There’s just something so comforting about a big bowl of spaghetti—it feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day. This Instant Pot Spaghetti brings all the cozy, home-cooked goodness of a classic Italian dinner, but with the convenience of one pot and minimal cleanup.
Rich meat sauce, perfectly tender pasta, and a sprinkle of parmesan—it’s a family favorite that comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for busy weeknights or a simple Sunday dinner, this recipe is as easy as it is delicious.
Recipe Info
| Field | Info |
|---|---|
| Category | Dinner / Pasta |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Servings | 6 servings |
| Calories | ~420 kcal per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
- 3 cups beef or chicken broth
- 12 oz spaghetti (uncooked, broken in half)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated parmesan cheese, for serving
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Brown the meat
Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Heat olive oil, then add ground beef and onion. Cook until the beef is browned and onions are softened, about 5–6 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook 1 more minute. - Deglaze the pot
Add a splash of broth and scrape the bottom with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits. This helps prevent the “burn” warning. - Layer the pasta
Break spaghetti noodles in half and layer them crisscrossed over the meat. Don’t stir—this prevents clumping. - Add liquids & sauce
Pour broth evenly over the noodles. Then pour marinara sauce on top, gently pressing it down with a spoon. (Do not stir.) - Pressure cook
Seal the lid and set to Manual / High Pressure for 8 minutes. Once done, quick release the steam carefully. - Stir & serve
Open the lid and stir everything together until pasta is coated in sauce. Let it rest for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly. Garnish with parsley and parmesan, then serve warm.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Prevent sticking: Layer noodles crisscross and don’t stir before cooking.
- Thicker sauce: Let the pasta rest uncovered for a few minutes after stirring to absorb extra liquid.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days. Add a splash of broth when reheating to loosen the sauce.
- Spice control: Adjust red pepper flakes to taste or leave them out for a kid-friendly version.
Recipe Variations
- Protein swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles instead of beef.
- Veggie boost: Stir in chopped spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms at the end for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Creamier sauce: Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with garlic bread or warm dinner rolls.
- Serve alongside a crisp Caesar salad for balance.
- Top with fresh basil and extra parmesan for that restaurant-style finish.
Conclusion
This Instant Pot Spaghetti is everything you want in a cozy family dinner—easy, flavorful, and made in one pot for quick cleanup. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend, this recipe will bring everyone to the table with smiles. So grab your forks, twirl up some noodles, and enjoy a bowl of comfort with those you love most.