Mother'S One Pot Spaghetti
A hearty one-pot spaghetti dish combining ground beef, tomato sauce, and savory herbs, perfect for quick weeknight dinners and satisfying comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef and chopped onion in a very large skillet over medium heat, stirring until beef crumbles and is no longer pink. Drain off any fat.
- Return beef to the skillet. Stir in chicken broth, tomato paste, salt, oregano, garlic powder, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Add broken uncooked spaghetti to the skillet. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring often, for 15 minutes or until spaghetti is tender.
- Sprinkle with cheese and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the skillet after cooking the beef. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lighter taste. Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal. For added flavor, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. You could also serve it alongside Classic Italian Chicken Salad for a delightful dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the spaghetti cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out, and heat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mother'S One Pot Spaghetti contains roughly 435 calories, with 21g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (200% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (191% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1989mg per serving (86% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat spaghetti instead of regular spaghetti?
Yes, whole wheat spaghetti can be used as a healthier alternative. Just be sure to check the cooking time, as it may vary slightly compared to regular spaghetti. Keep an eye on it while simmering to achieve the desired tenderness.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can enhance the nutritional value and flavor. Just sauté them with the onion before adding the broth and tomato paste for best results.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stovetop, adding a little extra broth if needed to maintain the desired consistency. It’s a great option for meal prep!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).