One Pot Spaghetti

Name: One Pot Spaghetti
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti; 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil

Published: February 5, 2025

by Aria

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Spaghetti

Quick and Easy Preparation: With just one pot required for cooking, you can have this delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Minimal Cleanup Required: Say goodbye to piles of dirty dishes. Cooking everything in one pot means less mess and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.
Rich Flavor Profile: The ingredients meld together beautifully as they cook, resulting in a dish bursting with flavor that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to personalize your one pot spaghetti by adding vegetables, proteins, or spices according to your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for One Pot Spaghetti

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Spaghetti: Use standard dried spaghetti for best results; whole grain or gluten-free options work well too.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes add moisture and flavor; choose low-sodium varieties if preferred.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides essential flavor; you can adjust the amount based on your taste.
Basil: Fresh basil enhances the dish’s aroma; dried basil can be used if fresh isn’t available.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds creaminess and richness to the sauce; always opt for freshly grated when possible.

For the Sauce:

Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing garlic and adding healthy fats to the dish.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth serves as the base liquid for cooking pasta while enhancing flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make One Pot Spaghetti

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Sauté Garlic

In a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about one minute.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes

Stir in canned diced tomatoes along with their juice. Allow them to simmer for about three minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Incorporate Broth

Pour in chicken broth along with fresh basil. Bring the mixture to a boil before proceeding to the next step.

Step 4: Cook Spaghetti

Add uncooked spaghetti directly into the boiling mixture. Stir well so that strands are submerged. Reduce heat to medium-low and cover; cook for around ten minutes until pasta is al dente.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese

Once cooked, remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy throughout.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Transfer servings onto plates or bowls. Garnish with additional basil if desired for extra freshness.

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Quality Ingredients: Opting for fresh herbs and quality cheese significantly elevates flavor throughout your meal.
Adjust Liquid Levels: Depending on how saucy you prefer it, feel free to adjust chicken broth levels—add more if needed during cooking.
Add Vegetables: Enhance nutrition by throwing in spinach or bell peppers during cooking; they’ll soften nicely without compromising texture.

Mistakes to avoid

Skipping the Right Pasta: Using the wrong type of pasta can ruin your One Pot Spaghetti. Opt for spaghetti or linguine, which cook evenly and absorb flavors well. Avoid using large shapes like penne or rigatoni, as they can lead to uneven cooking. Additionally, ensure that the pasta is not overcooked; it should be al dente when you finish cooking so that it maintains its texture in the dish.
Neglecting the Liquid Ratio: One common mistake is using too much or too little liquid. The right amount is crucial for a successful One Pot Spaghetti. Always follow the recipe’s recommended liquid measurements to allow proper absorption during cooking. Too much liquid will result in a soupy consistency, while too little can lead to burnt pasta. Pay close attention to this aspect for optimal results.
Overcrowding the Pot: Avoid overcrowding your pot with ingredients. This can prevent even cooking and lead to uneven flavors in your One Pot Spaghetti. Stick to the recommended amounts of vegetables, protein, and pasta as specified in your recipe. If you’re tempted to add more, consider making a separate batch instead of cramming everything into one pot.

Serving Suggestions for One Pot Spaghetti

This One Pot Spaghetti is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor of garlic bread complements the rich taste of the spaghetti perfectly. Serve it warm for a delightful crunch.
Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the savory pasta. Consider adding cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for extra color.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese can enhance the flavor of your One Pot Spaghetti. Sprinkle it generously before serving for an extra creamy touch.

FAQs about One Pot Spaghetti

What ingredients are needed for One Pot Spaghetti?

To prepare One Pot Spaghetti, you will need essential ingredients like spaghetti noodles, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, and vegetable or chicken broth. You can also add your choice of vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition. Don’t forget herbs like basil or oregano to elevate the flavors. This recipe allows you to customize it based on what you have at home while ensuring that it remains a simple and delicious meal.

How long does it take to cook One Pot Spaghetti?

One Pot Spaghetti cooks in approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes preparing your ingredients and allowing the pasta to absorb all the flavors while simmering in the pot. It’s a quick and easy meal that is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.

Can I make One Pot Spaghetti ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare One Pot Spaghetti ahead of time. Simply cook it as instructed, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. However, keep in mind that reheated spaghetti may require a splash of water or broth to restore its original texture.

What variations can I try with One Pot Spaghetti?

There are numerous variations you can try with One Pot Spaghetti. You might include proteins like chicken, shrimp, or sausage to make it heartier. For a vegetarian option, add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. Additionally, experimenting with different sauces such as marinara or Alfredo can give this classic dish a unique twist each time.

Conclusion for One Pot Spaghetti

One Pot Spaghetti is not only easy to make but also delivers incredible flavor in every bite. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that brings comfort and joy to your table. Pair it with garlic bread or a crisp salad for a complete dining experience. Plus, the ability to customize this dish means you’ll never get bored. Enjoy this delicious recipe any night of the week – it’s sure to become a family favorite.

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📖 Recipe Card