When you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner option, cooking Instant Pot Spaghetti can be a game-changer. This one-pot wonder not only promises a luscious meal in a jiffy but also minimizes cleanup time, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
Growing up, spaghetti nights at my house were always a special affair. My grandmother, who was a wonderful cook, tweaked her traditional pasta recipe to suit our busy lifestyle and introduced us to the wonders of pressure cooking. Now, whenever I make this recipe in my Instant Pot, I’m instantly reminded of those cozy family dinners filled with laughter and delicious aromas wafting from the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe saves you time without compromising on flavor.
- Minimal Cleanup: As a one-pot meal, you’ll save time on washing dishes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Family-Friendly: The comforting taste of spaghetti is a hit with all ages, ensuring happy faces around the dinner table.
Ingredients Notes
For this delightful dish, you’ll need spaghetti noodles, Ground Beef, marinara sauce, onions, garlic, and a touch of Italian seasoning. Feel free to swap out the beef for ground turkey for a leaner option. Use your favorite store-bought marinara or homemade if you have some on hand.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode, add a splash of olive oil, and cook the onions until translucent. Add in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2
Add the Ground Beef to the pot. Brown the meat, breaking it apart with a spoon, until no pink remains.
Step 3
Pour in the marinara sauce and mix well. Add a bit of salt and your Italian seasoning.
Step 4
Break the spaghetti noodles in half and layer them over the meat mixture in a criss-cross pattern to avoid clumping. Add water just to cover the noodles and gently submerge them without stirring.
Step 5
Seal the Instant Pot and set to pressure cook on high for 10 minutes. Once done, perform a quick release. Carefully open the lid, stir, and serve hot.
Storage Options
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, place portions in freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to three months. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to restore moisture.
Variations & Substitutions
- Vegetarian: Swap the meat for your favorite veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a vibrant vegetarian dish.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spaghetti noodles, ensuring they are submerged during cooking.
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes to the seasoning for an extra kick of heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat pasta in this recipe? Yes, whole wheat pasta can be used, but bear in mind that it may have a slightly different texture and could require an additional minute of cooking time under pressure.
Is it possible to double the recipe? Absolutely! Just ensure the maximum fill line of your Instant Pot isn’t surpassed. Doubling the ingredients won’t require doubling the cooking time.
How can I avoid the burn notice on the Instant Pot? To prevent a burn notice, make sure there’s enough liquid to cover the pasta and avoid stirring the noodles into the sauce before cooking. Layer carefully and press down gently.
