, savory touch that ties everything together.
How to Make One Pot Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Gently sauté the minced garlic just until it becomes fragrant, about one minute. This step releases those wonderful aromas that will infuse the entire dish with depth.
Step 2: Add the Tomatoes
Next, add the canned diced tomatoes along with their juice right into the pot. Season generously with salt and pepper. These ingredients form a rustic, vibrant sauce that clings to the pasta perfectly.
Step 3: Introduce the Spaghetti
Place the uncooked spaghetti straight into the pot, then pour in enough water or broth to cover it by about an inch. This simple method eliminates the need for pre-cooking and helps the pasta absorb flavor as it cooks.
Step 4: Cook Until Al Dente
Turn up the heat and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and leave the pot uncovered. Stir occasionally, making sure the spaghetti doesn’t stick together or to the bottom. After 10 to 12 minutes of simmering, your pasta should reach that ideal al dente texture.
Step 5: Final Touches
Remove the pot from heat, then gently stir in fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese melts into the sauce, creating a luxurious finish, while the basil adds a fresh fragrance and pops of color. Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its best.
How to Serve One Pot Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil and grated Parmesan are classic, but don’t hesitate to get creative. A drizzle of good quality olive oil, a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts can elevate this meal with extra layers of flavor and texture.
Side Dishes
Since this One Pot Spaghetti Recipe is wonderfully filling on its own, sides can be simple yet complementary. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or garlic bread brushed with herb butter pairs beautifully to balance the richness of the pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve directly in rustic bowls to showcase its comforting, homestyle charm. For a dinner party, garnish with extra fresh basil and Parmesan shavings, and perhaps add a small bowl of chili flakes on the side. This dish also shines when paired with a glass of your favorite red wine for that extra touch of indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the pasta may absorb more liquid and thicken, so a splash of water or broth before reheating can bring it back to life.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Make sure it cools completely before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the spaghetti gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or broth, stirring frequently. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to avoid drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While this recipe works beautifully with spaghetti, feel free to substitute with linguine, fettuccine, or even smaller shapes like penne. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Just omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative. You might also want to boost the flavors with nutritional yeast, which adds a cheesy, nutty edge.
Can I add meat or vegetables?
Definitely. Ground beef, Italian sausage, or sautéed veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms can be added in Step 1 before adding the tomatoes. This is a great way to customize the dish to your liking.
How do I prevent the spaghetti from sticking together?
Stir frequently during cooking, especially in the first few minutes after adding the pasta. The olive oil and sufficient cooking liquid also help keep strands separate.
Why does the pasta cook in the sauce rather than boiling water?
The pasta softens by absorbing liquid as it cooks, and cooking it in the sauce mixture allows it to soak up more flavor than traditional methods, creating a more cohesive and tasty dish.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an easy, flavorful, and heartwarming meal that saves you time and effort in the kitchen, this One Pot Spaghetti Recipe is absolutely worth trying. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy homemade pasta without the fuss, and once you make it, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe rotation. So go ahead, give it a whirl — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
One Pot Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This One Pot Spaghetti recipe is a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining simplicity and flavor, it uses minimal ingredients and one pot for cooking, making cleanup a breeze. The spaghetti is cooked directly in a savory tomato sauce infused with garlic, then finished with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese for a comforting and satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 8 oz dry spaghetti
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes in juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh basil, for garnish
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and sauté garlic: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Add tomatoes and season: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring to combine the flavors.
- Add spaghetti and liquid: Stir in the uncooked spaghetti, making sure to submerge it under enough water or broth by about an inch so it cooks evenly.
- Simmer until al dente: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Keep the pot uncovered and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spaghetti is tender but still firm to the bite.
- Finish and serve: Remove the pot from heat and stir in fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve the spaghetti hot, garnished with any additional basil or cheese if desired.
Notes
- Use vegetable broth instead of water for extra flavor.
- Stir often while simmering to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom.
- Add red pepper flakes if you like a spicy kick.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of cream or milk before serving.
- Can be doubled easily for larger servings.
