One Pot Pasta Bolognese Recipe – Easy Italian Dinner
This One Pot Pasta Bolognese Recipe is the perfect comfort meal for busy nights. Pasta cooks directly in a flavorful sauce made with ground beef, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, creating a rich and hearty dish in just one pot. The pasta absorbs all the delicious flavors as it simmers, resulting in a thick, satisfying Bolognese sauce that coats every bite. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this easy Italian-inspired recipe is ideal for family dinners and weeknight cooking.
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or mix of beef and pork)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes or passata
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 4 cups beef or chicken stock
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: splash of red wine, grated Parmesan, fresh basil
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a large pot. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook until softened.
- Brown Meat: Add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Add Tomatoes & Seasonings: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, herbs, and bay leaf. Add stock and bring to a simmer.
- Cook Pasta: Add pasta directly to the pot. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Simmer until pasta is al dente, about 12–15 minutes.
- Finish: Remove bay leaf. Stir in Parmesan and fresh basil if desired. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve Hot: Ladle into bowls and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Use enough liquid to cook pasta evenly.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Rest briefly after cooking to let sauce thicken.
- Make ahead: Sauce can be prepared in advance; add pasta when ready to cook.
- Variations: Swap proteins (chicken, sausage, lentils), use gluten‑free pasta, or add cream for a silky finish.