One Pot Rigatoni Bolognese

Rigatoni Bolognese is a classic Italian dish. It's perfect for a special occasion, yet super easy to make. This recipe delivers on all fronts. BUT this great recipe takes just 30 minutes to make. Clean-up is minimal because it's all made in one pot!

Next time try the Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole!

Jump to:

• What makes this recipe irresistible
• Ingredients you’ll need
• Variations
• Step-by-step instructions
• Watch and learn: recipe video
• Essential tools for this recipe
• Frequently asked questions (FAQ’s)
• Deb’s tips for the perfect dish
• How to store leftovers
• Repurpose your leftovers
• More recipes you’ll love
• Perfect pairings: what to serve with
• Rigatoni Bolognese Recipe

What makes this recipe irresistible

This is my favorite one-pot pasta recipe! There is no need to boil a large pot of salted water first; everything happens in one pot!

It requires basic ingredients AND it's a quick 30 minute meal. It will quickly become your favorite pasta dish. It's packed with flavors that your entire family will enjoy!

Ingredients you’ll need

You'll only need a few simple ingredients. For the exact measurements, please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post. 

• ground beef or ground turkey
• mild Italian sausage 
• yellow onion
• carrot
• celery stalk
• marinara sauce
• tomato paste
• beef broth
• rigatoni pasta
• grated parmesan

Variations

• You can use just about any type of pasta - penne, rotini, orecchiette pasta would be amazing as well.
• Add a little heat to pasta recipes by sprinkling in a dash of red pepper flakes and black pepper to the sauce. Fresh herbs will add flavor.
• Add some hidden veggies. Finely dice green pepper, carrots, mushrooms, or red pepper to add to the sauce.
• If you prefer a chunky meat sauce, you can add a can of diced tomatoes to your sauce. If you do add ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
• Do you enjoy a creamy bolognese sauce? Add ½ cup of milk or heavy cream at the end to give this sauce a rich creamy texture.

Instead of ground pork sausage, you can use turkey or chicken sausage—bonus? This budget-friendly option will save you money!

Step-by-step instructions

This is an overview of the instructions. For the complete directions just scroll down to the bottom!

1. In a large stockpot over medium heat, brown the ground beef and sausage. Drain fat if desired.
2. Add the tomato paste and chopped vegetables to the pot with the beef and cook over medium heat. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened, stirring often.
3. Pour in the broth and pasta sauce into the pot, scraping the browned bits off the bottom of the pan. Stir to combine.
4. Now add the pasta. Stir and make sure the pasta is covered with liquid. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the pasta is al dente, about 14-15 minutes.
5. When pasta is tender, remove from heat and stir in grated parmesan. Serve with additional grated parmesan - enjoy!

Watch and learn: recipe video

Click on the image to watch this fun video and see me make this recipe from start to finish with extra tips! (Video opens in a new tab).

Essential tools for this recipe

• large dutch oven or large pot with a lid
• chefs knife and cutting board
• measuring cup and spoon

Frequently asked questions (FAQ’s)

• Chop the vegetables into even-sized portions so that they cook evenly.
• Of course you can make your own marinara sauce if you'd prefer.
• Garnish with fresh basil, fresh parsley, or additional grated parmesan cheese.
• If you are cooking with very lean ground beef, you can add a little olive oil to the bottom of your saucepan to prevent the beef and sausage from sticking to the bottom.

How to store leftovers

Refrigerate -  Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Freezer - This dish freezes well. To freeze, place the cooled pasta and sauce in a freezer bag or airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheat - Reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through. Or in the microwave, heat in 30-second increments until warmed through.

Repurpose your leftovers

Turn your leftovers into a casserole by adding it to a baking dish and topping with shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover with foil, then place in the oven at 350 degrees until the cheese melts.

If your pasta seems dry, add ½ to 1 cup of tomato sauce. Stir it together and top it with a little more parmesan cheese.

Hmmm.... you may want to double the recipe so you have a casserole to freeze!

More recipes you’ll love

• If you love cheesy pasta recipes, you may also enjoy this Ground Sausage Peppers and Onions Pasta.
• Save money by not eating out and make this Copycat Cheesecake Factory Chicken and Broccoli Pasta recipe at home.
• The Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Peppers is another terrific meal!
• Do you enjoy alfredo? If so, give this Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells recipe a try.

Perfect pairings: what to serve with

I serve this with a great red wine, but if you'd prefer white wine, that works as well. I'd suggest a dry chardonnay.

• Are you looking for the perfect side to serve with this favorite pasta recipe? Enjoy a simple green salad or this Copycat Outback Wedge Salad. It's fresh, flavorful, and pairs well with this hearty dish.
• A side of Steamed Brussels Sprouts will lighten up this rich meal.
• Do you have trouble having the perfect appetizer to serve with pasta recipes? These Italian Stuffed Mushrooms are just the appetizer that you are looking for.
• You'll definitely want these easy dinner rolls to sop up that delicious sauce!
• Want to end this meal with a simple and creamy dessert? This Butterscotch Pudding Dessert is easy to make, and full of sweet and creamy flavors.

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This is my favorite hack to turn what is normally very complicated into a simple weeknight meal! It tastes fancy enough for company and quick enough for a weeknight meal. What did you think? Share your thoughts below!