Instant Pot Spaghetti & Meat Sauce

$- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option) - 1 small onion, diced - 2 garlic cloves, minced - 1 bell pepper, diced (any color) - 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes - 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce - 8 ounces spaghetti (uncooked) The main ingredients form the base of our dish. Ground beef or turkey gives it a hearty flavor. The diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper add freshness and depth. Crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce create a rich, thick sauce that clings to the spaghetti. - 2 cups beef broth - 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Salt and pepper to taste Seasoning is key to making your sauce pop. The beef broth adds moisture and flavor. Italian seasoning and dried basil bring in the classic Italian taste. Don't forget to add salt and pepper to balance everything out. - Grated Parmesan cheese - Fresh basil leaves Toppings elevate your meal. Grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, creamy layer. Fresh basil leaves bring a burst of color and fresh flavor. You can add as much or as little as you like. {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Once it is hot, add 1 pound of ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until it turns brown, about 5-7 minutes. If you see excess fat, drain it off carefully. Next, add your chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the pot. Sauté these for 2-3 minutes. You want the onions to become soft and translucent. This step builds a rich flavor base for your sauce. Now it’s time to pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Add 2 cups of beef broth, 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well. This combination creates a delicious sauce that coats the spaghetti perfectly. Take 8 ounces of uncooked spaghetti and break it in half. Gently push the pieces into the sauce mixture. Make sure the pasta is mostly covered by the sauce, but avoid stirring. This helps the spaghetti cook evenly. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to manual high pressure. Set the timer for 8 minutes. Before you start, ensure the valve is set to sealing. This traps the steam inside, cooking the spaghetti perfectly. Once the cooking time is done, carefully do a quick release of pressure. Turn the valve to venting, being cautious of hot steam. When it is safe, open the lid and stir the spaghetti and sauce together. If the dish looks too thick, add a splash of beef broth and stir again. Your meal is now ready to serve! - How to prevent pasta from sticking To stop pasta from sticking, break the spaghetti in half. This helps it fit better in the pot. Place the pasta gently in the sauce mix without stirring. The sauce will keep it moist and help it cook evenly. - Tips on browning meat Start by heating your Instant Pot on sauté mode. Once hot, add the ground beef or turkey. Let it cook without moving it for a few minutes. This helps to brown the meat. Stir it only after a good crust forms. - Suggestions for additional spices You can boost the flavor by adding red pepper flakes for heat. A pinch of smoked paprika adds depth. For a sweeter touch, try a dash of sugar. These spices make your dish even more exciting. - Benefits of using fresh herbs Fresh basil is a game changer. It adds a bright flavor that dried herbs can't match. Use it as a garnish right before serving. You can also mix it in for a fresh taste throughout the dish. - Overcooking the pasta It's easy to overcook pasta in the Instant Pot. Stick to the 8-minute cooking time. If you cook it longer, it may turn mushy. Remember, the pasta continues to cook even after you release the pressure. - Incorrect pressure release Always do a quick release carefully. Turn the valve to venting, but keep your face away from the steam. If you don’t release the pressure correctly, it can lead to uneven cooking. Safety first! Pro Tips Use Lean Meat: Opt for lean ground beef or turkey to reduce fat content and make the dish lighter without sacrificing flavor. Don’t Stir the Spaghetti: When adding the spaghetti to the sauce, do not stir. This prevents it from clumping together and ensures even cooking. Adjust Thickness: If the sauce is too thick after cooking, add a splash of beef broth or water and stir to reach your desired consistency. Garnish for Flavor: Fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese not only enhance the presentation but also add fresh flavor to the dish. {{image_2}} You can make this dish lighter with a few simple swaps. - Use zucchini noodles instead of regular spaghetti. This adds veggies and cuts carbs. - Choose leaner meats like turkey or chicken. They have less fat and still taste great. These changes keep the dish tasty while making it healthier. You get the same comfort without the guilt. Want a meat-free meal? You have great choices! - Try plant-based meat instead of ground beef. Many brands taste just like real meat. - Add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or carrots. This makes it colorful and full of nutrients. These options are perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy spaghetti and meat sauce without meat. Spice up your dish with these fun ideas! - Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. It brings heat and flavor to your sauce. - Swap ground beef for Italian sausage. This gives a rich, savory taste that makes the sauce special. These flavor variations will keep your meal exciting and delicious every time you make it. To keep your spaghetti and meat sauce fresh, place it in a sealed container. This way, it prevents spills and keeps flavors locked in. Store it in the fridge. It will stay good for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is a great option. To freeze the dish, let it cool to room temperature first. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space at the top. The sauce can expand while freezing. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. For the microwave, place it in a bowl and cover it. Heat in 1-minute intervals. Stir it in between to heat evenly. For the stovetop, warm it on low heat. Stir often to prevent sticking. Always ensure it's heated to at least 165°F for safety. This keeps the meal tasty and safe to eat. Cook spaghetti in the Instant Pot for 8 minutes at high pressure. This time works best for al dente pasta. The pressure builds quickly, so the cooking process is fast. After the timer goes off, perform a quick release. This helps to keep the pasta from getting mushy. Yes, you can use ground chicken, turkey, or sausage. Each option adds a unique flavor. Ground turkey is a leaner choice, while sausage gives a spicy kick. Feel free to mix meats for a blend of tastes. Just ensure they are cooked through. Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch and store portions in containers. You can refrigerate the dish for up to four days. It also freezes well for longer storage. Just reheat before serving. Pair your spaghetti with a fresh side salad or garlic bread. A simple green salad brightens the meal. Garlic bread adds a lovely crunch. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables for more nutrition. These sides enhance the overall dining experience. This post covers all you need for Instant Pot spaghetti. From key ingredients to easy steps, you can make a tasty meal. Remember to choose your meat wisely and add spices for more flavor. Don’t overlook the tips on preventing pasta from sticking or common mistakes to avoid. You can even explore variations like zucchini noodles or plant-based meat. With the right storage, enjoy leftovers for days. Now you have the tools to create a delicious dish that satisfies. Happy cooking!$

Instant Pot Spaghetti & Meat Sauce

Discover the ultimate Instant Pot spaghetti and meat sauce recipe for a deliciously quick dinner! This easy spaghetti recipe combines ground beef, vibrant veggies, and a rich tomato sauce, all cooked perfectly in your pressure cooker. Ideal for busy weeknights, this Instant Pot spaghetti takes just 30 minutes to prepare. Ready to impress your family? Save this quick dinner recipe for your next meal! #InstantPotSpaghetti #QuickDinnerRecipes #SpaghettiAndMeatSauce #EasySpaghettiRecipe

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Ingredients

1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)

1 small onion, diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 bell pepper, diced (any color)

1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes

1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

2 cups beef broth

2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

8 ounces spaghetti (uncooked)

Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics: Set your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Vegetables: Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the onions are translucent.

Add Sauces and Seasoning: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Add Spaghetti: Break the spaghetti in half and gently submerge it into the sauce mixture without stirring. Ensure it is mostly covered by the sauce.

Pressure Cook: Close the lid of the Instant Pot. Set it to manual high pressure for 8 minutes. Ensure the valve is set to sealing.

Release Pressure: After the cooking time is complete, carefully do a quick release of steam by turning the valve to venting. (Be cautious of the hot steam.)

Final Mixing: Open the lid and stir the spaghetti and sauce together until well combined. If it looks too thick, add a splash more beef broth and stir.

Serve: Ladle the spaghetti & meat sauce into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4