One-Pot Spaghetti

Delicious and easy One-Pot Spaghetti recipe made with ground beef, rich marinara sauce, and creamy cheese. This family-friendly meal is perfect for busy weeknights and ready in just 30 minutes! Minimal cleanup, customizable with your favorite veggies, and perfect served with garlic bread or a fresh salad. Try this comforting, hearty pasta dish today!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (85% lean recommended)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 small bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth (or beef broth)
• 14.5 oz. diced tomatoes, undrained
• ½ pound spaghetti, uncooked
• 24 oz. marinara sauce
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened (optional but highly recommended!)

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Instructions

1. Cook the Meat and Vegetables:
   • In a large pot or deep skillet, cook and crumble the ground beef and diced onion over medium-high heat until the beef is nearly cooked through.
   • Add the diced bell pepper, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, then transfer the mixture to a plate. Drain any grease.
2. Deglaze the Pot:
   • Pour the chicken broth into the pot and use a silicone spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring the broth to a boil.
3. Cook the Pasta:
   • Add the uncooked spaghetti to the boiling broth. Use kitchen tongs to gently twist the noodles into the pot as they soften.
   • Once the spaghetti begins to soften, add the undrained diced tomatoes and stir to combine.
4. Add the Sauce and Cheese:
   • Stir in the marinara sauce and softened cream cheese, ensuring the pasta is fully submerged.
   • Partially cover the pot and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Use the spatula to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
5. Combine and Serve:
   • Return the cooked ground beef mixture to the pot and stir to combine. Heat through.
   • Serve hot with garlic bread and cheese on the side for a complete meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal Cleanup: Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights with just 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Comforting and Delicious: Rich, flavorful pasta that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Tips

• Noodle Tips: Break spaghetti in half if your pot is small to ensure even cooking.
• Cream Cheese: Don’t skip the cream cheese for a creamier, richer sauce.
• Seasoning: Adjust salt and pepper to taste after adding the broth and sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat as an alternative to ground beef.
• Vegetables: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute spaghetti with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
• Broth: Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, short pasta like penne or rotini works well. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

What if the sauce is too thick?
Add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but the pasta may absorb more sauce when stored. Add extra marinara or broth when reheating.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
• Serve with garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks for a classic pairing.
• Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley for added freshness and color.

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Enjoy this hearty, flavorful one-pot spaghetti that’s perfect for a cozy dinner!