If you’re looking for a quick, hearty, and family-friendly dinner option, your search ends here. This Instant Pot® Ground Beef and Pasta recipe is the perfect solution for weeknight dinners when time is tight and you don’t want to compromise on flavor. With only a few simple ingredients and the magic of your Instant Pot, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes.
Whether you’re an Instant Pot pro or just getting started, this recipe is foolproof, satisfying, and an instant hit with even the pickiest of eaters. Read on to learn how to make this easy one-pot meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Before we jump into the recipe, here’s why this dish will quickly become a staple in your family’s dinner rotation:
- Time-Saving: Dinner is ready in less than half an hour, including prep and cook time. Perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pot Convenience: Minimal cleanup means more time to relax.
- Comfort Food Classic: The combination of ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Customizable: Adjust the recipe with your favorite veggies, seasonings, or pasta shapes to suit your family’s taste!
What You’ll Need
Here’s a quick list of the ingredients and tools you’ll need to make this recipe a breeze:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (lean)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 cups uncooked dried pasta (e.g., penne or rotini)
- 3 cups water or beef broth
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Tools:
- Instant Pot®
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board and knife
How to Make Instant Pot® Ground Beef and Pasta
Follow these six simple steps to get dinner on the table without breaking a sweat:
Step 1: Sauté the Base
Turn on your Instant Pot to the Sauté function. Once it’s hot, add the ground beef and break it into smaller pieces using a wooden spoon. Cook for 3–4 minutes until browned. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant (about 2 minutes). Season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Pro Tip: For extra flavor, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
Step 2: Deglaze the Pot
Pour 1/4 cup of water or beef broth into the pot and gently scrape the bottom to deglaze it. This prevents the dreaded “burn” warning during pressure cooking. Make sure no bits of meat or onion are stuck to the bottom!
Step 3: Add Pasta and Sauce
Turn off the Sauté function. Layer the uncooked pasta evenly on top of the meat mixture. Next, pour in the remaining water or beef broth, ensuring all the pasta is submerged (but do not stir). Spread the marinara sauce evenly on top—this prevents the pasta from sticking together.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set the valve to the Sealing position. Select the Pressure Cook or Manual mode and set the cooking time to 4 minutes (or follow the cook-time instructions on your pasta package divided by two for al dente). The Instant Pot will take a few minutes to pressurize before starting the countdown.
Step 5: Quick-Release the Pressure
When the cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release by turning the valve to the Venting position. Reminder—use a towel or oven mitt for safety. Once the pressure pin drops, open the lid and stir well.
Optional: If you like your pasta extra saucy, feel free to stir in an additional 1/2 cup of marinara sauce.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Serve
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top while the pasta is still hot, letting it melt into gooey perfection. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added flair. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Prevent Overcooking: Be sure to follow the exact cook time for pressure cooking. Pasta can become mushy if cooked for too long.
- Make It Your Own: Add in veggies like diced bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for a healthy twist.
- Use the Right Pasta: Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rotini work best for even cooking.
Storage and Reheating
Got leftovers? No problem! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water to keep the pasta moist.
If you’d like to meal prep, cook the meat base ahead of time and freeze it. When ready to use, simply add pasta, sauce, and broth for a quick cooking session.
Why the Instant Pot Is a Game-Changer for Busy Families
Busy families often need meals that are quick, easy, and clean-up friendly. This Instant Pot® Ground Beef and Pasta recipe ticks all those boxes and more. With its ability to sauté, pressure cook, and keep meals warm all in one appliance, the Instant Pot® is the ultimate kitchen tool for anyone who values their time (and sanity).
Starting dinner late? Forgot to defrost the meat? The Instant Pot has you covered. Its versatility ensures you can make delicious, home-cooked meals in record time—even when the day doesn’t go as planned.
Make Dinner Effortless Tonight!
Dinner doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. This Instant Pot® Ground Beef and Pasta recipe is proof that quick, homemade meals can still taste amazing. Whether you’re new to pressure cooking or a seasoned pro, this dish will become a regular in your dinner rotation.
Get your Instant Pot® ready and give this recipe a try tonight—it’s the perfect mix of flavor, convenience, and comfort.
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