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Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs

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Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs is a quick, flavorful, and hassle-free take on a classic Italian comfort food. The Instant Pot cooks the meatballs, spaghetti, and sauce all in one pot, providing a hearty, satisfying meal in under an hour. Perfect for a busy weeknight or casual dinner party.

Ingredients

  1. 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
    1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian)
    1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    1 large egg
    2 garlic cloves, minced
    1 tsp dried oregano
    1/2 tsp salt
    1/2 tsp black pepper
    1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
    1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or homemade)
    1 cup water or beef broth
    1/2 tsp dried basil
    1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
    1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
    12 oz spaghetti (uncooked)

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overwork the meat. Roll the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter (16-18 meatballs).

  1. Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Once hot, add 1 tbsp of olive oil. Brown the meatballs in batches for 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside. (Optional but adds flavor.)
  2. For the sauce, add marinara sauce and water (or beef broth) to the Instant Pot. Stir in basil and red pepper flakes (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
  3. Break the uncooked spaghetti in half and place on top of the sauce. Do not stir. Arrange meatballs on top of the pasta.
  4. Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to ‘Sealing’. Set to ‘Pressure Cook’ on high for 8 minutes (9 minutes for softer pasta). Release pressure quickly by turning the valve to ‘Venting’.
  5. Open the lid, stir pasta and sauce, ensuring it’s well-coated. Serve with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

Notes

  1. Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat like lentils or vegetarian meatballs.
  2. Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs: Add mozzarella cubes in the center of each meatball for a cheesy surprise.
  3. Spicy Meatballs: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the meatball mixture for extra heat.
  4. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta for a gluten-free version.
  5. Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave with extra sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/instant-pot-spaghetti-and-meatballs-2/