Introduction
Cooking a delicious meal doesn’t have to be complicated. One-pot spaghetti is a fantastic dish that combines simplicity with great flavor. If you’re tired of washing multiple pots and pans after dinner, this recipe might just become your new favorite. Follow along as we explore the simple trick to making the perfect one-pot spaghetti.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you get started, gather these ingredients:
- Spaghetti noodles (about 8 ounces)
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
- Garlic cloves (3 cloves, minced)
- Onion (1 medium, finely chopped)
- Crushed tomatoes (1 can, 28 ounces)
- Tomato paste (2 tablespoons)
- Italian seasoning (1 tablespoon)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Water (4 cups)
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. This step forms the flavorful base for your spaghetti.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Next, add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Add Spaghetti and Water
Break the spaghetti noodles in half and add them to the pot. Pour in 4 cups of water, ensuring that the noodles are submerged in the liquid. Stir gently to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Once the mixture comes to a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the spaghetti simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the spaghetti from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Once the spaghetti is cooked to your desired tenderness, remove the pot from the heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the one-pot spaghetti hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Pot: Use a large pot with a lid to accommodate the spaghetti noodles and enough liquid for cooking.
- Stir Occasionally: Stirring the spaghetti occasionally while it simmers helps distribute the flavors and prevents sticking.
- Adjust Liquid: If the spaghetti seems dry before it’s fully cooked, you can add a little more water, a quarter cup at a time, and continue simmering until done.
Conclusion
One-pot spaghetti is not only easy to make but also a satisfying meal for any day of the week. By following this simple trick and using fresh ingredients, you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table with minimal cleanup. Experiment with additional herbs or vegetables to personalize your one-pot spaghetti recipe. Enjoy the flavors and the simplicity of this dish!