Spaghetti and Meatballs Instant Pot Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of meatballs (can be raw, frozen, or pre-cooked)
- 12 ounces of spaghetti noodles, cut in half for better fit
- Optional: 1 (14 oz) can of diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 (24 oz) jar of spaghetti sauce
- 3 cups of water (use the empty spaghetti sauce jar to measure)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
- Shredded Mozzarella cheese, for garnish
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pot:
- Place the meatballs in the bottom of the inner pot of the Instant Pot. If using raw meatballs, ensure they are thawed for even cooking.
- Add Spaghetti:
- Scatter the halved spaghetti noodles evenly over the meatballs to prevent clumping.
- Add Liquids:
- Carefully pour the water over the spaghetti. If using diced tomatoes, add them now, spreading them evenly.
- Add Sauce:
- Pour the spaghetti sauce over the contents, making sure all the noodles are covered. This helps in cooking the spaghetti evenly and prevents sticking.
- Sealing and Cooking:
- Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and set the steam release knob to the sealing position.
- Select the ‘Pressure Cook’ or ‘Manual’ setting and set the time to 9 minutes for fully cooked noodles, or 7 minutes if you prefer them al dente.
- Post-Cooking:
- Once the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release the steam for about 5 minutes, then carefully turn the steam release knob to the venting position to release any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid once the pin drops, indicating that all pressure has been released.
- Finishing Touches:
- Stir the spaghetti and meatballs gently with a fork to separate any noodles that might have stuck together.
- If the sauce appears too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding a little hot water and stirring well.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella, and chopped parsley over the hot spaghetti and meatballs.
- Serve immediately while warm, pairing with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tips:
- If using frozen meatballs, there’s no need to thaw them first; just ensure to separate them before adding to the pot.
- For a spicier twist, consider adding a teaspoon of red pepper flakes into the sauce.
- Regular stirring during the serving process helps distribute the cheese and garnishes evenly.
This recipe makes it simple and quick to prepare a comforting meal, perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a hearty dish without much fuss. Enjoy your cooking!
