Instant Pot Monterey Spaghetti is like a warm hug from your grandma, but instead of a sweater, it’s a plate of deliciousness that wraps you in savory spaghetti goodness. Imagine twirling strands of pasta around your fork, each bite bursting with rich tomatoes and zesty spices that dance on your palate like they’re auditioning for a Broadway show. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that promises to make your taste buds sing and your kitchen smell like heaven. For more inspiration, check out this Delicious Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, the kind that makes you want to curl up with a good book and a bowl of something comforting. You’re craving something hearty and flavorful, but the thought of slaving away in the kitchen all day makes you want to dive back under the covers. Chicken Pad Thai recipe Enter our hero—the Instant Pot Monterey Spaghetti! This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for those cozy nights when you want to impress your family or friends without breaking a sweat.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Instant Pot Monterey Spaghetti is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners less stressful.
- The flavor profile combines tangy tomatoes with savory spices for an unforgettable taste.
- Visually, this dish is a feast for the eyes with its vibrant colors and hearty texture.
- It’s versatile enough to be served as a main dish or as a side at gatherings.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Monterey Spaghetti
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Spaghetti: Regular spaghetti works well; choose whole wheat for added fiber if desired.
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease, or substitute turkey for a lighter option.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds flavor and helps brown the meat perfectly.
- Onion: One medium onion, chopped finely adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives this dish its aromatic charm—don’t skimp on it!
For the Sauce:
- Canned Diced Tomatoes: Use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for extra smokiness or regular canned ones if preferred.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that enhances the overall flavor profile; feel free to adjust according to taste.
- Beef Broth: Provides moisture and rich flavor; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors—season generously!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Instant Pot Monterey Spaghetti
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Sauté the Meat
Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add some olive oil and let it heat up before adding in the ground beef. Cook until browned while breaking it apart into crumbles—about five minutes should do!
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Once your meat is browned, toss in chopped onions and minced garlic into the pot. Sauté until they are translucent and fragrant—about three minutes should bring out those lovely aromas.
Step 3: Stir in Tomatoes and Seasonings
Add canned diced tomatoes along with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and beef broth into the pot. Give everything a good stir so that those robust flavors mingle together like old friends at a reunion.
Step 4: Mix in Spaghetti
Now it’s time for the star of the show! Break the spaghetti noodles in half (because we’re not barbarians) and nestle them gently into the sauce mixture. Don’t stir yet; let them sit on top like they’re sunbathing at the beach.
Step 5: Pressure Cook
Seal your Instant Pot lid according to manufacturer instructions. Set it to cook on high pressure for just eight minutes! Yes, only eight minutes—you can scroll through social media while you wait!
Step 6: Release Pressure
When cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release of pressure according to your Instant Pot instructions. Once it’s safe to open, give everything a gentle stir until combined.
Transfer to plates and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese or fresh basil for an aesthetically pleasing finish—if you’re feeling fancy!
Now sit back and bask in compliments from friends or family who may think you’re some sort of culinary wizard! Enjoy every bite of this delightful creation made effortlessly in your Instant Pot Monterey Spaghetti adventure!
You Must Know
- This Instant Pot Monterey Spaghetti recipe is not just a meal; it’s a game changer.
- With its rich flavors and speedy prep, you can have dinner on the table in no time.
- Plus, it’s a hit for both kids and adults alike!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To ensure your Instant Pot Monterey Spaghetti turns out perfectly, start by sautéing the onions and garlic. Then, add your spaghetti and sauce before sealing the pot to cook under pressure. This sequence maximizes flavor and efficiency!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Instant Pot Monterey Spaghetti! Swap out ground beef for turkey or add some spinach for a healthy twist. Experiment with spices like red pepper flakes to kick up the heat!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Instant Pot Monterey Spaghetti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave it or stir it in a pan with a splash of water to retain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your Instant Pot Monterey Spaghetti is always delicious, use high-quality ingredients for maximum flavor.
- Avoid overcooking the pasta by following the recommended timing closely.
- Lastly, don’t forget to taste as you go—adjust spices according to your family’s preferences!
I once made this Instant Pot Monterey Spaghetti for a family gathering and received rave reviews! My uncle even asked if I could cater his next barbecue—now that’s a compliment that warms my heart!
FAQs:
What is Instant Pot Monterey Spaghetti?
Instant Pot Monterey Spaghetti is a delicious and hearty pasta dish that combines spaghetti with savory ingredients like ground beef, marinara sauce, and cheese. This recipe is designed for the Instant Pot, which allows for quick cooking while infusing flavors. creamy crack chicken chili creamy zucchini sauce It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting meal on the table in no time. For more inspiration, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe recipe.
How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Monterey Spaghetti?
Cooking Instant Pot Monterey Spaghetti takes about 20 minutes, including the time it takes for the pot to come to pressure. Once you sauté the ground beef and add the spaghetti along with the sauce, it cooks under pressure for just 8 minutes. beef enchiladas with red sauce The quick release makes it easy to serve right away, ensuring you enjoy a hot and flavorful meal.
Can I customize my Instant Pot Monterey Spaghetti?
Absolutely! You can customize your Instant Pot Monterey Spaghetti by adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Substitute ground turkey or sausage if you prefer a different type of meat. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different cheeses or spices to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Is Instant Pot Monterey Spaghetti suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Instant Pot Monterey Spaghetti is ideal for meal prep. You can make a larger batch and store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat portions in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick lunch or dinner option throughout the week. This makes it convenient for busy schedules while still enjoying homemade meals.
Conclusion for Instant Pot Monterey Spaghetti:
In summary, Instant Pot Monterey Spaghetti is not only quick and easy to prepare but also versatile and satisfying. With its rich flavors and customizable options, this dish can cater to various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing meals in advance, this recipe will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the delightful combination of spaghetti, meat, and cheese that this dish offers without spending hours cooking!
Instant Pot Monterey Spaghetti
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Instant Pot Monterey Spaghetti is a comforting, one-pot meal that brings together tender spaghetti, savory ground beef, and zesty tomatoes in just minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish delivers rich flavors without the hassle, making it an instant favorite for family dinners. With its ease of preparation and delicious taste, you’ll want to make this hearty pasta dish again and again!
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz canned diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Heat olive oil and brown the ground beef for about 5 minutes.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until translucent (about 3 minutes).
- Stir in diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and beef broth.
- Break spaghetti in half and place it on top without stirring.
- Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
- Perform a quick release of pressure, stir gently to combine, and serve with Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
