One-pot spaghetti with fresh tomato sauce

This one-pot spaghetti features fresh tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fragrant basil, all simmered together for a rich sauce. It's a simple, quick meal with minimal cleanup, perfect for busy weeknights.

03 Jan 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

12 oz pasta
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp canned tomato paste
4 garlic cloves
2 tomatoes
12 leafs basil
1 tsp red pepper (spice)
1 dash salt
8 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
One-pot spaghetti with fresh tomato sauce

One-pot spaghetti with fresh tomato sauce is a delicious and easy-to-make meal that combines the simplicity of pasta with the flavors of fresh tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fragrant basil. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe allows you to minimize cleanup while maximizing taste.

Instructions:

1. Prep Work:
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Finely chop the tomatoes.
- Tear the basil leaves.
- Grate the parmesan cheese if not already grated.
2. Cook the Pasta:
- In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of water to a boil with a dash of salt.
- Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
3. Make the Tomato Sauce:
- In the same pot, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and cook for another minute.
4. Add Fresh Ingredients:
- Add the finely chopped tomatoes to the pot and stir well to combine.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes break down and form a sauce.
- Add the red pepper flakes and a dash of salt to the tomato mixture, stirring to incorporate.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Return the cooked pasta to the pot with the tomato sauce.
- Add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, stirring until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
6. Finish with Basil and Cheese:
- Add the torn basil leaves to the pot and toss to distribute evenly.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in 8 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
7. Serve:
- Dish up the spaghetti onto plates or into bowls.
- Garnish with additional parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired.
8. Enjoy:
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious one-pot spaghetti with fresh tomato sauce!

With its rich, tomatoey sauce and vibrant basil flavor, one-pot spaghetti with fresh tomato sauce is a perfect meal for any occasion. This recipe not only saves you time and reduces cleanup but also ensures that every bite is packed with delicious, fresh flavors. Enjoy your homemade Italian feast!

One-pot spaghetti with fresh tomato sauce FAQ:

How long do I cook the spaghetti for?

Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente, which typically ranges from 8 to 12 minutes depending on the brand.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute fresh tomatoes with canned diced tomatoes for convenience. Use about 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes in place of the two fresh tomatoes.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pot over low heat, adding a bit of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

What can I substitute for parmesan cheese?

If you need a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor. For a vegan option, you can also try vegan parmesan cheese.

How do I adjust the spiciness of the dish?

To adjust the spiciness, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes for a milder flavor. Alternatively, add more for extra heat according to your preference.

Cooking Tips:

- Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor. If fresh tomatoes are not available, you can use high-quality canned tomatoes.

- Make sure to finely chop the garlic to release its full flavor into the sauce.

- Adjust the amount of red pepper according to your taste preference. If you like it spicy, add a pinch more.

- Save a little bit of the starchy pasta water to add to the sauce if it seems too thick. This helps to create a silky texture.

- For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of white wine to the tomato sauce for a bit of acidity and depth.

- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a finishing touch to the dish, but you can also experiment with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 380kcal
Protein 16g
Carbohydrates 70g
Fiber 3.75g
Sugar 4.43g
Fat 14g

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