Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, classic Italian dish made fast and easy, this Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs is your new go-to dinner recipe. Perfectly cooked pasta, tender meatballs, and rich marinara sauce—all in one pot, with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor!

Why Make Spaghetti and Meatballs in the Instant Pot?

Cooking spaghetti and meatballs in the Instant Pot is a game-changer. The pressure cooker locks in flavor, ensures even cooking, and delivers a hearty meal in less than 30 minutes. No need to boil pasta separately or use multiple pans—everything cooks together beautifully.

Benefits:

One-pot, no-fuss recipe
Ready in under 30 minutes
Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly
Perfect for busy weeknights
Restaurant-quality results at home

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

1 lb (450g) ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta & Sauce:

12 oz (340g) dry spaghetti, broken in half
1 (24 oz / 680g) jar of marinara or pasta sauce
3 cups water or beef broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a kick

Instructions

1. Make the Meatballs:

In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently and form into 1-inch meatballs.

2. Sauté in the Instant Pot (Optional):

Turn on the Instant Pot to the Sauté function. Add olive oil and lightly brown the meatballs for 2–3 minutes on each side. This adds extra flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.

3. Layer the Ingredients:

Turn off Sauté mode.
Remove meatballs and set aside briefly.
Add broken spaghetti to the pot in a crisscross pattern to prevent sticking.
Pour marinara sauce evenly over the pasta.
Add water or broth, making sure the liquid just covers the pasta.
Gently place meatballs on top without stirring.

4. Pressure Cook:

Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to Pressure Cook (Manual) on High for 8 minutes.
Once done, allow a 5-minute natural release, then carefully do a quick release.

5. Stir and Serve:

Gently stir the pasta and meatballs to combine. If needed, let sit for 2–3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken. Garnish with grated Parmesan and fresh basil before serving.

Pro Tips

Prevent pasta clumping by layering it in a crisscross fashion.
Use broth instead of water for added flavor.
Add veggies like spinach or mushrooms after cooking for a nutritious twist.
Double the meatballs and freeze half for next time.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs with:

Garlic bread or breadsticks
A fresh Caesar or garden salad
A glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon

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