This 3-ingredient one pot pasta is the ultimate quick and satisfying meal for busy days. With minimal ingredients and just one pot, you can create a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This 3-ingredient one pot pasta is incredibly simple, budget-friendly, and requires almost no cleanup. It’s packed with comforting flavors from the savory meat and rich marinara sauce, making it a family favorite that’s both filling and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef or turkey
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 jar (about 25 oz.) marinara sauce
- 12 ounces pasta (rotini, rigatoni, or farfalle)
- Optional: grated parmesan cheese
- Optional: fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef or turkey and cook, breaking it apart, until browned (about 6 minutes).
- Add salt and stir well.
- Pour in the marinara sauce.
- Add the uncooked pasta and enough water to fully cover the pasta.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium.
- Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and sauce thickens (about 10–12 minutes).
- Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes before serving.
This 3-ingredient one pot pasta is best served hot with parmesan and fresh basil on top.
Tips & Tricks
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking
- Use high-quality marinara for better flavor
- Add garlic or onion powder for extra depth
- Adjust water gradually to control sauce thickness
- Swap pasta shapes based on what you have
Details
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Notes: Can be made gluten-free with GF pasta
Notes
- Use beef sausage instead of ground meat for variation
- Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms
- Try whole wheat pasta for a healthier option
- Use turkey for a lighter version
Nutrition (Approximate)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 40g
- Fat: 18g
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like penne or shells works well.
Do I need to cook the pasta separately?
No, this is a true one pot recipe—everything cooks together.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, simply skip the meat or use plant-based alternatives.
What if my sauce is too thick?
Add a little water or broth to loosen it.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely, just use a larger pot and adjust liquid accordingly.
Storage
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Freezer: Freeze up to 2 months
- Reheat: Warm on stove with a splash of water
Similar Recipes
3-Ingredient One Pot Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef or turkey
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 jar about 25 oz. marinara sauce
- 12 ounces pasta rotini, rigatoni, or farfalle
- Optional: grated parmesan cheese
- Optional: fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef or turkey and cook, breaking it apart, until browned (about 6 minutes).
- Add salt and stir well.
- Pour in the marinara sauce.
- Add the uncooked pasta and enough water to fully cover the pasta.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium.
- Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and sauce thickens (about 10–12 minutes).
- Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes before serving.
- This 3-ingredient one pot pasta is best served hot with parmesan and fresh basil on top.
Notes
- Use beef sausage instead of ground meat for variation
- Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms
- Try whole wheat pasta for a healthier option
- Use turkey for a lighter version
Conclusion
This 3-ingredient one pot pasta is proof that simple ingredients can create a delicious and comforting meal. Quick, easy, and satisfying, it’s a go-to recipe you’ll want to make again and again.