Name: Instant Pot Spaghetti Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground beef (I use 85/15); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 clove garlic, minced (optional); 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 (24 ounce) jar pasta sauce; 1 3/4 cups water; 1 teaspoon Better Than Bouillon (chicken base); 8 ounces spaghetti, broken in half (1/2 pound); 4 tablespoons butter; Parmesan cheese; Parsley or basil; Red pepper flakes

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of a rich, cozy Italian classic that comes together in one pot with next-to-no fuss, you’re about to fall head over heels for Instant Pot Spaghetti. From browning beef to perfectly cooked noodles all in the same magic gadget, this weeknight wonder delivers a sauce-laden, comforting bowl every time. The sauce infuses right through the pasta in a way the stovetop can only envy, and trust me: once you try this version, it’ll become your quick dinner hero.

Instant Pot Spaghetti Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

A handful of thoughtful ingredients is all it takes to create Instant Pot Spaghetti that’s deeply savory, super satisfying, and a touch luxurious. Each component brings its own flair and richness, making every bite better than the last.

Olive oil: Adds a golden base and prevents the beef from sticking, while bringing extra smoothness to the sauce.
Ground beef (85/15): The right ratio of fat means juicy, flavorful bites without excess grease.
Garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning: The trifecta for rounding out that iconic savory flavor—no bland sauce here!
Minced garlic (optional): Use fresh for a punchy boost if you love extra garlic depth.
Kosher salt: Essential for amplifying every other ingredient; taste as you go!
Pasta sauce (24 oz jar): Choose a basil-forward or traditional tomato blend you love, as it sets the overall tone.
Water: Balances out the thick sauce so the pasta doesn’t clump or undercook.
Better Than Bouillon (chicken base): Adds incredible savory backbone and complexity; a little goes a long way.
Spaghetti (8 oz, broken in half): Halving the noodles keeps them submerged and evenly cooked.
Butter: Stirred in at the end for silkiness and a touch of indulgence.
Parmesan cheese: A must! Offers salt, richness, and that classic finish.
Parsley or basil: Fresh green flecks not only look beautiful but add pop and freshness.
Red pepper flakes: Optional, but just a pinch will liven up the whole plate with a little heat.

How to Make Instant Pot Spaghetti

Step 1: Sauté the Meat and Seasonings

Get your Instant Pot sizzling on sauté mode and drizzle in the olive oil. Immediately add the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, minced garlic (if using), and salt. The aroma will be incredible right from the start! Sauté while breaking up the meat—this builds deep flavor and ensures a hearty, meaty base for your Instant Pot Spaghetti.

Step 2: Add Sauce, Water, Bouillon, and Pasta

With the beef nicely browned, pour in the jar of pasta sauce, water, and swirl in your Better Than Bouillon. It’s time for the star: the spaghetti! Break the noodles in half so they fit comfortably, spreading them in a crisscross pattern for even cooking. Press them gently to make sure every noodle is in contact with the liquid.

Step 3: Pressure Cook to Perfection

Lock on the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. This is where the magic happens; the noodles absorb all the rich tomato flavor as they cook, capturing that classic saucy comfort of traditional spaghetti—without the stovetop babysitting.

Step 4: Quick Release the Steam

As soon as the timer goes off, place a kitchen towel over the vent (to curb the occasional splatter) and perform a quick release. Opening right away keeps the pasta from overcooking and getting mushy. Expect steam, but you’re seconds away from dinner!

Step 5: Stir, Rest, and Marry the Flavors

The moment you open your Instant Pot, things might look a little saucy. That’s exactly right! Use tongs to mix everything together; let it sit for ten minutes on ‘keep warm’ mode. This step lets the spaghetti soak up extra sauce, so each bite is lush and perfectly coated.

Step 6: Finish with Butter and Serve

Give your almost-finished pasta a final flourish: add the butter and gently toss. The sauce will turn glossy and luxuriously smooth. Pile high, shower with Parmesan, scatter over fresh herbs, and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired. Your Instant Pot Spaghetti is officially dinner-table ready!

How to Serve Instant Pot Spaghetti

Garnishes

Go all out with generous handfuls of freshly grated Parmesan cheese—nothing says classic Italian like a snowy crown of cheese! A scattering of chopped parsley or basil brings brightness and color, and if you enjoy a little kick, a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes works wonders.

Side Dishes

No pot of Instant Pot Spaghetti is complete without garlicky bread for dunking and scooping up extra sauce. Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed simply in olive oil and balsamic—for freshness and crunch that balances all that comforting richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your spaghetti night into something special by serving it in wide, shallow bowls. For a fun twist, try piling the pasta into a baking dish, topping with mozzarella, and broiling just until bubbly and golden for a quick spaghetti bake. Or, offer a mini toppings bar with extra cheese, herbs, and roasted veggies for everyone to customize at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Instant Pot Spaghetti keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and let cool completely before sealing—this helps keep the noodles from turning mushy.

Freezing

For longer storage, portion cooled spaghetti into freezer-safe containers or bags. Squeeze out as much air as possible and freeze for up to 2 months. To avoid breakage, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To bring your Instant Pot Spaghetti back to life, reheat gently in the microwave (with a splash of water or broth for moisture) or on the stovetop over low heat. A little extra Parmesan or a pat of butter stirred in will make leftovers taste freshly made.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! Penne, linguine, or fettuccine work well in the Instant Pot, though you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the thickness and brand.

Do I have to break the spaghetti noodles in half?

Yes, breaking the spaghetti ensures all the strands are submerged in liquid and cook evenly. Whole noodles tend to clump and may not hydrate properly in the Instant Pot’s limited space.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You sure can! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms, and use vegetable Better Than Bouillon in place of chicken for a hearty, meat-free Instant Pot Spaghetti.

What if my sauce seems too watery when I open the Instant Pot?

Don’t worry! Give it a good mix and let everything rest for at least 10 minutes. The noodles will absorb more liquid as they sit, resulting in a luscious, clingy sauce.

Is it possible to double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure you don’t fill the Instant Pot above the maximum fill line. Cooking time remains the same, but allow extra time for the pot to come up to pressure.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a no-fuss family meal that tastes like a labor of love, give this Instant Pot Spaghetti a try. It brings all the Italian comfort, weeknight ease, and saucy joy you could ask for—all with a single push of a button. One bite and you’ll see why it’s a favorite at my table. Enjoy every twirl!

Instant Pot Spaghetti Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 15 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Learn how to make delicious Instant Pot Spaghetti that’s quick, easy, and full of flavor. This recipe simplifies the classic spaghetti dish by using the Instant Pot, resulting in perfectly cooked noodles and a rich, savory sauce.

Instructions

Meat: Turn on the sauté function in the Instant Pot. Sauté olive oil, ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, garlic, and salt until browned and cooked through.
Sauce: Add pasta sauce, water, Better Than Bouillon, and spaghetti to the pot, ensuring noodles are submerged in the liquid.
Cook: Close the lid, set to high pressure, and cook for 8 minutes.
Release Steam: Use a towel to cover the vent and quick-release steam to prevent overcooking.
Rest: After opening, stir and let rest for 10 minutes to allow noodles to absorb sauce.
Finish: Stir in butter until creamy. Serve topped with Parmesan and optional herbs and spices.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding cooked vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
You can customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
Feel free to garnish with additional fresh herbs or grated cheese.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Instant Pot
Cuisine: Italian