Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
You’ll love this Instant Pot spaghetti sauce recipe for its incredible flavor and simplicity. I can’t get enough of how quickly it comes together, especially on busy nights.
The pressure cooker works its magic, infusing all those delicious ingredients in no time. I appreciate that I can throw everything in and let it do the work while I focus on other tasks.
Plus, the aroma that fills my kitchen while it cooks is just heavenly. It’s the perfect balance of savory and sweet, making it a favorite in my household.
Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!
Ingredients of Instant Pot Spaghetti Sauce
When it comes to whipping up a delicious spaghetti sauce in no time, the Instant Pot is a game changer. Not only does it save you hours of simmering on the stove, but it also combines all the flavors beautifully, creating a mouthwatering sauce that your whole family will love.
The best part? You probably already have most of these ingredients in your pantry, making it super easy to throw together. So, let’s explore what you’ll need to make this scrumptious Instant Pot spaghetti sauce.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3-4 fresh garlic cloves, minced
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 6 ounces tomato paste
- 680 ml tomato sauce
- 3 teaspoons dried basil
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup red wine
- 2 teaspoons crushed fennel seeds
- Parmesan rind (a chunk for extra flavor)
Now, let’s talk about some of these ingredients and why they matter. The ground beef is the backbone of the sauce, adding heartiness and protein, while the onions and garlic provide that aromatic base that makes your kitchen smell divine.
The crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce are essential for that rich, tomatoey goodness. And don’t be shy with the herbs and spices; they’re what elevate your sauce from ordinary to extraordinary!
You can also tweak the recipe based on what you have. If you’re vegetarian, feel free to swap the beef for a plant-based alternative. Just remember, cooking is all about experimenting and finding what works for you.
How to Make Instant Pot Spaghetti Sauce
Let’s plunge into the delicious process of making Instant Pot Spaghetti Sauce. First things first, you’ll want to set your Instant Pot to the Sauté or Browning mode—this is where the magic begins.
Once it’s heated up, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pot. Seriously, it’s like the first step in a dance; you need that oil to get things moving. After that, toss in the 2 lbs of ground beef. As it sizzles, break it up with a spatula or wooden spoon, giving it a good stir until it’s browned. If you’re not a meat eater, you can skip this part and jump straight to the next steps.
With the beef cooked, it’s time to bring in the flavor squad. Add in your chopped onion and minced garlic (about 3-4 cloves), and let them mingle in the pot for a few minutes until they’re fragrant and the onions start to soften. Oh, the smell will be delightful, and you might find yourself feeling like a gourmet chef already.
Now, the fun really begins. You’ll want to add in the 28 ounces of crushed tomatoes, the 6 ounces of tomato paste, and the 680 ml of tomato sauce. Stir it all together like you’re crafting a masterpiece.
Next, sprinkle in 3 teaspoons of dried basil, 2 teaspoons of dried parsley flakes, 2 teaspoons of brown sugar for sweetness, and a sprinkle of sea salt (2 teaspoons). Don’t forget that pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick, and the 1/4 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper to round it all out.
For a touch of depth, pour in 1/4 cup of red wine and add 2 teaspoons of crushed fennel seeds. Trust me, this is where the sauce gets its soul. And if you have a parmesan rind lying around, toss that in too; it’s like adding a secret ingredient that makes everything better.
Once you have everything in the pot, lock on the lid and close the pressure valve. Now, cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. When the beep sounds, you’ll want to let it naturally release for 15 minutes before doing a quick release.
This is the moment you can twiddle your thumbs, or maybe even sneak a taste of the sauce before it’s done. The anticipation is part of the excitement, right?
When it’s all done, you’ll be rewarded with a rich, flavorful spaghetti sauce that’s ready to be served over your favorite pasta. It’s comfort food at its finest, and just think about it—dinner is practically done in under an hour. How great is that?
Instant Pot Spaghetti Sauce Substitutions & Variations
After whipping up a delicious batch of Instant Pot spaghetti sauce, you might find yourself wanting to switch things up.
I love experimenting with different proteins, so try swapping ground beef for turkey or even plant-based crumbles. You can also play with the herbs—fresh basil or oregano adds a vibrant twist!
If you want a spicier kick, toss in more red pepper flakes. For a richer flavor, substitute the red wine with balsamic vinegar.
Finally, you can add veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra nutrition. The possibilities are endless, and I’m excited to see what you create!
What to Serve with Instant Pot Spaghetti Sauce
If you’re wondering what to serve with your Instant Pot spaghetti sauce, there are plenty of delicious options to complement this hearty dish.
I love pairing it with al dente spaghetti or a bed of zoodles for a lighter twist. Garlic bread is a must for scooping up any leftover sauce, and a fresh green salad adds a nice crunch.
For a more filling meal, try serving it over polenta or with a side of risotto. Don’t forget some grated Parmesan on top for extra flavor!
These combinations make every bite of spaghetti sauce even more enjoyable.
Additional Tips & Notes
While making Instant Pot spaghetti sauce is straightforward, there are a few additional tips that can elevate your dish.
First, don’t skip the red wine; it adds depth and richness. If you like a thicker sauce, consider reducing the tomato sauce or simmering it a bit after cooking.
Fresh herbs can make a big difference, so feel free to add basil or parsley at the end for brightness. For a touch of sweetness, adjust the brown sugar to taste.
Finally, let the flavors meld by letting the sauce sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious creation!