Hey, friends! Today, we’re diving into a classic comfort food favorite with a modern twist—Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs. This recipe takes everything you love about a home-cooked Italian dinner and makes it quicker, easier, and dare I say, more delicious. No pots to scrub for hours, no standing over the stove. It’s all about minimal effort and maximum flavor!
If you’re looking for a one-pot wonder that feels like a hug in a bowl, this Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs is exactly what you need. Let’s jump in!
### Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Convenient: Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need dinner on the table fast.
- No Extra Pans: Everything cooks right in the Instant Pot—yes, even the pasta!
- Family Approved: Kid-friendly, cozy, and downright irresistible.
- Bursting with Flavor: Tender meatballs, twirl-worthy spaghetti, and a savory tomato sauce all come together beautifully.
### Ingredients Breakdown
Essentials
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef or a mix of beef and pork for juicier meatballs. Turkey works too!
- Bread Crumbs & Egg: These help bind the meatballs, keeping them moist and flavorful.
- Grated Parmesan: Adds richness to the meatballs. Freshly grated is best, but pre-shredded works in a pinch.
- Spaghetti: Classic spaghetti noodles are traditional, but feel free to swap in whole wheat or gluten-free varieties.
- Marinara Sauce: A high-quality jarred sauce works wonderfully here or use homemade for extra flair.
- Chicken or Beef Broth: Adds depth to the sauce and ensures the pasta cooks to perfection.
- Seasonings: A mix of garlic, oregano, and basil keeps it simple yet flavorful.
Pro Tips
- If you don’t eat beef, swap in ground chicken or turkey for the meatballs.
- No broth on hand? Water with a few teaspoons of bouillon works, too.
- Love a little spice? Toss in crushed red pepper flakes for a kick!
### Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Meatballs
In a bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—don’t overwork it! Roll into 1-inch balls.
Step 2: Sear the Meatballs
Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and add a drizzle of olive oil. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning gently with tongs. You don’t need to cook them through—just get some color. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Turn off the “Sauté” mode, then pour a thin layer of marinara sauce to coat the bottom of the pot. Break the spaghetti in half and layer it in a criss-cross pattern on top. Add the meatballs back in and cover with the remaining marinara sauce. Pour in the broth, making sure the pasta is submerged. Do not stir.

Step 4: Pressure Cook
Set your Instant Pot to “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” mode on high pressure for 8 minutes. When the timer goes off, do a quick release of pressure. Carefully open the lid and give everything a gentle stir to combine.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
Serve the spaghetti and meatballs hot, garnished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Add a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for the ultimate Italian-inspired meal.
### Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Don’t Overwork the Meat: Gentle mixing keeps the meatballs tender.
- Layer Smart: Criss-crossing the pasta helps prevent it from clumping together.
- Deglaze the Pot: If the meatballs leave any browned bits, splash a little broth in and scrape the bottom to avoid a burn notice.
### Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Veggie Version: Swap the meatballs for plant-based ones or roasted veggies.
- Add Cheese: Top with shredded mozzarella and broil for a baked spaghetti vibe.
- Bulk It Up: Stir in sautéed mushrooms or diced zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Perfect Pairings: This dish goes wonderfully with a side of Caesar salad, a glass of red wine, or even sparkling water with lemon.
### FAQs
- Can I Freeze This? Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- What If My Pasta Isn’t Fully Cooked? Close the lid and let everything sit on “Keep Warm” for 5-10 minutes. The steam will finish cooking the pasta.
- Can I Double the Recipe? Yes! Just make sure not to overfill your Instant Pot—it should be no more than 2/3 full to avoid pressure issues.
I can’t wait for you to try this Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs—it’s everything you need for a stress-free, delicious dinner that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag #TheKitchensAid on social media. I’d love to see your creations and hear what you think!