Name: Instant Pot Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound 93% ground turkey or lean ground beef; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 cup diced onion; 1 clove minced garlic; 2 cups water; 1 24 oz jar marinara sauce (your favorite or homemade); 10 ounces spaghetti (wheat or gluten-free, or bucatini, linguini); Grated parmesan cheese (optional for serving)

If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting meal that comes together in a flash, then look no further than this Instant Pot Spaghetti with Meat Sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, and the best part? It’s a one-pot wonder! With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re using lean ground turkey or ground beef, the rich marinara sauce melds beautifully with the pasta, making each bite a delight. Let’s dive into the particulars of creating this hearty meal.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Instant Pot Spaghetti with Meat Sauce is not only quick to prepare, but it also offers a comforting taste of home. Here’s what makes this recipe stand out:

Quick Cooking Time: The Instant Pot drastically reduces cooking time, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes.
One-Pot Meal: Say goodbye to multiple pots and pans! Everything cooks together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs, whether you prefer turkey or beef, or even gluten-free pasta.
Hearty and Flavorful: The combination of savory meat, aromatic garlic, and rich marinara creates an irresistible sauce that pairs perfectly with the pasta.

The Essentials

Before you get cooking, gather these essential ingredients:

1 pound 93% ground turkey or lean ground beef
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 cup diced onion
1 clove minced garlic
2 cups water
1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (your favorite or homemade)
10 ounces spaghetti (wheat or gluten-free, or bucatini, linguini)
Grated parmesan cheese (optional for serving)

Hardware & Gadgets

Make sure you have the right tools on hand to make this recipe a success:

Instant Pot: This electric pressure cooker is the star of the show, ensuring your pasta is cooked perfectly every time.
Wooden Spoon: Great for sautéing and mixing ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure your sauce is just right.
Cutting Board and Knife: Essential for prepping your onion and garlic.

How to Prepare Instant Pot Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

Follow these simple steps to whip up your Instant Pot Spaghetti with Meat Sauce:

Step 1: Sauté the Meat

Start by pressing the “Sauté” button on your Instant Pot. Once hot, add the ground turkey or beef along with the kosher salt. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with your wooden spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the 2 cups of water and the marinara sauce. Stir everything together, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any bits stuck on.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

Now, add the spaghetti. Make sure to submerge the pasta in the sauce, but do not stir. This will help prevent the pasta from sticking together.

Step 5: Cook Under Pressure

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set the valve to sealing. Select “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” and set the timer for 8 minutes.

Step 6: Quick Release

Once the cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release by turning the valve to venting. Allow the steam to escape before opening the lid.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Gently stir the spaghetti and sauce together. Serve hot with a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese on top, if desired. Enjoy your homemade Instant Pot Spaghetti with Meat Sauce!

Substitutions by Diet

This recipe is versatile, accommodating various dietary preferences:

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spaghetti or another pasta alternative like zucchini noodles.
Vegan: Substitute ground turkey or beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative and use a vegan marinara sauce.
Pasta Type: Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli, for a fun twist.
Low-Carb: Replace spaghetti with spiralized vegetables like zucchini or spaghetti squash.

Avoid These Traps

To ensure your Instant Pot Spaghetti with Meat Sauce turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

Don’t stir the pasta after adding it to the sauce; this helps prevent it from clumping together.
Be cautious when performing the quick release to avoid hot steam burns.
Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pot well before sealing to prevent the burn notice from the Instant Pot.
Keep an eye on the cooking time; overcooked pasta can become mushy.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, here are some tips for freezing:

The spaghetti and meat sauce freeze well together. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Label the container with the date and contents, and use within 3 months for best quality.
To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Your Top Questions

Can I use another type of meat for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use ground chicken, pork, or even a meat substitute like lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative for a different flavor profile.

How long does it take to cook spaghetti in the Instant Pot?

In this recipe, spaghetti cooks in just 8 minutes under pressure. The entire process, including sautéing and releasing pressure, takes about 30 minutes.

Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?

Yes! You can make it on the stovetop. Brown the meat and sauté the onions and garlic in a large pot, then add water and sauce. Bring to a boil, add the pasta, and cook according to package instructions.

What can I serve with Instant Pot Spaghetti with Meat Sauce?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Time to Try It

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and create your very own Instant Pot Spaghetti with Meat Sauce. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress. The rich flavors and ease of preparation make it a standout recipe for any occasion. So grab your Instant Pot and get cooking! You’ll be savoring every bite in no time.