Hey y'all! If you love a hearty pasta dinner but dread a sink full of dishes, this one-pot spaghetti bolognaise is here to save the day. It wraps up all the robust, savory flavors of a classic bolognaise sauce and tender spaghetti—without extra pans or fuss! Perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or whenever you crave cozy comfort food. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This

All the flavor, one pot—goodbye, messy kitchen!
Ready in under an hour—ideal for speedy, satisfying dinners.
Family-friendly: kids and adults ask for seconds.
Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.
Perfect make-ahead meal, and leftovers taste even better!

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 carrot, peeled and diced small
1 celery stalk, diced
500 g (1 lb) ground beef
2 tablespoon tomato paste
400 g (14 oz) canned chopped tomatoes
750 ml (3 cups) beef stock
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
250 g (9 oz) uncooked spaghetti
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, for serving (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Sauté the Base

Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery; sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the beef is browned and no longer pink.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in the tomato paste, chopped tomatoes, beef stock, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti

Add uncooked spaghetti directly to the sauce, breaking it in half if needed so it fits under the liquid. Stir well to submerge the pasta. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Finish & Serve

Remove the lid and taste for seasoning. Cook for 3-5 minutes extra, uncovered, if you prefer a thicker sauce. Serve hot, sprinkled generously with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.

Notes

For a richer flavor, deglaze the pot with a splash of red wine before adding tomatoes.
Stir frequently towards the end to avoid spaghetti sticking together.
If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap the beef for lentils or plant-based mince.

Variations

Turkey Bolognaise: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version.
Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon chili flakes with the tomato paste for some heat.
Vegetable Loaded: Toss in chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

Required Equipment

Large deep skillet or Dutch oven with lid
Chopping board and knife
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

Storage Instructions

Let leftovers cool to room temperature before storing in an airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, store portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of stock or water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli.
Pair with buttery garlic bread or warm ciabatta.
Enjoy with a glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon.

Pro Tips

Use high-quality beef stock for the richest sauce.
Break the spaghetti in half before adding to help it cook evenly in the pot.
Add the cheese just before serving for the creamiest, melty finish.

FAQ

Can I make this one-pot spaghetti bolognaise ahead of time?

Absolutely! The flavors deepen as it sits, so making it a day in advance works great. Just reheat and serve.

Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti. Keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Stir well after adding spaghetti and continue stirring occasionally while it cooks to ensure everything stays separate.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-5