Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs

Who doesn’t love a hearty plate of spaghetti and meatballs? With an Instant Pot, you can enjoy this classic Italian dish in a fraction of the time. Bursting with flavor and incredibly simple to make, Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to whip up this delicious meal in no time.

Preparing Ingredients:

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather all the necessary ingredients and prepare your Instant Pot.

• Gathering Ingredients:
  To make Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs, you’ll need:
  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil
  • ½ Onion, chopped
  • 1 lb Ground beef
  • 2 teaspoons Garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 3 teaspoons Minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 jar Pasta sauce
  • 3 cups Water
  • 1 lb Spaghetti pasta
  • 1 can Diced tomatoes
• Preparing the Instant Pot:
  Ensure your Instant Pot is clean and ready for use.

Cooking Process:

Now, let’s delve into the cooking process step by step.

• Sautéing Onions and Ground Beef:
• Add the oil to the bottom of the Instant Pot and set it to sauté.
• Sauté the onions until they are softened.
• Stir in the ground beef, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to taste. Sauté until the meat is cooked through.
• Drain any excess fat and transfer the meat mixture out of the Instant Pot. Set it aside for later use.
• Layering Spaghetti and Sauce:
• Turn off the sauté function and pour half of the water into the Instant Pot.
• Break the spaghetti noodles in half and layer them in an “x” pattern at the bottom of the pot.
• Cover the spaghetti noodles completely with the pasta sauce, diced tomatoes, and the remaining water, ensuring the noodles are submerged.
• Pressure Cooking:
• Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to sealing.
• Cook on manual high pressure for 5 minutes.
• Allow a natural release for 5 minutes before carefully releasing the remaining pressure by turning the valve to the venting position.

Serving and Enjoying:

Once the pressure has been released, open the lid and return the meat mixture to the Instant Pot. Stir everything together to combine well before serving.

Tips for Success:

• For a richer flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
• If you prefer softer noodles, add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Health Benefits of Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs:

Homemade spaghetti and meatballs offer several health benefits compared to store-bought alternatives. By using fresh ingredients and controlling the seasoning, you can reduce sodium and preservatives in your meal.

Variations and Substitutions:

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your preferences. You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. Additionally, you can incorporate your favorite vegetables into the sauce for added nutrition.

Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs is a convenient and delicious meal option for busy weeknights. By following this simple recipe, you can enjoy a homemade Italian classic in no time. Gather your ingredients, fire up your Instant Pot, and get ready to indulge in a satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.

FAQs:

1. Can I use frozen meatballs for this recipe?
2. How long does it take for the Instant Pot to come to pressure?
3. Can I double the recipe?
4. What should I do if the sauce is too thick after cooking?
5. Can I use whole wheat spaghetti noodles instead of regular spaghetti?