Vegan One-Pot Spaghetti Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple, comforting dinner that requires minimal cleanup but delivers maximum flavor, I’ve got the perfect dish for you. This Vegan One-Pot Spaghetti Recipe is one of my absolute favorites because it’s quick, hearty, and made in just one pot—yes, only one! Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just trying to eat more plant-based meals, you’ll love how fuss-free and delicious this recipe is.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Vegan One-Pot Spaghetti Recipe plays an important role in building layers of flavor, while being pantry-friendly and accessible. I’ll share a few tips on picking and prepping them along the way.

• Olive oil: Adds a lovely richness; you can swap with broth or water if you’re avoiding oil, but be ready to add a bit more liquid as needed.
• Onion: Diced—this creates the savory base that brings depth to the sauce.
• Garlic: Minced for that aromatic punch we all love in Italian dishes.
• Cremini mushrooms: Thinly sliced; they add a meaty texture and umami flavor—creminis are my go-to, but white button mushrooms work just fine.
• Bell pepper: Diced; I usually use red for sweetness or yellow for a mild, fresh bite.
• Sea salt: Enhances all the flavors—remember your marinara might already have salt, so taste before adding more!
• Dried oregano: Or an Italian seasoning blend—this herb brings that classic Italian comforting note.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Adds a gentle kick; adjust to your heat level preference.
• Marinara sauce: I love using good-quality brands like Rao’s or Organico Bello for authentic taste.
• Water: Helps cook the pasta right in the sauce, no extra pots needed.
• Dry gluten-free spaghetti: I prefer Jovial or Barilla for great texture; feel free to swap for any pasta shape you like!
• Spinach or greens (optional): Adds color and nutrition in the last step — I never skip this!

Variations

I love how this Vegan One-Pot Spaghetti Recipe is such a wonderful base that you can easily tweak to fit your mood, what’s in your fridge, or dietary preferences—feel free to get creative!

• Adding protein: When I want more substance, I toss in cooked lentils or crumbled tofu toward the end—it’s a game changer for added nutrition.
• Change up your greens: Sometimes I swap spinach for kale, Swiss chard, or even arugula for a peppery twist.
• Spicy punch: If you’re a heat lover, bump up the crushed red pepper flakes or add a splash of sriracha.
• Different pasta: Using short shapes like penne or rigatoni works great too—just adjust cooking time slightly.

How to Make Vegan One-Pot Spaghetti Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Your Veggies to Build Flavor

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the olive oil and wait about 30 seconds before adding diced onion. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the onions are translucent and just starting to brown. This little caramelization step makes a huge difference for the depth of flavor—you want to stir occasionally and turn the heat down if things start browning too quickly. Then, toss in garlic, mushrooms, bell pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir frequently for 5-7 minutes until the veggies soften and the mushrooms release their juices and start to caramelize.

Step 2: Spice It Up and Add the Sauce

Sprinkle in the dried oregano and red pepper flakes, stirring for about 1 minute to release those wonderful aromas. Next, pour in both jars of your marinara sauce and the water. Bring everything up to a gentle simmer. This is the moment where your kitchen will start smelling like an Italian trattoria—trust me, it’s one of my favorite parts!

Step 3: Add Pasta and Greens, Then Simmer Gently

Break the spaghetti in half (unless you’re using smaller pasta shapes) and add it right into the pot, stirring to separate any clumps. If you’re adding spinach or other greens, toss them in now so they gently wilt as the pasta cooks. Cover the pot, turn the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 13 minutes, stirring twice during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Final Touches and Resting Time

Once the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly, turn off the heat and let the pot sit, covered, for 2 minutes. This rest allows any remaining sauce to soak into the pasta. Give everything a good stir to break any last clumps and taste test for seasoning. Add more salt if needed or additional herbs and pepper flakes for extra flavor or heat.

How to Serve Vegan One-Pot Spaghetti Recipe

Garnishes

I love adding fresh basil on top right before serving—its bright herbal notes contrast beautifully with the savory sauce. A sprinkle of vegan parmesan cheese is the cherry on top for that cheesy richness you might miss in traditional spaghetti. Feel free to toss on some toasted pine nuts or chili oil if you’re feeling adventurous!

Side Dishes

This pasta is pretty satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some crusty garlic bread takes the meal up a notch. My family also loves roasted veggies on the side—think broccoli or zucchini tossed in olive oil and garlic, roasted until tender and golden.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, I like to serve this Vegan One-Pot Spaghetti Recipe in a big rustic bowl with lots of fresh herbs piled on top and a drizzle of good-quality olive oil. It not only looks inviting but encourages everyone to dig in family-style. You can also portion it into individual ramekins and broil quickly with vegan cheese for a bubbly, golden crust finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. The pasta does thicken as it sits, so before reheating, I stir in a splash of water or broth to loosen it back up.

Freezing

This recipe isn’t my favorite for freezing because the texture changes a bit, especially with gluten-free pasta. I recommend enjoying fresh or refrigerating instead for best flavor and texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring and adding a splash of water until it’s warmed through and nicely saucy. Microwave works too—just cover loosely and stir every minute or so for even heat.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Vegan One-Pot Spaghetti Recipe comes together with minimal effort but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. It’s been a lifesaver on busy nights when I want comforting, wholesome food without the fuss or mess. I can’t recommend it enough if you want a fast, crowd-pleasing vegan meal that’s cozy and satisfying. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight pasta dish!

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