Instant Pot Ground Beef Noodles

Okay, friend, let me tell you about this Instant Pot Ground Beef Noodles recipe. This one’s a total weeknight superhero. Think of it as the love child of a classic Hamburger Helper and the cozy comfort of spaghetti night, but way easier and honestly, way tastier. Remember those nights when your mom would whip up something quick and satisfying after a long day? This brings me right back. This version is amped up with rich flavors and a creamy texture that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Seriously, my kids devour it, and I love how little effort it takes. If you’re craving something hearty, flavorful, and ready in a flash, this is your new go-to.

What is instant pot ground beef noodles?

Alright, let’s break it down. Instant Pot Ground Beef Noodles is essentially a one-pot wonder that combines ground beef, noodles, a rich tomato-based sauce, and a creamy element – usually cheese or cream cheese – all cooked together in your Instant Pot. It’s essentially a deconstructed lasagna, without all the layering fuss! The “Instant Pot” part means it’s incredibly fast compared to traditional stovetop methods. Think of it as a leveled-up version of those childhood pasta dinners, but with a deeper flavor and much less cleanup. It’s a comfort food hug in a bowl, perfect for busy weeknights or when you just need a quick, satisfying meal.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Oh, where do I even begin? This recipe is more than just food; it’s a lifesaver. What I love most about this Instant Pot Ground Beef Noodles is how it satisfies my family’s cravings without me spending hours in the kitchen.

• Flavor Explosion:What is the combination of browned Ground Beef, savory tomato sauce, and that creamy cheese? What is the symphony in your Is it rich, comforting, and just plain delicious? I always add a little smoked paprika which gives it some depth. How much flavor is packed into a single bite?

• Ridiculously EasyIs it safe to dump everything in the Instant Pot and forget it? This is a game-changer on those nights when you’re juggling work, kids, and everything else life. What’s your way? Is it faster than ordering takeout?

• Budget FriendlyGround beef is a pretty economical protein, and the other ingredients are pantry staples. What is the best way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank?

• Super Versatile:Can you customize this dish to your family’s preferences? Add veggies, swap out the cheese, use different types of pasta – the possibilities are endless! I’ve thrown in some leftover roasted vegetables and it was amazing.

What is the recipe for Instant Pot Chili? Why do we need pasta? Is it the perfect balance of comfort and convenience?

How do I make Instant Pot Beef Noodles?

Quick Overview

Making Instant Pot Ground Beef Noodles is surprisingly straightforward. You’ll start by browning the ground beef right in the Instant Pot (less dishes, yay!). Then, you’ll add your noodles, tomato sauce, broth, and seasonings, give it a stir, and pressure cook for a few minutes. A quick release, a stir in of some cheese, and you’re ready to devour. The beauty of this method is that the noodles cook perfectly in the sauce, absorbing all that delicious flavor. It’s so easy, even my teenager can make it (and he does!).

Ingredients

For the Main Dish:
• 1 pound GROUND BEEF (I prefer 80/20 for flavor, but leaner works too) (in a jar)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar marinara sauce (I like Rao’s for the best flavor, but any will do) (you can substitute any brand)
• 4 cups beef broth (low sodium is best so you can control the salt)
• 1 (12-ounce) package egg noodles (or your favorite short pasta shape)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (trust me on this one!)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Finish:
• 4 ounces Cream Cheese, softened (or 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese)

How do I follow step

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Turn your Instant Pot to sauté. Once it’s hot, add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t worry if there are some browned bits stuck to the bottom – that’s flavor! Drain off any excess grease.

Step 2: Saute Aromatics

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the Instant Pot. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the onion is softened and translucent. This step is crucial for building flavor, so don’t skip it! I always make sure the garlic doesn’t burn – burnt garlic is the worst.

Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients

Pour in the marinara sauce and beef broth. Stir well to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot (this is called deglazing, and it prevents the dreaded “burn” notice). Add the egg noodles, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, making sure the noodles are mostly submerged in the liquid. I find that breaking the noodles in half before adding them helps them cook more evenly.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

How do you close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to “Sealing.” ” Cook on “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” for 5 minutes. Does the Instant Pot take a few minutes to come to pressure? Cooking immediately.

Step 5: Quick Release

Once the cooking time is up, do a quick release by carefully turning the valve to “Venting. “Be careful of the steam! Once the pressure is fully released and the pin drops, you can open the lid.

Step 6: Stir in Cream Cheese

Add the cream cheese (or shredded cheddar cheese) to the Instant Pot and stir until melted. Add salt and pepper to taste. If you use cheddar cheese, it might take a little longer to melt, so just keep stirring. I sometimes add a splash of milk or cream if it seems too thick.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve immediately and garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired. What are some great Instant Pot Beef Noodle recipes? What are some good side salads for soaking up the sauce?

What should I serve it with?

What is a perfect recipe for ground beef noodles? Is there something extra on the side? What are some of the best ideas?

For a light lunch:What is a good salad to serve with vinaigrette dressing? I like to add cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for extra freshness.

For a family dinner:Serve with garlic bread for dipping in the sauce. My kids love this combination!

For a Cozy Night In: Pair with a glass of red wine and a side of roasted vegetables, like broccoli or Brussels sprouts. This makes for a comforting and satisfying meal.

I’ve even been known to serve this with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for an extra creamy touch. It’s all about experimenting and finding what you love!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Instant Pot Ground Beef Noodles

Over the years, I’ve made this Instant Pot Ground Beef Noodles recipe countless times, and I’ve learned a few tricks along the way:

Browning the Beef: Don’t overcrowd the pot when browning the ground beef. If you have a lot of beef, it’s better to do it in batches. This ensures that the beef browns properly instead of steaming.

Deglazing the Pot: Make sure to scrape up all those browned bits from the bottom of the pot after browning the beef. This not only prevents the “burn” notice but also adds tons of flavor to the sauce.

Noodle Choice: I prefer egg noodles for this recipe, but you can use any short pasta shape you like, such as rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pasta shapes may require slightly different cooking times.

Liquid Ratio: The key to perfectly cooked noodles in the Instant Pot is the liquid ratio. You want just enough liquid to cover the noodles, but not so much that they become mushy. If you’re using a different type of pasta, you may need to adjust the amount of liquid accordingly.

Cheese Options: I usually use cream cheese for this recipe because it melts easily and adds a lovely creaminess to the sauce. But you can also use shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, or even a combination of cheeses. Just make sure the cheese is softened or shredded before adding it to the Instant Pot.

Spice it Up: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the recipe for a little heat. Or, you can add a dash of hot sauce to the finished dish.

One time, I accidentally added too much broth, and the noodles turned out a little mushy. I learned my lesson! Now, I always measure the broth carefully. And, if I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll throw in some chopped vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.

Storing and Reheating Tips

This Instant Pot Ground Beef Noodles is even better the next day! Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Refrigerator Storage: Store the leftover noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let the noodles cool completely before storing them.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the noodles in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Instructions: To reheat the noodles, you can either microwave them or heat them on the stovetop. If microwaving, add a splash of water or broth to prevent them from drying out. If reheating on the stovetop, add a little bit of water or broth and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

I usually add a little extra cheese when reheating, just to make it extra delicious. And, if the noodles seem a little dry after reheating, I’ll add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to make them creamy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works perfectly well in this recipe. Just make sure to drain off any excess grease after browning it. You might also want to add a little extra seasoning, as ground turkey can be a bit bland on its own.

Can I make this without an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can! Simply brown the ground beef in a large pot or Dutch oven on the stovetop. Then, add the remaining ingredients, bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! This recipe is a great way to sneak in some extra veggies. You can add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or even frozen peas or corn. Just add them along with the other ingredients before pressure cooking.

Can I use a different type of sauce?

Of course! If you’re not a fan of marinara sauce, you can use a different type of tomato-based sauce, such as spaghetti sauce or even a creamy tomato sauce. You can also experiment with different flavors by adding a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies or a jar of roasted red peppers.

My Instant Pot says “burn.” What do I do?

The “burn” notice usually means that there’s not enough liquid in the pot or that food is stuck to the bottom. Immediately turn off the Instant Pot and release the pressure manually. Open the lid and add a little more liquid, such as beef broth or water. Stir well to scrape up any stuck food from the bottom of the pot. Then, close the lid and try pressure cooking again.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – my go-to Instant Pot Ground Beef Noodles recipe! I truly hope you give this one a try. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, picky eaters, and anyone who loves a comforting, flavorful meal. The best part? It’s so easy to customize to your own tastes. If you’re a fan of this recipe, you might also enjoy my Instant Pot Mac and Cheese or my One-Pot Pasta Primavera – both are equally quick and delicious. Happy cooking, friends! And please, let me know how yours turns out. I love hearing about your variations and experiences in the kitchen!

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