The aroma of simmering tomatoes, garlic, and herbs wafts through your kitchen, teasing your taste buds with promises of an unforgettable meal. Instant Pot spaghetti isn’t just a dish; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl that delivers all the joy of homemade pasta without the fuss. For more inspiration, check out this lunch ideas recipe.
Picture this: you’re back from a long day at work, the kids are bouncing off the walls, and dinner seems like an Everest-sized task. Enter Instant Pot spaghetti, your culinary superhero ready to swoop in and save the day with minimal effort and maximum flavor. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Instant Pot spaghetti recipe is quick and requires minimal cleanup
- The rich flavors will make your taste buds dance with joy
- Its vibrant colors appeal to the eyes while being versatile for any occasion
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy family gatherings
I remember the first time I served this dish to my family; they devoured it in minutes and declared me a culinary genius. Who knew I could impress them so easily?
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Spaghetti: Use traditional or whole wheat spaghetti; both cook beautifully in the Instant Pot.
Olive Oil: A splash of good quality olive oil enhances the flavor and prevents sticking.
Minced Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a delightful aroma and depth of flavor you won’t want to skip.
Canned Diced Tomatoes: Choose fire-roasted for an added smokiness; they bring vibrancy and richness to your sauce.
Vegetable or Chicken Broth: The broth adds essential moisture and flavor; low-sodium options are perfect for controlling saltiness.
Dried Italian Herbs: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme gives you that authentic Italian taste without needing a passport.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is like fairy dust sprinkled on top—totally transforms your dish!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Instant Pot Spaghetti
Prep Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients on your countertop. Having everything ready makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable without last-minute scrambling.
Sauté the Aromatics: Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant—this should take just about 30 seconds.
Add the Spaghetti: Break the spaghetti in half if needed, layering it evenly over the garlic. Pour canned diced tomatoes and broth over everything, ensuring pasta is submerged.
Season It Up: Sprinkle dried Italian herbs over the top along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently with a wooden spoon—it’s okay if some spaghetti sticks out!
Pressure Cook: Close the lid, set to high pressure for 8 minutes, then let it naturally release for another 5 minutes before carefully releasing any remaining pressure manually.
Toss with Cheese: Open the lid carefully as steam escapes. Stir well; add grated Parmesan cheese at this point for an extra creamy texture that brings it all together.
And voilà! You’ve made Instant Pot spaghetti that rivals any restaurant dish—all without breaking a sweat or burning your dinner!
Now that you have mastered this easy recipe, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad or crusty bread for an even more satisfying meal complete with cheesy goodness! Enjoy creating memories around your dining table as everyone digs into this delicious feast—let those forks twirl away!
You Must Know
- Instant Pot Spaghetti is a game-changer for busy nights
- This one-pot wonder saves time and cleanup while delivering rich flavors
- Aromas of garlic and herbs fill your kitchen, making it feel like a cozy Italian trattoria
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing garlic in olive oil, then add your spaghetti and sauce directly into the pot for maximum flavor absorption.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out traditional marinara for pesto or add veggies like spinach and bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality pasta for better texture and flavor
- Avoid overcooking by following the package instructions closely
- Don’t forget to stir well to prevent sticking during cooking
Sometimes I think my Instant Pot deserves its own thank-you card after friends rave about my spaghetti!
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat pasta for Instant Pot Spaghetti?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta will work well; just adjust the cooking time slightly.
What type of sauce is best for Instant Pot Spaghetti?
Marinara sauce is classic, but feel free to experiment with Alfredo or homemade sauces!
How long does it take to cook spaghetti in an Instant Pot?
It typically takes about 8-10 minutes under pressure, depending on the pasta type used.
Instant Pot Spaghetti
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Instant Pot spaghetti is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution, combining the rich flavors of garlic, tomatoes, and herbs into a comforting bowl of pasta. This quick and easy recipe lets you prepare a delicious meal in just one pot, perfect for busy families or anyone craving a satisfying dish without the hassle. With minimal cleanup required, you’ll be free to enjoy your time with loved ones while savoring every bite of this delightful homemade spaghetti.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (fire-roasted recommended)
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth (low-sodium)
- 2 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme mix)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients: Gather all items on your countertop for an efficient cooking experience.
- Sauté garlic: Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode, add olive oil and minced garlic, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add spaghetti: Break spaghetti in half if necessary and layer it over the garlic. Pour diced tomatoes and broth on top, ensuring the pasta is submerged.
- Season: Sprinkle Italian herbs, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir gently to combine.
- Pressure cook: Close the lid, set to high pressure for 8 minutes, then allow a natural release for 5 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
- Toss with cheese: Carefully open the lid, stir well, and mix in grated Parmesan cheese until creamy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
