The Best Instant Pot Spaghetti
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a steaming bowl of spaghetti, especially when it’s made effortlessly in your Instant Pot. This recipe for The Best Instant Pot Spaghetti combines flavorful ingredients, a few simple steps, and the magic of pressure cooking to create a delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Imagine this: a hearty plate of spaghetti, perfectly cooked and infused with rich flavors, all prepared in less than 30 minutes. The best part? You’ll only use one pot, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. The combination of ground beef, tomatoes, and aromatic spices creates a comforting sauce that clings to each strand of spaghetti. Plus, the Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting, making this a stress-free cooking experience.
The Essentials
To make The Best Instant Pot Spaghetti, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 lb ground beef (I used lean)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 12 oz. spaghetti noodles
- 3 cups water
- 15 oz can diced tomatoes
- 24 oz. crushed tomatoes or pasta sauce
Before You Start: Equipment
Before diving into the recipe, gather your equipment:
- Instant Pot: Make sure it’s clean and functioning properly.
- Wooden spoon: For stirring and breaking up the meat.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurements of ingredients.
- Cutting board and knife: For chopping garlic and other ingredients.
The Best Instant Pot Spaghetti: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Turn your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” setting. Once hot, add the olive oil and let it warm up. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it up with your wooden spoon, and cook until it’s no longer pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Sprinkle in the onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper as the meat cooks.
Step 3: Add the Noodles and Liquids
Once the beef is browned, it’s time to layer in the spaghetti noodles. Break them in half if needed, and lay them in a crisscross pattern to avoid clumping. Pour in the water, diced tomatoes, and crushed tomatoes or pasta sauce. Do not stir! Just gently press the noodles down into the liquid.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to “Sealing.” Set it to cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
Step 5: Quick Release
When the cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release by turning the valve to “Venting.” Once the pressure has fully released, open the lid and stir the spaghetti gently to combine.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Scoop the spaghetti into bowls and serve hot. You can garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or fresh basil if desired.
Substitutions by Diet
If you’re looking to make this recipe fit different dietary needs, consider these substitutions:
- Ground Beef: Substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter option.
- Spaghetti Noodles: Use whole wheat, gluten-free, or zucchini noodles for a healthier twist.
- Tomatoes: For a spicier kick, use diced tomatoes with green chilies.
- Italian Seasoning: Create your own blend with dried oregano, basil, and thyme.
Avoid These Traps
When making The Best Instant Pot Spaghetti, keep these common pitfalls in mind:
- Don’t stir the noodles before cooking; this can lead to clumping and uneven cooking.
- Pay attention to the cooking time; overcooking can lead to mushy spaghetti.
- Always make sure your Instant Pot is sealed properly to avoid any pressure cooking mishaps.
- Don’t skip the quick release step if you want a perfect al dente texture.
How to Store & Reheat
If you have leftovers (which is unlikely because this dish is so delicious), here’s how to store and reheat them:
Let the spaghetti cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to restore some moisture.
The Best Instant Pot Spaghetti FAQs
Can I double this recipe in my Instant Pot?
Yes, you can double the ingredients, but be mindful of the maximum fill line in your Instant Pot. Adjust the cooking time slightly if needed, but 8 minutes should still work for increased quantities.
What if I don’t have ground beef?
No problem! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute like lentils or textured vegetable protein to maintain a hearty texture.
Can I use fresh spaghetti instead of dried?
Yes, but fresh spaghetti cooks faster. Reduce the pressure cooking time to about 4-5 minutes for fresh pasta.
What should I serve with this spaghetti?
A simple side salad or some garlic bread pairs beautifully with The Best Instant Pot Spaghetti. You could also try School Cafeteria Spaghetti Meat Sauce for a nostalgic twist!
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The Takeaway
Cooking pasta in your Instant Pot has never been easier or more delicious. With The Best Instant Pot Spaghetti, you not only save time but also enjoy a flavorful meal that your whole family will love. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. So grab your Instant Pot, and let’s get cooking!
The Best Instant Pot Spaghetti
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Turn your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" setting. Once hot, add the olive oil and let it warm up. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
- Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it up with your wooden spoon, and cook until it’s no longer pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Sprinkle in the onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper as the meat cooks.
- Once the beef is browned, it’s time to layer in the spaghetti noodles. Break them in half if needed, and lay them in a crisscross pattern to avoid clumping. Pour in the water, diced tomatoes, and crushed tomatoes or pasta sauce. Do not stir! Just gently press the noodles down into the liquid.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to "Sealing." Set it to cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
- When the cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release by turning the valve to "Venting." Once the pressure has fully released, open the lid and stir the spaghetti gently to combine.
- Scoop the spaghetti into bowls and serve hot. You can garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- Let leftovers cool completely before storing in an airtight container; they last up to 3 days in the fridge.
- For a lighter option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti noodles for a healthier twist.
