One Pot Pasta Bolognese Recipe

If you’re craving comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this One Pot Pasta Bolognese Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a hearty, flavorsome, and incredibly satisfying dish that combines the rich, meaty goodness of Bolognese sauce with the simple delight of perfectly cooked pasta, all made in just one pot. With minimal mess and maximum flavor, this recipe turns a classic Italian favorite into a weeknight hero that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This One Pot Pasta Bolognese Recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that are easy to find but essential for building that deep, savory flavor and pleasing texture. Each adds something unique, from the richness of beef to the aromatic herbs and spice that bring the sauce alive.

• 1 tbsp olive oil: Perfect for sautéing and adding a subtle fruity base to the dish.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic infuses the sauce with its aromatic, slightly spicy note.
• 1 onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when softened, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes.
• 500g / 1 lb lean beef mince: The hearty protein that forms the backbone of your Bolognese.
• 700g / 24.5 oz tomato passata: Smooth, rich tomato puree that gives the sauce its luscious color and tang.
• 3 cups beef broth: Enhances the savory flavor and helps the pasta cook perfectly in the sauce.
• 2 tsp Italian mixed herbs: A fragrant mix of oregano, basil, and thyme that brings authentic Italian flair.
• 1/4 – 1/2 tsp chili flakes: Adds just a hint of warmth for a subtle kick (adjust to your taste preference).
• 2 tsp Worcestershire Sauce: Boosts umami with its complex, slightly tangy character.
• 2 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
• 3/4 tsp salt and 3/4 tsp pepper: Essential seasoning to tie all flavors together perfectly.
• 350g / 12 oz spaghetti, uncooked: The pasta that soaks up all those brilliant flavors while cooking directly in the sauce.
• Parmesan cheese: For grating over the finished dish to add a sharp, creamy finish.

How to Make One Pot Pasta Bolognese Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over high heat. Toss in the minced garlic and finely chopped onion and cook them for about two minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. This step forms the flavorful base of your sauce, so don’t rush it—letting the onion soften fully develops sweetness that balances the acidity of the tomato.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Once your aromatics are ready, add the lean beef mince directly into the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat apart as it cooks, stirring frequently. You want to cook it until all the beef has turned from pink to a nice brown. This caramelization builds rich, savory notes that take this One Pot Pasta Bolognese Recipe to the next level.

Step 3: Add the Tomato Passata

Pour the velvety tomato passata over the browned beef, letting it mingle and infuse. This tomato puree is the heart of the sauce, providing luscious texture and a vibrant red hue that makes the dish so inviting.

Step 4: Rinse the Passata Bottle

To capture every bit of flavor, pour some of the beef broth into the empty tomato passata bottle, give it a good shake to loosen any leftover sauce, and add it to the pot. This little trick ensures nothing delicious goes to waste.

Step 5: Add the Remaining Ingredients

Pour in the rest of the beef broth along with the Italian mixed herbs, chili flakes, Worcestershire Sauce, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together well. Now bring the mixture to a boil, so all these beautiful flavors have a chance to meld perfectly before you add your pasta.

Step 6: Add the Spaghetti

Fan out the uncooked spaghetti around the pot, trying to get it submerged in the liquid. Let it sit for about 30 seconds so the pasta starts to soften before using your spoon to gently push the strands under the surface, ensuring even cooking.

Step 7: Cook the Pasta

Once the spaghetti is fully submerged, keep the pot bubbling gently. Stir every minute or so to prevent sticking and promote even cooking. Around 8 minutes in, reduce the heat to medium to avoid burning the pasta at the bottom, but keep the sauce bubbling so the pasta cooks nicely in the flavorful liquid.

Step 8: Finish Cooking Off the Heat

When your pasta is just barely firmer than you like, and the sauce is still saucy (usually at about 12 minutes), remove the pot from the stove. Toss the pasta and sauce vigorously for about 30 seconds—this step lets the sauce thicken naturally and the pasta to finish cooking to perfect tenderness.

Step 9: Serve Immediately with Parmesan

Scoop generous portions into bowls and finish with a shower of freshly grated Parmesan. The cheese melts slightly into the warm pasta, creating that classic creamy, savory finish that makes this dish unforgettable.

How to Serve One Pot Pasta Bolognese Recipe

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes can elevate your One Pot Pasta Bolognese Recipe wonderfully. Try sprinkling with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a pop of green and freshness. For a touch of creaminess and tang, a dollop of mascarpone or a drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil on top works beautifully alongside the Parmesan.

Side Dishes

While this recipe is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with a fresh side salad—think crisp rocket with a lemon vinaigrette—or a crusty garlic bread can add contrasting textures and flavors. A simple green veggie like steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus also complements the richness of the Bolognese without overpowering it.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests or make mealtime more fun, serve the One Pot Pasta Bolognese Recipe in individual rustic bowls or shallow plates for that cozy, family-style vibe. For a special touch, you can turn it into a pasta bake by layering the cooked dish in a casserole, topping with mozzarella and baking until golden and bubbly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dish stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, so leftovers can be even more delicious than the day of cooking. Just be sure to keep it covered to maintain freshness and avoid drying out the pasta.

Freezing

One Pot Pasta Bolognese Recipe freezes well, making it ideal for meal prep. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Keep in mind that pasta can sometimes soften more during freezing, so it might be a bit tender after defrosting.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to prevent sticking, and heat just until warmed through to avoid overcooking the pasta. The stovetop method helps maintain that fresh-from-the-pot texture and flavor better than the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for spaghetti, feel free to use penne, rigatoni, or any pasta shape you love. Just make sure the pasta cooks fully in the liquid, adjusting cooking times as needed.

Is lean beef mince essential?

Lean beef is recommended to prevent excess grease in the dish, but you can use regular ground beef if you prefer. Just drain any excess fat after browning to keep the sauce from becoming oily.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can swap the beef mince for a plant-based mince or finely chopped mushrooms for a vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and the flavor will still be rich and satisfying.

How spicy is this recipe?

The recipe includes chili flakes, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste. Leave them out for a milder dish or add more if you like some heat in your Bolognese.

Why cook the pasta in the sauce?

Cooking pasta directly in the sauce allows the noodles to absorb all the delicious flavors, creating a wonderfully integrated dish without needing to drain excess water. This is what makes the One Pot Pasta Bolognese Recipe especially satisfying and convenient.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely hope you give this One Pot Pasta Bolognese Recipe a try because it’s not only packed with amazing flavors but also simplifies dinner like no other. It’s a dish that brings comfort, ease, and deliciousness all in one pot, making busy evenings something to look forward to. Once you taste that perfect balance of rich sauce with tender pasta, you’ll see why this recipe has earned a special place in so many hearts.

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