Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs
Hate reading? ME TOO! That’s why I’ve included some videos below.
I’m thrilled to share my go-to pressure cooker pasta recipe. It’s perfect for busy weeknights. This Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs is a game-changer for anyone craving a quick dinner without losing flavor.
This one-pot meal combines tender meatballs, al dente spaghetti, and rich tomato sauce. The best part? It’s ready in a fraction of the time it takes to make traditional spaghetti and meatballs.
Get ready to fall in love with this fuss-free, delicious twist on a classic favorite. Let’s dive into why this Instant Pot recipe will become your new favorite way to enjoy spaghetti and meatballs!
5 Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe
I’m excited to share why this Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe is amazing. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and I think you’ll love it too.
This recipe saves a lot of time. I can make dinner in about 20 minutes. It’s great for when I’m busy with work and family.
It’s also easy to clean up. Since it’s made in one pot, there are fewer dishes to wash. I love easy kitchen tasks.
This recipe is also good for your wallet. It costs less than $1 per serving. You get great taste without spending a lot.
It’s a hit with my family too. It’s easy to make more for big groups or to have leftovers for lunch the next day.
I also love how you can change it up. You can use different pasta, meatballs, or sauces. It never gets old!
“This Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs has revolutionized my weeknight dinners. It’s quick, easy, and delicious!”
With all these great points, it’s a favorite in my home. Try it out and I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do!
Exact Ingredients List (+ Possible Substitutes)
This recipe is super easy! Here’s what you’ll need for Instant Pot spaghetti and meatballs:
- 1 pound frozen meatballs
- 8 ounces uncooked spaghetti noodles
- 24 ounces pasta sauce
- 3 cups water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper (seasonings)
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil
If you don’t have these items, don’t worry! Here are some substitutes:
- Swap spaghetti for penne or fusilli
- Use Italian-style meatballs for extra flavor
- Replace Parmesan with mozzarella
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
This recipe is really versatile. You can change the seasonings to your liking. Sometimes I add garlic powder or Italian herbs for more taste. The best part is how easy it is to make it your own!
Instructions
Making spaghetti and meatballs in the Instant Pot is super easy. Let’s get started!
First, I put the meatballs in the Instant Pot. Then, I lay the spaghetti over the meatballs. This makes sure everything cooks evenly.
I add olive oil on top to stop the spaghetti from sticking. This is a key step.
Next, I pour in the pasta sauce and water. Make sure the spaghetti is covered. Don’t stir it yet.
Then, I close the lid and set it to high pressure for 10 minutes. This cooks the meal fast.
After cooking, I do a quick release of pressure. This makes the pasta just right. Then, I open the lid and mix everything together.
Finally, I add Parmesan cheese and fresh basil on top. And that’s it! A tasty, one-pot meal is ready in no time.
“The Instant Pot has changed how I make spaghetti and meatballs. It’s quick, easy, and always turns out great!”
Tips, Tricks & Storing
I love sharing my cooking secrets! When making Instant Pot spaghetti and meatballs, I always crisscross noodles to prevent sticking. This simple trick works wonders. I avoid stirring before cooking to sidestep those pesky burn warnings. A drizzle of olive oil helps keep those noodles separate too.
Craving a saucier dish? I toss in extra pasta sauce. The sauce consistency improves if you let it rest briefly after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken perfectly.
Leftovers are a breeze to handle. I store mine in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay good for 4-5 days. Reheating is easy – I use the microwave or stovetop. If the sauce seems thick, I add a splash of water to loosen it up.
- Crisscross noodles for even cooking
- Add olive oil to prevent sticking
- Let the dish rest for perfect sauce consistency
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days
These tips make your Instant Pot spaghetti and meatballs a hit every time. Give them a try and enjoy your perfectly cooked pasta!
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
I love making homemade meatballs for this recipe. It makes the dish special and lets me pick the flavors. Try using different pasta shapes like fusilli or penne. They soak up the sauce well and change the look of the dish.
Want vegetarian options? Use plant-based meatballs or add more veggies. Mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers are great choices. You can also try chickpea or cassava pasta for a grain-free meal. Just watch the cooking time, as it might change.
For side dishes, garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad are my go-tos. Roasted broccoli or corn on the cob are also yummy. Add fresh basil, extra Parmesan cheese, or red pepper flakes for more flavor. These touches make the meal feel extra special.
Jenny has always been passionate about cooking, and she uses her platform to share her joy of food with others. Her recipes are easy to follow, and she loves giving tips and tricks to help others create their own unique culinary creations.