Instant Pot Spaghetti And Meatballs

Spaghetti and meatballs is a classic dish that is loved by people of all ages. It is a hearty and comforting meal that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. However, traditional spaghetti and meatballs can be time-consuming to make. That’s where the Instant Pot comes in! This recipe for Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs makes it easy to enjoy this delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

In this recipe, we use the Instant Pot to cook the meatballs and sauce simultaneously. This saves us time and energy, and it also results in a flavorful and tender meatball. The sauce is made with simple ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. It is simmered in the Instant Pot until it is rich and flavorful.

This recipe is easy to follow and it yields a delicious and satisfying meal. It is perfect for busy weeknights or when you are looking for a comforting and hearty dish.

Instant Pot Spaghetti And Meatballs

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 pound spaghetti noodles
  • grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  2. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
  3. Heat the olive oil in the Instant Pot on the Sauté setting. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides.
  4. Remove the meatballs from the Instant Pot and set aside.
  5. Add the onion and garlic to the Instant Pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  6. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes to the Instant Pot. Stir to combine.
  7. Place the meatballs back in the Instant Pot.
  8. Close the lid and seal the vent.
  9. Cook on High Pressure for 5 minutes.
  10. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
  11. Serve the spaghetti noodles with the sauce and meatballs. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Tips:

  • For a more flavorful sauce, brown the meatballs in a skillet before adding them to the Instant Pot.
  • If you don’t have a jar of spaghetti sauce, you can make your own by combining 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes, 1/2 cup tomato paste, 1/4 cup chopped onion, 1/4 cup chopped garlic, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until thickened.
  • You can also use frozen meatballs in this recipe. Just thaw them before adding them to the Instant Pot.
  • If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can cook this recipe in a traditional pressure cooker or on the stovetop. Just follow the same instructions, but cook the spaghetti and meatballs for 10 minutes on high pressure in a pressure cooker or 15 minutes in a covered saucepan over medium heat.

What Are Some Common Mistakes To Avoid When Making Instant Pot Spaghetti And Meatballs?

  • Don’t overcook the meatballs. They should be cooked through, but not dry.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta. It should be cooked al dente, or slightly firm to the bite.
  • Don’t add too much sauce to the Instant Pot. The meatballs should be able to float freely in the sauce.

Nutritional Facts

Here are the nutritional facts for a serving of Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs:

  • Calories: 403
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg
  • Sodium: 920mg
  • Carbohydrates: 51g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Protein: 24g

This recipe is a good source of protein and carbohydrates, but it is also high in sodium and saturated fat. If you are looking for a healthier version of this dish, you can try using lean ground beef, low-sodium marinara sauce, and whole-wheat spaghetti. You can also reduce the amount of cheese and oil used in the recipe.

Cooking Time

The cooking time for Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs is 8-10 minutes for fully cooked meatballs or 6-8 minutes for partially cooked meatballs on manual or pressure cook mode.

Why Is Spaghetti And Meatballs Good?

Spaghetti and meatballs is a classic comfort food that is loved by people of all ages. It is a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cold winter night. The meatballs are made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and other flavorful ingredients. They are then cooked in a delicious tomato sauce. The spaghetti is cooked al dente and then tossed with the sauce and meatballs. The dish is typically garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.

There are many reasons spaghetti and meatballs is such a popular dish. First, it is very easy to make. The meatballs can be made ahead of time and frozen, and the sauce can be made in a slow cooker or on the stovetop. This makes it a great option for busy families or for those who are short on time.

Second, spaghetti and meatballs is a very versatile dish. It can be served as a main course or as an appetizer. It can also be made ahead of time and reheated later. This makes it a great option for potlucks, parties, or family gatherings.

Third, spaghetti and meatballs is a very affordable dish. The ingredients are relatively inexpensive, and the dish can be made in large batches. This makes it a great option for budget-minded families.

Finally, spaghetti and meatballs is simply delicious. The combination of the savory meatballs, the flavorful sauce, and the al dente pasta is simply irresistible. It is a dish that is sure to please everyone at the table.

Here are some additional reasons why spaghetti and meatballs is a good dish:

  • It is a good source of protein and carbohydrates.
  • It is a comfort food that can bring people together.
  • It is a versatile dish that can be served in many different ways.
  • It is a relatively easy dish to make.
  • It is a relatively affordable dish.
  • It is a delicious dish that is sure to please everyone at the table.

Is Instant Pot Spaghetti And Meatballs Healthy?

nstant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs can be a healthy meal if you make it with healthy ingredients and cook it in a healthy way. Here are some tips for making a healthier version of this dish:

  • Use lean ground beef or turkey.
  • Use low-sodium marinara sauce.
  • Choose whole-wheat spaghetti.
  • Reduce the amount of cheese and oil used in the recipe.
  • Add vegetables to the sauce, such as chopped tomatoes, onions, or peppers.
  • Serve with a side salad or fruit.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a delicious and healthy version of Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs.

Health Benefits Of Instant Pot Spaghetti And Meatballs

  1. High in Protein: Meatballs are a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. Protein also helps to keep you feeling full for longer, which can help with weight management.
  2. Rich in Fiber: Spaghetti is made from whole grain flour, which is a great source of fiber. Fiber helps to keep your digestive system healthy and can also lower your risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
  3. Low in Fat: By using lean ground beef or turkey, you can reduce the fat content in your meatballs. This can help to lower your cholesterol levels and reduce your risk of heart disease.
  4. Packed with Nutrients: Instant Pot spaghetti and meatballs can be made with a variety of vegetables such as onions, garlic, carrots, and tomatoes. These vegetables provide important vitamins and minerals that your body needs to function properly.
  5. Easy to Make: Instant Pot spaghetti and meatballs is a simple and convenient meal that can be prepared quickly, making it a great option for busy weeknights. It can also be a good meal prep option for those who want to plan their meals in advance.

Conclusion

Instant Pot spaghetti and meatballs is a delicious and easy meal that can be made in no time at all. This recipe is perfect for busy families or anyone who wants a quick and easy weeknight meal. The meatballs are made with lean ground beef and breadcrumbs, and the sauce is made with simple ingredients like tomatoes, onions, and garlic. The whole dish is cooked in the Instant Pot, which makes it even easier.

This recipe is also a great way to get your kids involved in the kitchen. They can help you roll the meatballs and stir the sauce. This is a great way to teach them about cooking and food preparation.

So next time you’re looking for a quick and easy meal, give Instant Pot spaghetti and meatballs a try. Your family will love it.

FAQS

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

It takes about 8-10 minutes to cook spaghetti and meatballs in the Instant Pot, plus additional time for the pot to come to pressure and release pressure.

Can I use frozen meatballs in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen meatballs in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as they will take longer to cook than fresh meatballs. You may also want to thaw them slightly before cooking to ensure that they cook evenly.

Do I need to brown the meatballs before cooking them in the Instant Pot?

It’s not necessary to brown the meatballs before cooking them in the Instant Pot, but you can if you prefer. Browning the meatballs can add extra flavor and texture to the dish.

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of spaghetti?

Yes, you can use a different type of pasta in this recipe. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the type of pasta you use.

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