Instant Pot Spaghetti

The first time I made Instant Pot Spaghetti, it was one of those busy weeknights where everything seemed to be happening at once. I had just come back from work, the kids were hungry, and I had a million things on my mind. I wanted something quick, delicious, and comforting that wouldn’t take forever to prepare. That’s when I remembered my trusty Instant Pot. With just a few ingredients on hand, I was able to whip up a satisfying meal that everyone loved. In just under 30 minutes, we sat down to a plate of perfectly cooked spaghetti, smothered in sauce, and topped with fresh cheese. That night, I knew I had found a winner!

Essential Ingredients for Instant Pot Spaghetti

The ingredients for Instant Pot Spaghetti are simple yet essential for creating that comforting dish we all crave. The combination of meat, spices, and pasta ensures a flavorful experience that will leave you satisfied. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the rich spaghetti sauce to the fresh Parmesan cheese, coming together in perfect harmony.

• 1 pound lean ground beef or Italian sausage: This is the protein base of the dish, providing a hearty element and flavor.
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds richness and depth to the dish.
• ½ medium onion, diced: Onions impart sweetness and aroma, enhancing the overall taste.
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic: A must-have for flavor; it brings a punch of savory goodness.
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs is key to achieving that authentic Italian flavor.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning, it helps balance the flavors in the dish.
• 2 ½ cups low sodium beef broth: This liquid not only cooks the spaghetti but adds moisture and flavor.
• 16 ounces spaghetti noodles: The star of the dish, these noodles soak up the delicious sauce.
• 48 ounces spaghetti sauce: Choose your favorite brand to ensure a delicious base for the dish.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: It adds creaminess and a rich finish to the spaghetti.
• Chopped basil: Fresh herbs brighten up the dish and add a pop of color.
• Chopped parsley: Another fresh herb that enhances presentation and flavor.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who like a little heat, these flakes can be added to taste.

Instant Pot Spaghetti Instructions

Cooking Instant Pot Spaghetti is a breeze! Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve in no time. From sautéing the meat to sealing the pot for pressure cooking, each step is simple and straightforward.

1. Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Once it’s hot, add the olive oil to the pot and then toss in the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to break the meat apart, cooking it for about 3 to 4 minutes until it starts to brown and is mostly cooked through.
2. Next, add the diced onion to the pot. Continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent and softens, releasing its natural sweetness.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt to the meat mixture. Cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
4. Turn off the heat and carefully stir in ½ cup of beef broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
5. Now, break the spaghetti noodles in half and sprinkle them into the pot in a criss-cross manner. This prevents the noodles from clumping together during cooking.
6. Pour the spaghetti sauce over the noodles, followed by the remaining 2 cups of beef broth. Use a spatula to gently press the spaghetti down, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid.
7. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and lock it into place. Turn the valve to the ‘sealing’ position to prepare for pressure cooking.
8. Pressure cook on high for 8 minutes. Remember, this time doesn’t include the time needed for the pot to come to pressure.
9. Once the cooking time is up, carefully open the quick release valve to manually release the pressure. Be cautious of the steam!
10. Carefully remove the lid from the Instant Pot. Stir the spaghetti well to incorporate any standing liquid.
11. Finally, add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it’s melted and well combined. Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh Parmesan, basil, and red pepper flakes. Don’t forget the garlic bread on the side!

Make It Your Own

There are countless ways to customize Instant Pot Spaghetti to suit your taste. Here are some suggestions that will help you make this recipe even more special.

• Storage: Leftover spaghetti should be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, let your spaghetti cool completely and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be kept for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a lovely touch!
• Adding Vegetables: Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach when cooking the meat for extra nutrition.
• Using Different Pastas: Feel free to substitute spaghetti with other pasta types, such as penne or fusilli, for a fun twist.
• Turn Up the Heat: If you like it spicy, add more crushed red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños while cooking.

Serving Ideas for Instant Pot Spaghetti

When it comes to serving Instant Pot Spaghetti, the options are plentiful. This dish is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even a cozy night in.

• Pair with a Salad: A fresh garden salad is a great complement to the rich flavors of the spaghetti, providing a refreshing crunch.
• Garlic Bread: You can never go wrong with warm garlic bread on the side. It’s perfect for sopping up that delicious sauce!
• Wine Pairings: For those who enjoy wine, consider pairing this dish with a light red wine that complements the flavors.
• Serve for Special Occasions: This recipe is perfect for gatherings and special occasions like birthdays or family reunions, as it’s easy to prepare in large quantities.
• Comfort Food for Winter: Instant Pot Spaghetti is an ideal dish for chilly evenings, warming you from the inside out.
• Make It a Potluck Dish: Take this dish to potlucks or gatherings. It’s always a crowd-pleaser!

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Instant Pot Spaghetti is a delightful dish that combines convenience with flavor. Its simplicity makes it an excellent choice for any night of the week. I encourage you to try making this recipe at home; it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the deliciousness and the joy of cooking with your loved ones!

Instant Pot Spaghetti

The ultimate comfort food, Instant Pot Spaghetti is creamy, delicious, and incredibly easy to make. With its rich flavors and tender noodles, this dish will satisfy your cravings and make for a perfect weeknight dinner. Try it tonight for a quick and delightful meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Pasta

Cuisine Italian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Grater
• Skillet
• Chef's Knife
• Cutting Board
• Instant Pot

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound lean ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• ½ medium onion diced
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2.5 cups low sodium beef broth divided
• 16 ounces spaghetti noodles
• 48 ounces spaghetti sauce use your favorite brand and flavor
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese freshly grated
• chopped basil
• chopped parsley
• crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

 

• Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil to the pot and then add the ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes and then add the diced onion. Continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes or until the meat is mostly cooked.
• Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently. Turn off the heat.
• Stir in ½ cup of beef broth. Break the spaghetti noodles in half and sprinkle them into the Instant Pot, criss-crossing the noodles and making sure the spaghetti doesn’t lay in a big clump.
• Pour the spaghetti sauce over the noodles followed by the remaining 2 cups of beef broth. Gently press the spaghetti down with a spatula ensuring it’s covered by liquid.
• Place the lid on the Instant Pot and lock it into place. Turn the valve to the ‘sealing’ position. Pressure cook on high for 8 minutes (this does not include the time needed to pressurize the pot).
• When finished, open the quick release valve to manually release the pressure. Carefully remove the lid from the Instant Pot. Stir the spaghetti well to incorporate any standing liquid.
• Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir to combine. Serve immediately with additional fresh grated Parmesan, fresh basil, and/or red pepper flakes. Garlic bread on the side is a must!

Notes

• Storage: Leftover spaghetti should be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, let spaghetti cool and then transfer to a freezer safe, airtight container for up to 3 months. To thaw, place in the fridge overnight. Reheat by warming spaghetti in the microwave or on the stove top until heated through. Stir in a tablespoon or so of water or broth so the spaghetti isn’t too dry.

Keyword Easy Spaghetti Recipe, Instant Pot Spaghetti, One-Pot Pasta, Quick Dinner Ideas