Contents
Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal, look no further than this Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe. This dish combines savory meatballs with perfectly cooked spaghetti, all infused with a rich tomato basil sauce. It’s a hearty meal that captures the essence of comforting Italian cuisine, and the Instant Pot makes it a breeze to prepare. Get ready to impress your family or guests with this delectable dish that’s ready in no time!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the meatballs:
– 1 pound lean ground beef
– ½ pound Italian sausage, casing removed
– ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 3 tablespoons whole milk
– 1 large egg, lightly beaten
– ¾ teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the dish:
– 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cups beef stock
– 12 ounces spaghetti, broken in half
– 1 (24-ounce) jar tomato basil pasta sauce
– ⅓ cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Enjoy making this heartfelt meal, and revel in the layers of flavor that come together effortlessly in your Instant Pot!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the meatballs
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian sausage, Panko breadcrumbs, whole milk, lightly beaten egg, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix all the ingredients until fully combined. Roll the mixture into 1 to 1½-inch meatballs, resulting in approximately 24 meatballs.
Sauté the meatballs
Set a 6-quart Instant Pot to the high sauté setting. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat. Add the meatballs in batches, cooking each batch until browned on all sides, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Once browned, return all the meatballs to the Instant Pot.
Add liquids and pasta
Pour the beef stock into the Instant Pot, scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the pot for added flavor. Lay the broken spaghetti over the meatballs, then pour the jarred tomato basil pasta sauce on top, ensuring the spaghetti is evenly coated with sauce.
Pressure cook
Select the manual setting on the Instant Pot, adjust the pressure to high, and set the cooking time for 8 minutes. After the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Finish and serve
Gently stir the mixture to separate the spaghetti for about 1 minute. Allow the dish to stand for 5 minutes to enable the sauce to thicken slightly. Serve immediately, and if desired, garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Meatball consistency
For optimal texture, ensure the meatball mixture is not overworked. Combine ingredients until just mixed.
Adjusting seasoning
Feel free to taste the raw meatball mix (without the egg) to adjust seasoning before forming the meatballs.
Serving suggestions
This dish pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Storing leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Cook techniques
Meatball Preparation
Combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, seasoning, and garlic in a bowl and mix until well incorporated. Shape into uniform meatballs for even cooking.
Sautéing
Use the high sauté setting on the Instant Pot to brown meatballs before pressure cooking. This enhances flavor through the Maillard reaction.
Layering Ingredients
Add liquid ingredients before pasta to ensure proper cooking. Place spaghetti on top of the meatballs and pour sauce over to evenly coat.
Pressure Cooking
Select high pressure for the appropriate time to ensure the pasta is cooked to al dente and the meatballs are fully cooked through.
Finishing Touches
Stir gently after cooking to separate the spaghetti. Allow it to rest briefly to thicken the sauce before serving.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat for the meatballs?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives for different flavors.
Regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can be used as an alternative, although the texture may vary slightly.
How do I prevent the spaghetti from getting mushy?
Ensure to break the spaghetti in half and layer it properly with the sauce. Avoid overcooking during the pressure cooking stage.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance. Store in the refrigerator or freezer and cook when ready.
What can I substitute for beef stock?
Vegetable broth or chicken stock can be used as substitutes for beef stock, depending on your preference.
Conclusion
The Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs is a quick and delicious way to enjoy a classic meal with minimal effort. The combination of juicy meatballs and perfectly cooked spaghetti in a rich tomato sauce makes this dish a family favorite. With the Instant Pot, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time, allowing you to spend more time enjoying it with your loved ones.
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