There’s something incredibly comforting about a big bowl of spaghetti. It’s a meal that evokes memories of family dinners and cozy nights in. But when you add the Instant Pot into the mix, you elevate this classic dish to a whole new level of convenience and flavor. Imagine al dente spaghetti smothered in a rich, savory sauce, all cooked in a fraction of the time it takes to prepare traditionally. This recipe for The Best Instant Pot Spaghetti is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor, making it a weeknight go-to for families and busy individuals alike.

Why Cooks Rave About It

One of the reasons cooks can’t stop raving about The Best Instant Pot Spaghetti is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and a one-pot cooking method, it saves time and minimizes cleanup. The Instant Pot locks in flavors, resulting in a rich, hearty sauce that perfectly coats the pasta. Plus, the ability to cook everything together means the spaghetti absorbs all those delicious flavors, creating a meal that’s bursting with taste. It’s easy to see why this recipe has become a favorite in many households!

What You’ll Gather

1 tablespoon olive oil
3 garlic cloves, chopped finely
1 teaspoon onion powder
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 lb ground beef (lean preferred)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
12 oz spaghetti noodles
3 cups water
15 oz can diced tomatoes
24 oz crushed tomatoes or pasta sauce

Equipment at a Glance

Instant Pot – the star of the show, perfect for quick cooking.
Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons – accuracy is key in cooking.
Cutting board and knife – for prepping your garlic.

Cook The Best Instant Pot Spaghetti Like This

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the olive oil and let it heat up. Once hot, toss in the finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be cautious not to burn it!

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with your wooden spoon. Sprinkle in the onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the beef is browned all over, stirring occasionally, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Pasta and Liquid

Layer the uncooked spaghetti noodles on top of the browned beef. Do not stir! This is key to prevent the noodles from sticking together. Pour the 3 cups of water over the spaghetti, followed by the diced tomatoes and crushed tomatoes or pasta sauce, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Cook Under Pressure

Close the lid of your Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to sealing. Select the manual or pressure cook setting and set the timer for 8 minutes. The Instant Pot will take some time to come to pressure before it starts cooking.

Step 5: Quick Release and Serve

Once the cooking time is up, carefully do a quick release by turning the valve to venting. Once the steam has fully released, open the lid. Stir the spaghetti to combine everything well. Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious, homemade spaghetti!

Flavor-Forward Alternatives

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Add a splash of red wine to the sauce for a deeper flavor.
Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.
Top your spaghetti with fresh basil or parsley for a fresh finish.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

Ensure you don’t stir the spaghetti with the meat before adding the liquid. This helps prevent the noodles from clumping together.
Always check the sealing ring in your Instant Pot to ensure it’s properly placed before cooking.
Let the pressure release naturally for a few minutes if you have time; it can help enhance the flavor.
Remember to adjust seasoning after cooking, as flavors can intensify or mellow out during the pressure cooking process.

Storage Pro Tips

The Best Instant Pot Spaghetti stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water and microwave or heat on the stovetop. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and you’ll have a quick meal ready to go!

Questions People Ask

Can I use whole wheat spaghetti instead of regular spaghetti?

Absolutely! Whole wheat spaghetti works wonderfully in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may require a minute less than regular spaghetti.

What if I don’t have diced tomatoes?

No problem! You can substitute with more crushed tomatoes or any other canned tomato product you have on hand, such as tomato sauce or even fresh tomatoes if you prefer.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with lentils or your favorite meat substitute, and you can enhance the flavor with additional vegetables and spices.

Is it safe to use frozen ground beef in this recipe?

While it’s generally best to use thawed ground beef for even cooking, you can use frozen ground beef. Just increase the cooking time by about 2-3 minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked through.

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Ready to Cook?

The Best Instant Pot Spaghetti is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings joy to the table. With its rich flavors and the convenience of the Instant Pot, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try this sooner. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delicious bowl of spaghetti that’s sure to impress your family and friends. It’s time to dig in!