Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, most shapes work fine. Short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells hold up best, especially during simmering. Just avoid extra-thin or quick-cooking varieties, which can become mushy.

How can I make it without jarred sauce?

To make a 3 ingredient one pot pasta no sauce version, use crushed or diced tomatoes with seasonings like garlic, onion powder, and Italian herbs. You’ll get a fresher, more rustic flavor.

Can I make it creamy without heavy cream?

Yes, try cream cheese for a velvety version that still sticks to just three ingredients. If you're feeling adventurous, explore this smooth and simple cream cheese pasta that uses a similar trick.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Definitely. Let the pasta cool fully, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to bring back the sauce’s texture.

Can I turn this into a baked pasta?

You sure can. After cooking, transfer everything into an oven-safe dish, top with a sprinkle of cheese if you like, and bake at 375°F for about 10 minutes. This gives you a 3-ingredient pasta bake that’s bubbly and golden.

Easy 3-Ingredient One Pot Pasta Recipe

3-Ingredient One Pot Pasta (Easy Weeknight Dinner)

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This 3-ingredient one pot pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner — simple, hearty, and full of flavor. Made with pasta, ground meat, and marinara.

Author: Emily Parker
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: One Pot
Cuisine: American, Italian

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz pasta (rigatoni, rotini, or farfalle)
1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 jar (about 25 oz) marinara sauce
1 tsp salt
Optional: fresh basil, parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium-high heat, brown the ground meat, breaking it into small pieces. Add salt.
2. Reduce heat to medium and add the marinara sauce. Fill the empty jar with 3 cups of water and add to the pot. Stir to combine.
3. Add the pasta and stir again. Bring to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Add 1 more cup of water and cook for another 15 minutes, stirring until pasta is tender.
5. Remove from heat. Garnish with parmesan and fresh basil. Serve immediately.

Notes

Add cream cheese for a creamy variation.
Use diced tomatoes or tomato paste instead of jarred sauce for a no-sauce version.
Freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat with a splash of water or broth.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 420
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 950mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 27g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Find it online: https://www.flavourrecipe.com/3-ingredient-one-pot-pasta/