Ultimate Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

It’s a cold, dreary Tuesday evening, and the thought of dinner feels like an ominous storm cloud looming overhead. Suddenly, the idea of Instant Pot Spaghetti and meatballs swoops in like a culinary superhero, promising to save the day with its delightful aromas wafting through my kitchen. Picture this: tender spaghetti drenched in a rich, savory marinara sauce, crowned with juicy meatballs that practically melt in your mouth. Just thinking about it makes my taste buds do a little happy dance! For more inspiration, check out this chicken burrito bowls recipe.

Now, let’s take a moment to reminisce about those family dinners where everyone gathered around a table filled with laughter and steaming plates of spaghetti. My childhood was steeped in Italian traditions, where pasta was not just food; it was love served on a plate! And guess what? This recipe is perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting friends for game night or just looking to indulge after a long workday. Italian sausage and peppers Get ready for an incredible flavor experience that will have you saying “Mamma Mia!” before you even take that first bite.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Spaghetti and meatballs

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Spaghetti: Use regular or whole wheat spaghetti; either works beautifully in the Instant Pot.
• Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef for tender meatballs without too much grease.
• Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs together while adding texture; use plain or Italian-seasoned.
• Egg: One large egg helps hold the meatball mixture together; it’s like the glue that binds all deliciousness.
• Marinara Sauce: A jar of your favorite marinara sauce elevates flavors; homemade is great if you have time!
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds richness to both the meatballs and the final dish—don’t skip it!
• Italian Seasoning: This blend brings out robust flavors in your meatballs; feel free to add more herbs if you love them!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Instant Pot Spaghetti and meatballs

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until fully combined but don’t overwork it—no one wants tough meatballs!

Step 2: Shape Meatballs

Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. You should get about twelve hearty ones. Place them on a plate while you prepare the next step.

Step 3: Sauté Meatballs

Turn on your Instant Pot and set it to sauté mode. Add a splash of olive oil and brown the meatballs for about three minutes on each side until golden brown. Don’t worry if they’re not fully cooked yet; they’ll finish cooking later!

Step 4: Add Sauce and Pasta

Pour the marinara sauce over the browned meatballs in the pot. Break spaghetti in half and nestle it among the meatballs. Pour enough water over everything until just submerged—no more than two cups!

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Close the lid of your Instant Pot securely and set it to high pressure for eight minutes. Once done cooking, let it naturally release pressure for five minutes before manually releasing any remaining steam.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Give everything a good stir once you open that magical lid! The spaghetti should be perfectly cooked with some saucy goodness clinging to each strand. Transfer to plates and sprinkle with extra parmesan cheese for that perfect finishing touch.

Enjoy every flavorful bite as you savor this comforting meal that brings back memories while creating new ones around your dinner table!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the meatballs in the Instant Pot for that golden crust. Meanwhile, sauté onions and garlic for a flavor boost. Then, add spaghetti and sauce before pressure cooking to achieve perfectly tender pasta every time.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or even plant-based options for a lighter twist. Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano, or toss in some veggies like bell peppers for added nutrition and crunch. stuffed bell peppers.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water to prevent drying out, and microwave until heated through or warm on the stovetop.

My first attempt at this Instant Pot spaghetti and meatballs recipe was met with rave reviews from my family. They declared it “restaurant-worthy,” which made me feel like a culinary rockstar!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Instant Pot Spaghetti and meatballs?

To prepare Instant Pot Spaghetti and meatballs, gather essential ingredients like spaghetti noodles, ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. You will also need water or broth to cook the pasta properly. Fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese can enhance the flavor of your dish. Make sure to have all these ingredients handy before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process. For more inspiration, check out this creamy lemon shrimp pasta recipe.

How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Spaghetti and meatballs?

Cooking Instant Pot Spaghetti and meatballs is quick and convenient. The entire process typically takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes time for sautéing the meatballs and cooking the spaghetti under pressure. Once you set the Instant Pot to cook for around 8-10 minutes on high pressure, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Preparing this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying dinner with minimal effort.

Can I use frozen meatballs in my Instant Pot recipe?

Absolutely! Using frozen meatballs in your Instant Pot Spaghetti and meatballs is a great time-saver. Just add them directly to the pot without thawing beforehand. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly; typically, adding an extra minute or two ensures they heat through completely. The Instant Pot will still deliver tender spaghetti and flavorful sauce, making it an excellent choice for a quick meal option.

What can I serve with Instant Pot Spaghetti and meatballs?

Instant Pot Spaghetti and meatballs pairs well with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Consider serving a fresh green salad with vinaigrette dressing for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks make excellent accompaniments too. vegetable minestrone soup For added nutrition, steamed vegetables like broccoli or zucchini can complete your meal beautifully. Enjoy this hearty dish alongside your favorite sides for a well-rounded dining experience.

Conclusion for Instant Pot Spaghetti and meatballs:

In conclusion, Instant Pot Spaghetti and meatballs is a delightful recipe that simplifies dinner preparation while delivering fantastic flavors. By using simple ingredients such as pasta, meatballs, and marinara sauce, you can create a comforting meal in just 30 minutes. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different seasonings or serve it alongside various sides to suit your taste preferences. This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you crave something hearty yet easy to make. Enjoy your delicious creation!