Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs

This Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs is a quick and delicious one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and no need to boil water separately, you’ll have a comforting Italian dinner in just 30 minutes!

Ingredients

For the Meatballs (Optional, or Use Frozen):

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Spaghetti and Sauce:

• 12 oz (340g) spaghetti, broken in half
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
• 3 cups water or beef broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
• Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs (If Using Homemade)

1. In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Form into 1-inch (2.5 cm) meatballs.

Step 2: Sauté the Meatballs (Optional for Extra Flavor)

1. Turn the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and heat olive oil.
2. Brown the meatballs on all sides (about 2-3 minutes). Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

1. Pour half of the marinara sauce into the Instant Pot.
2. Lay the broken spaghetti on top in crisscross layers to prevent sticking.
3. Add the remaining sauce, water (or broth), salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
4. Place the meatballs (cooked or frozen) on top without stirring.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

1. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
2. Cook on High Pressure for 8 minutes.
3. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then do a quick release.

Step 5: Stir and Serve

1. Gently stir everything to combine.
2. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes to thicken.
3. Serve with grated Parmesan and fresh basil.

Tips for the Best Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs

✔ Use frozen meatballs to save time—no need to brown them first.
✔ Don’t stir before cooking to prevent the spaghetti from sticking to the bottom.
✔ Adjust the liquid—if you like a thicker sauce, reduce the water slightly.

This Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs is a quick, hearty meal with minimal cleanup, perfect for any night of the week!