Instant Pot Spaghetti

Nothing beats a comforting bowl of spaghetti! Imagine a dish that comes together in a fraction of the time, with rich flavors and a perfect texture. That’s exactly what this Instant Pot Spaghetti delivers. With tender ground turkey, aromatic garlic, and a luscious marinara sauce, this meal is a weeknight savior. The best part? You can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes! Let’s dive into how to whip up this delicious dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Instant Pot Spaghetti is a game changer for busy weeknights. Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe:

– **Quick and Easy:** The pressure cooker significantly reduces cooking time, making this dish ideal for busy families.
– **One-Pot Wonder:** Say goodbye to multiple pans and pots! Everything cooks together in one pot for easy cleanup.
– **Flavorful and Satisfying:** The combination of ground turkey and marinara sauce packs a flavor punch, while the spaghetti absorbs all those delicious juices.
– **Customizable:** This recipe serves as a great base, allowing you to add your favorite veggies or spices.

Ingredient Breakdown

To make this delightful Instant Pot Spaghetti, gather the following ingredients:

• 3-4 garlic cloves, minced – For that aromatic kick.
• 1/2 onion, small diced – Adds sweetness and depth.
• 1 lb ground turkey – A lean protein option.
• 1 Tbsp olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables.
• 2 cups chicken broth – We recommend low sodium for better control over saltiness.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning – A perfect blend of herbs for flavor.
• 1/2 tsp each, salt and pepper – To enhance all the flavors.
• 24 oz marinara sauce – Use your favorite brand or homemade version.
• 8 oz thin spaghetti, broken in half – Cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully.
• 2 Tbsp salted butter, optional – For added richness and creaminess.

Toolbox for This Recipe

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools ready:

• Instant Pot – Your trusty pressure cooker.
• Wooden spoon – For stirring and sautéing.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To get the quantities just right.
• Cutting board and knife – For chopping veggies.

Step-by-Step: Instant Pot Spaghetti

Cooking Instant Pot Spaghetti is as simple as following these steps:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onion is translucent.

Step 2: Brown the Turkey

Add the 1 lb of ground turkey to the pot. Stir it occasionally to break it up, cooking until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and the Italian seasoning as it cooks.

Step 3: Add the Liquids

Pour in the 2 cups of chicken broth and the 24 oz of marinara sauce. Stir everything together, ensuring any browned bits from the bottom of the pot are scraped up.

Step 4: Add the Spaghetti

Break the 8 oz of thin spaghetti in half and gently nestle it into the sauce. It’s important not to stir at this point to prevent clumping.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to sealing. Pressure cook on high for 8 minutes. Once the time is up, perform a quick release of the pressure.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Open the lid carefully. Stir in the optional 2 tablespoons of salted butter for added richness. Give the spaghetti a good toss to coat it in the sauce. Serve hot and enjoy!

Adaptations for Special Diets

This Instant Pot Spaghetti can easily be adapted to fit various dietary preferences:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spaghetti or a pasta alternative like zucchini noodles.
• Vegetarian: Substitute ground turkey with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.
• Dairy-Free: Omit the butter or use a dairy-free alternative.
• Low-Carb: Swap spaghetti for spaghetti squash or shirataki noodles.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter any issues while making your Instant Pot Spaghetti, here are some helpful tips:

• Pasta is clumping: Ensure you are breaking the spaghetti in half and avoid stirring it before cooking.
• Too watery: If the sauce seems too thin after cooking, you can sauté it for a few minutes with the lid off to reduce it.
• Burn notice: Always deglaze the pot after sautéing to avoid burning. Scrape off any bits stuck to the bottom.
• Under-cooked pasta: If the pasta feels firm after cooking, you can pressure cook it for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Want to save some of your delicious Instant Pot Spaghetti for later? Here’s how:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. For longer storage, freeze the spaghetti in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Instant Pot Spaghetti Q&A

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground beef, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives work great in this recipe.

What if I don’t have chicken broth?

You can substitute it with vegetable broth or even water, but broth will add more flavor.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Feel free to toss in some bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach during the sauté step for added nutrition.

Is it necessary to break the spaghetti?

Breaking the spaghetti helps it fit better in the pot and ensures even cooking. You can leave it whole if you prefer, but it may take longer to cook.

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Hungry for More?

With its incredible flavors and quick cooking time, Instant Pot Spaghetti is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re feeding a family or just yourself, this dish offers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make it your own! Enjoy your culinary adventure, and happy cooking!