Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs is a delightful and convenient dish that brings the classic comfort of homemade spaghetti and meatballs to your table in a fraction of the time. Using the Instant Pot, you can achieve a rich and flavorful meal with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or any time you crave a hearty, home-cooked meal.
I remember the first time I tried making spaghetti and meatballs in the Instant Pot. I was skeptical about whether the pasta would cook properly or if the flavors would meld together as well as they do with the traditional stovetop method. To my surprise, the dish turned out perfectly, with tender meatballs, al dente spaghetti, and a rich, savory sauce. It has since become a staple in my kitchen, especially when I need a quick and satisfying dinner for my family.
Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil
½ onion, chopped
1 lb ground beef
2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
3 tsp minced garlic
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
1 jar pasta sauce
3 cups water
1 lb spaghetti pasta
1 can diced tomatoes
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat and Onions
Saute the Onions:
Turn on the Instant Pot and set it to the sauté function. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the bottom of the pot.
Once the oil is hot, add ½ chopped onion. Sauté the onions until they become softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Cook the Meat:
Add 1 pound of ground beef to the Instant Pot with the onions. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks.
Season the meat with 2 teaspoons of garlic powder, 3 teaspoons of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
Continue to sauté until the meat is fully cooked through and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
Drain and Set Aside:
Once the meat is cooked, carefully drain any excess fat from the Instant Pot. Use a slotted spoon to remove the meat mixture from the pot and set it aside for later.
Step 2: Prepare the Pasta
Add Water:
Turn off the sauté function on the Instant Pot. Pour 1½ cups of water into the pot, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. This helps prevent the “Burn” notice during pressure cooking.
Layer the Spaghetti:
Break 1 pound of spaghetti noodles in half and layer them in a crisscross or “x” pattern in the bottom of the pot. This layering helps prevent the noodles from sticking together as they cook.
Add Sauce and Tomatoes:
Pour 1 jar of pasta sauce and 1 can of diced tomatoes over the noodles. Add the remaining 1½ cups of water, making sure the noodles are completely submerged in the liquid. Do not stir at this point, as keeping the layers intact helps with even cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Seal and Cook:
Place the lid on the Instant Pot and ensure it is set to the sealing position. Select the manual or pressure cook function and set the timer for 5 minutes on high pressure.
Natural Release:
Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 5 minutes. This gradual release helps prevent the pasta from overcooking.
Quick Release:
After the natural release period, carefully turn the valve to the venting position to release any remaining pressure. Be cautious of the steam.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Return Meat to the Pot:
Once the pressure is fully released and it is safe to open the lid, open the Instant Pot. Return the cooked meat mixture to the pot, stirring well to combine all the ingredients.
Stir and Serve:
Gently mix the spaghetti and meatballs until everything is well coated in the sauce and evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serve:
Serve the Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Variations and Substitutions
Different Meats: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different flavor profile.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with a plant-based ground meat alternative or use a mix of chopped vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spaghetti pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a bit of heat.
Additional Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers into the sauce for added nutrition.
Conclusion
Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs is a convenient and delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food with minimal effort. The Instant Pot not only saves time but also enhances the flavors, making this dish rich and satisfying. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a hearty meal on the table quickly.
The versatility of this dish allows for numerous variations and substitutions to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with new ingredients, this Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the ease and deliciousness of this modern take on a timeless classic.
