Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen after a long day? Craving a delicious, comforting pasta dish but don't want the fuss? Then this InstaPot pasta recipe is your answer! This incredibly easy recipe delivers perfectly cooked pasta and a flavorful sauce in a fraction of the time compared to traditional stovetop methods. It's a fantastic example of healthy meals made simple, perfect for busy weeknights or even a relaxed weekend lunch. Get ready to elevate your quick dinner ideas with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a lighter option)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In your Instant Pot, combine the pasta, chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
Step 2: Pressure Cook
Secure the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 4 minutes. For larger pasta shapes like shells or rigatoni, you might need to increase cooking time to 5-6 minutes. Always refer to your pasta package's cooking time as a guide.
Step 3: Natural Pressure Release
Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure. This slow release prevents the pasta from becoming mushy.
Step 4: Stir and Serve
Once the pressure is completely released, carefully open the lid and stir the pasta gently. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more broth or cream. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired, and serve immediately.
Cooking Tips for Perfect InstaPot Pasta:
- Don't overcook: Overcooked pasta will become mushy. Start with the shorter cooking time and increase as needed, depending on your pasta type and your Instant Pot.
- Use good quality broth: The broth forms the base of your sauce, so using a flavorful broth makes a big difference.
- Adjust seasonings: Taste and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You can add red pepper flakes for a spicier dish, or other herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Add protein: Boost the protein content by adding cooked chicken, sausage, or meatballs to the Instant Pot during the last few minutes of cooking.
Delicious Variations:
- Creamy Tomato Pesto Pasta: Stir in 1/2 cup of pesto along with the heavy cream for a richer, more flavorful sauce.
- Spicy Arrabiata: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes and a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a fiery kick.
- Lemon Garlic Pasta: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with extra garlic for a bright and zesty flavor.
- Vegetable Pasta: Add your favorite vegetables, such as chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, during the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 15-20g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This InstaPot pasta recipe is a simple, delicious, and healthy meal that's perfect for any night of the week. Its speed and convenience make it a true winner in the world of easy recipes and best recipes. Enjoy!