Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs

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Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs

Introduction

Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs is the ultimate one-pot comfort food that combines tender meatballs, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich tomato sauce—all made in a fraction of the time. Traditionally, spaghetti and meatballs require multiple pots and pans, long simmering sauces, and careful timing of pasta. But with the Instant Pot, this classic Italian-American dish becomes not only quicker but also more flavorful, since the pressure cooking helps infuse the pasta and meatballs with sauce.

This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or anyone craving a hearty meal without the hassle of multiple dishes. It’s a dish that represents love, comfort, and tradition but with a modern kitchen twist.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Sauce & Pasta:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or homemade)
  • 3 cups beef broth (or water)
  • 12 oz spaghetti, broken in half
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil or Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
  • Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions / Methods

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

  1. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until combined.
  2. Roll into 1–1.5 inch meatballs. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

  1. Set Instant Pot to Sauté mode.
  2. Heat olive oil, then add onions and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and slightly golden (about 2–3 minutes).

Step 3: Layer Meatballs, Pasta & Sauce

  1. Cancel Sauté mode.
  2. Gently place meatballs in the pot.
  3. Break spaghetti noodles in half and layer them crisscrossed on top of meatballs (this prevents clumping).
  4. Pour marinara sauce over noodles.
  5. Add broth (or water) around the sides, ensuring pasta is just covered. Do not stir—this keeps the pasta from sticking.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

  1. Lock the lid and set Instant Pot to Manual (High Pressure) for 8 minutes.
  2. Once cooking is done, allow 5 minutes natural release, then quick release the remaining pressure.

Step 5: Stir & Serve

  1. Carefully stir everything together to coat pasta and meatballs in sauce.
  2. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra herbs.
  3. Serve hot, topped with fresh parsley and Parmesan.

History of Spaghetti and Meatballs

Although spaghetti and meatballs are often associated with Italian cuisine, the dish is actually more Italian-American in origin. In Italy, meatballs (polpette) are typically smaller and not usually served with pasta. When Italian immigrants came to America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, they adapted their recipes to available ingredients—beef was more affordable and abundant, and pairing meatballs with pasta in tomato sauce became a filling, family-friendly dish. Over time, it became a cornerstone of Italian-American cuisine, symbolizing both tradition and comfort.

The Instant Pot version is a modern adaptation that keeps the spirit of the dish alive while making it faster and more accessible for today’s busy kitchens.

Benefits

  • Time-saving: Everything cooks in one pot in under 30 minutes.
  • Flavor-packed: Pressure cooking infuses pasta and meatballs with sauce.
  • Family-friendly: Loved by both kids and adults.
  • Less cleanup: One pot instead of three or four.
  • Customizable: Works with turkey, chicken, or vegetarian meatballs too.

Formation (Serving Ideas)

  • Serve with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
  • Garnish with basil and Parmesan for a restaurant-style touch.
  • Pair with a glass of red wine for adults or sparkling water with lemon for kids.
  • Great for meal prep—leftovers taste even better the next day.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. This modern twist on a beloved Italian-American classic delivers the same heartwarming flavors in a fraction of the time. It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for feeding both small families and big crowds. Every bite brings the tenderness of meatballs, the richness of sauce, and the coziness of pasta—all from one pot.

Lovers of This Dish

  • Busy parents: Quick and easy dinner solution.
  • Italian-American food lovers: Nostalgic and comforting.
  • Instant Pot fans: Perfect one-pot meal.
  • Kids and picky eaters: Familiar, hearty, and delicious.
  • Meal preppers: Easy to make ahead and reheat.

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