Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs
Ingredients
1 tbsp Olive Oil
1 pound ground beef, lean
½ yellow onion
1 tbsp Italian Seasoning
2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
½ tsp pepper
1 tbsp garlic, freshly minced
3 cups water
1 jar Spaghetti Sauce
1 can tomatoes, diced, (optional)
16 ounces spaghetti noodles
Instructions
Step 1:
Turn Air Pot to Saute
When it is ready, add the onion and olive oil
Step 2:
When the onions are softened slightly, add the meat and the seasonings, cook until meat is done
Hit CANCEL
Step 3:
Add water after removing the meat, scrape the bottom very well to avoid Burn warning from Air Pot
Break the spaghetti in half and place in the Air Pot in a criss cross pattern
Step 4:
Pour Spaghetti Sauce over the noodles
Add the can of diced tomatoes on top of spaghetti sauce
Add the water by pouring on the sides and the top of the tomatoes
Step 5:
Push down slightly to ensure spaghetti is covered in the water
Place the lid on
Turn valve to sealing, press PRESSURE COOK
Step 6:
Set the time for 5 minutes
When the time is done, let pressure do a natural release for 5 minutes
Hit CANCEL
Step 7:
Do a quick release until the pin drops
Open the lid and finally stir the spaghetti, sauce and tomatoes with meat all together
Serve with a dinner salad and garlic cheese toast if desired
Enjoy!
Nutrition Information:
Amount Per Serving:
CALORIES: 387 | TOTAL FAT: 19g | CHOLESTEROL: 54mg | SODIUM: 645mg | SUGAR: 6g | PROTEIN: 19g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer.
Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be a healthier choice for some individuals.
Do I have to break the spaghetti noodles in half?
Breaking the spaghetti noodles in half allows them to fit better in the Instant Pot and ensures they cook evenly.
However, if you prefer longer noodles, you can leave them whole, but be sure to arrange them in the pot to avoid clumping.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes if you prefer.
Simply dice fresh tomatoes and use them in place of the canned tomatoes.
Adjust the quantity based on personal preference.
How do I prevent the spaghetti from sticking together during cooking?
To prevent the spaghetti from sticking together, ensure that the noodles are arranged in a criss-cross pattern in the Instant Pot.
This helps to separate the noodles and ensures they cook evenly.
Additionally, stirring the spaghetti well after cooking will help to distribute the sauce and prevent clumping.
Can I customize the seasoning in the meatballs?
Yes, you can customize the seasoning in the meatballs according to your taste preferences.
You can add additional herbs and spices such as parsley, basil, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef for the meatballs?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe.
Adjust cooking times as necessary, as ground turkey may cook faster than ground beef.
What can I substitute for olive oil if I don’t have any?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can use other cooking oils such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or grapeseed oil as alternatives.
Do I need to precook the spaghetti noodles before adding them to the Instant Pot?
No, the spaghetti noodles can be added to the Instant Pot uncooked.
They will cook along with the other ingredients during the pressure cooking process.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Yes, fresh minced garlic can be used instead of garlic powder for a fresher flavor.
Use approximately 3 cloves of minced garlic in place of 2 teaspoons of garlic powder.
Is it necessary to use diced tomatoes in this recipe?
No, diced tomatoes are optional.
They can add extra texture and flavor to the dish, but if you prefer a smoother sauce, you can omit them.
How can I prevent the spaghetti noodles from sticking together in the Instant Pot?
To prevent spaghetti noodles from sticking together, be sure to arrange them in a criss-cross pattern in the Instant Pot.
This helps to separate the noodles during cooking.
Can I use homemade spaghetti sauce instead of jarred sauce?
Yes, homemade spaghetti sauce can be used in place of jarred sauce.
Adjust the quantity based on personal preference and taste.
What size Instant Pot should I use for this recipe?
A 6-quart Instant Pot is recommended for this recipe, as it can comfortably accommodate the ingredients and allow for proper pressure cooking.
Can I freeze leftovers of Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs?
Yes, leftovers can be frozen for future meals.
Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How long will leftovers of Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs keep in the refrigerator?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheat them in the microwave or on the stove until heated through before serving.