Hey y'all! If you’re looking for a quick, hearty dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this 17-minute one-pan spaghetti bolognaise is about to become your new favorite. With just one pan and a handful of staple ingredients, you’ll have a savory meal that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours. It’s perfect for family nights, last-minute guests, or when you’re just craving a comforting bowl of pasta. Let’s get cooking!

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Why You'll Love This

Everything cooks in one pan—making cleanup a breeze.
Ready in just 17 minutes, it’s perfect for bustling weeknights.
Packed with rich, savory flavors that taste homemade.
Simple, common ingredients keep it budget-friendly.
Family-friendly and easily customizable to your tastes.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
400g (14 oz) ground beef
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 can (400g/14 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 cups (500 ml) low-sodium beef stock
250g (9 oz) dried spaghetti
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Grated Parmesan and fresh basil, for serving (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring often, until browned and no longer pink.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, and dried basil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until combined.

Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti

Pour in beef stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the dried spaghetti, breaking it in half if needed to fit. Push the pasta into the liquid. Reduce heat to medium, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring once or twice to prevent sticking, until pasta is al dente and sauce has thickened.

Step 5: Finish & Serve

Remove pan from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning. Top with grated Parmesan and fresh basil, if desired. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor!

Notes

If the sauce thickens too much before the pasta is cooked, add a splash of water or extra stock.
For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of cream or butter at the end.
Grate your Parmesan fresh for the best flavor boost.

Variations

Vegetarian: Use plant-based mince and vegetable stock instead of beef.
Spicy: Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes with the herbs for a kick.
Loaded Veggie: Stir in diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini with the onions.

Required Equipment

Large deep skillet or sauté pan with lid (minimum 12-inch)
Wooden spoon or spatula
Sharp knife and chopping board
Measuring cups and spoons

Storage Instructions

Let leftovers cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and warm gently on the stovetop or microwave until steaming. Not recommended for freezing, as the pasta can become mushy.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Serve with crusty garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Pair with a light red wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing touch.
Top each bowl with extra basil and Parmesan for a fancy finish.

Pro Tips

Stir the pasta a couple of times as it cooks to keep it from sticking together.
Make sure your pan is big enough for the pasta to spread out—overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed for maximum flavor.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta?: Yes! Short pastas like penne or fusilli work, but you may need to adjust cook time and liquid amount slightly.
How can I make this gluten-free?: Just swap in your favorite gluten-free spaghetti and monitor closely—it may cook a bit faster.
Can I make this dish ahead?: While best fresh, you can prep the sauce in advance and finish with pasta just before serving for best texture.