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Instant Pot Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

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Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meat Sauce makes a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s cooked entirely in the Instant Pot so you’ll have minimal dishes and a dinner that makes the whole family happy!

A bowl of spaghetti and meat sauce topped with grated parmesan


Easy Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meat Sauce

Instant Pot spaghetti and meat sauce is the solution to getting a weeknight dinner that everyone loves on the table fast.

This pasta dish comes together in less than 30 minutes from start to finish thanks to the Instant Pot (affil link). The meat sauce and pasta cook together at the same time, so you don’t need to worry about boiling the noodles separately either.

I know all of you Italians out there are shaking your head but when I fed this to my Italian husband, he came back for seconds. Sometimes quick and easy really just hits the spot!

No Instant Pot? No problem. Check out my stovetop spaghetti and meat sauce recipe instead! And if you prefer spaghetti and meatballs, check out my Instant Pot spaghetti and turkey meatballs recipe too.

Overhead view of a bowl of spaghetti and meat sauce

Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Spaghetti

Here are a few reasons this is my favorite spaghetti and meat sauce recipe.

  • Only one pot needed. Everything is cooked together in the Instant Pot, so you’ll have virtually no dishes after preparing this dish.
  • Ready in under 30 minutes. From start to finish, this pasta dinner takes just 30 minutes to prepare.
  • Just a handful of ingredients. You won’t need much more than ground turkey, your favorite pasta sauce, and spaghetti noodles to prepare this recipe.
Delallo brand tomato basil sauce and wheat pasta

What You’ll Need

This spaghetti and meat sauce recipe uses just a handful of simple ingredients. See the recipe card below for measurements.

  • Ground turkey – You can also use ground beef.
  • Salt
  • Aromatics – Onion and garlic add flavor to the dish.
  • Sauce – I love to use Delallo Tomato Basil Pomodoro Sauce but homemade marinara is fantastic too.
  • Water
  • Spaghetti – This recipe was tested with whole wheat and gluten-free pasta. I like to use the Delallo brand.
  • Parmesan cheese – Optional for serving.

How to Make Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meat Sauce

This one pot spaghetti and meat sauce recipe comes together in just a few minutes.

  • Cook the turkey and aromatics. Hit saute on the Instant Pot. When hot, add the turkey and salt. Break the turkey into crumbles and cook for about 3 minutes. Add the onions and garlic. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
  • Add the remaining ingredients. Break the spaghetti in half and add it, the sauce, and water to the pot. Make sure the liquid covers everything but don’t stir.
  • Cook. Cook on high pressure for 9 minutes.
  • Enjoy. Quick release then serve topped with grated parmesan.

Can I Make This On The Stovetop?

Yes, you can easily make spaghetti and meat sauce on the stove. Simply combine everything in a large pot, cover, and cook over medium-low heat for about 17 minutes. Stir halfway through the cooking time.

A bowl of spaghetti with meat sauce topped with parmesan cheese

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips for making this Instant Pot pasta dish.

  • Don’t forget to add the water. Since the pasta is cooked right in the sauce, you will need to add water to the pot along with the sauce.
  • Make sure the liquid covers the pasta. If using the proportions mentioned in the recipe, this shouldn’t be an issue. You do not want to stir the ingredients but the pasta needs to be completely covered.
  • Break the spaghetti. Break the spaghetti noodles in half, so they fit in the Instant Pot easily.
  • Make sure to use the instant release. If you try the natural release, the pasta will continue to cook and become too soft.
Overhead view of two bowls of spaghetti and meat sauce

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your Instant Pot spaghetti and meat sauce immediately. It should be cooked to perfectly al dente and if it continues to cook, the noodles will absorb more of the sauce.

I love to top my pasta with some freshly grated parmesan cheese.

This can be enjoyed as a meal on its own but if you want to add a side, consider some garlic bread or rosemary garlic parmesan biscuits. A simple side salad, such as a wedge salad or Caesar salad, makes a lovely addition to turn it into a full meal as well.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

  • Store. Store any leftover spaghetti and meat sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat. You can reheat leftovers in the microwave. You may want to add a splash of extra sauce or water, as the pasta does absorb quite a bit of sauce.

More Easy Pasta Dishes

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Instant Pot One-Pot Spaghetti and Meat Sauce

4.59 from 102 votes
9
Cals:390
Protein:23.5
Carbs:44
Fat:14
Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meat Sauce makes a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's cooked entirely in the Instant Pot so you'll have minimal dishes and a dinner that makes the whole family happy!
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Instant Pot One-Pot Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
Prep: 5 minutes
Cook: 15 minutes
Total: 30 minutes
Yield: 5 servings
Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Press saute on the Instant Pot. When hot add the turkey and salt and cook, breaking up about 3 minutes.
  • Add the onions, and garlic and cook until softened, 3 to 4 minutes.
  • Add the Pomodoro sauce, water and spaghetti (broken in half), making sure the liquid covers everything without stirring.
  • Cover and cook on high pressure 9 minutes.
  • Quick release so the pasta doesn’t continue cooking, and serve topped with grated cheese if desired!

Last Step:

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Notes

Recipe created in partnership with Delallo Foods, a brand I love and use in my kitchen.
Note: The newer IP models have a hair trigger burn sensor that can’t tell the difference between a slight caramelized residue, which is good, and totally burnt. To avoid this, when using the saute button always deglaze the pot after sauteeing with a tablespoon or two of water or broth before adding your other ingredients.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 1/2 cups, Calories: 390 kcal, Carbohydrates: 44 g, Protein: 23.5 g, Fat: 14 g, Cholesterol: 64 mg, Sodium: 738 mg, Fiber: 5.5 g, Sugar: 7 g

Categories:

Recipe created in partnership with Delallo Foods, a brand I love and use in my kitchen.

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431 comments on “Instant Pot Spaghetti with Meat Sauce”

  1. This was great. I’m an Italian who makes all my sauce from scratch usually, so I was a skeptic! I didn’t have turkey or mest to brown so I added some sausage on top that I pre cooked. I quadrupled the recipe.

    My only suggestion is to fan out the spaghetti. It stuck together in places where I didn’t do this.

  2. One of our very favorite meals- it’s on weekly rotation, and my husband thinks it tastes restaurant-quality.

  3. I love this recipe but want to make it with a pound (16 oz) of spaghetti. Can anyone tell me how to adjust the liquids and cooking time to accommodate this?

  4. Avatar photo
    Jessica Hanson

    Can this recipe be doubled or tripled? Trying to find a quick and easy recipe to feed a large group with limited kitchen capabilities

  5. I used Rigatoni. Same cooking time. This is sooo easy and so good. Perfect! It will be a staple go-to!

  6. Avatar photo
    Heather Daley

    How do you need get clumps on uncooked, stuck together spaghetti? Otherwise the kids loved it!

  7. Crowd pleaser for both young & old! Easy & fast dinner for those nights when you’re tired. I like to do Roa’s marinara & cut the meat in half. Pick up a bagged salad & bread & done!

  8. One of my favorite go-to recipes. So easy in the Instant Pot. I always use whole grain spaghetti and ground turkey. It is simple but delicous!

  9. My hubby says it’s the best pasta I’ve ever made! I also added finely chopped carrots, zucchini, and red peppers. It was excellent and so easy. The sauce infuses the pasta: no watery sauce left in the plate.

  10. A favorite–finally did this one. I usually don’t eat pasta, and go for all the possible no carb alternatives–spaghetti squash, zucchini noodles etc, but decided to give this a try as it is nostalgic for me to have pasta and meat sauce all made together this way. My mom did on stove top like this and I didn’t know spaghetti any other way! The pressure cooker makes this super easy and fast. For anyone wondering if a different size pasta works–yes it does, I was out of regular spaghetti so I used a bucatini that is much thicker–and cut back to 6 ounces. I kept the time the same. It was perfect, and after stiring and sitting it was not the least bit liquidy. In fact I might cut the pasta back even more next time. I upped the onion to .75 cup as I had some to use, used my own sauce ( Using Delallo crushed tomatoes it so happened) and added a bit more Italian seasonings-excellent and so easy! Can see why this is popular.

  11. What size IP do you use for this recipe? I have the 3qt and would like to use my IP (successfully) to make this recipe. 😆

  12. Avatar photo
    Kelly Leonard

    This is a fantastic recipe! My family absolutely loved it!!!!! Very quick and easy to make. This will be a weekly addition to our meal plan!

  13. Avatar photo
    Melissa Moffett

    Could I just cook the pasta separate and do it like you said for stovetop?  I prefer Barillo Gold pasta.

  14. This was delish! My husband said it was a keeper.
    Question..on the recipe it says “WW points”…when I click that, wants me to sign in. I am a LT member and says “not found”. Would that be because I am in Canada?

      1. This is one of my favorite instant pot recipes from Skinnytaste! Such an easy and quick recipe to do for a dinner that is delicious as well! We love it so much that it is one we like to make a lot.

  15. Hi Gina ! I just made this recipe using my homemade roasted tomato sauce . It was so simple and came out delicious! Thx for sharing!! 

  16. Great recipe for the effort!  I’ve recently started WW and is helpful to have the smart points.  This is my go to site for healthy, great tasting recipes.

  17. Avatar photo
    Caithlin Lopes

    Made this tonight. So easy and so yummy! I was a little worried that I didn’t have enough water so added about 1/2 cup more. Turned out great. Was kid approved. Served with a salad. 

  18. This recipe is fantastic, if you haven’t tried it, why comment on it? So much negativity in this world….. even as simple as the subject of cooking.

  19. You are using a jar of bolognese sauce. Are you kidding me?  This offends my brain, as I lived in Italy 🙂  I love my IP but I would never cook pasta in it. Pasta takes little to no time to cook in a saucepan and you can eyeball it and taste test it to ensure you get just the right amount of al dente. 

    1. What was the point of this comment? You’re rating something you didn’t try or plan on trying. Some of enjoy using the instant pot for a one pot meal, so I appreciate it 🙂

    2. I really don’t understand why you read this entire recipe if so much about it offends you. I was looking for an easy, one pot dish and it led me here. What were you looking for?

  20. I made this with the old fashion pressure cooker, the silver one with the pressure button that makes noise on top. I was a little scared since i’ve only used it to make beans or shred meat. It did come out amazing though and will definitely be making again in the future. Thank you Gina this week has been amazing recipes.

  21. I just made this. It’s super tasty, but the pasta is sticking. Does it need more time? I had more than 2 cups of liquid for the pasta in the pot. 

  22. Will this meal keep for a few days in the fridge or best to eat it all right away? I like to meal prep and put a few servings in the fridge for lunch throughout the week, so wondering if this meal would last okay.

  23. Avatar photo
    Sharon Golden

    Hi. I have made this before I like to put the jarred tomatoe sauce on top of the pasta seal and cook on high for 2 minutes then allow the pressure cooker a natural release for 5 minutes.  This help with splatter when you release the remaining pressure 

  24. You are right about the Delallo sauces!!! I never make my own, so I have tried most of the better brands. No matter what flavor Delallo tops them all by a wide margin!!!

  25. Avatar photo
    Eileen Walker

    I am not sure how people can lose weight eating these foods? I am diabetic and I am not able to eat many of these recipes. Could you please publish some diabetic friendly recipes?

    1. I’ve actually been working out for years and have hit a plateau for the past year so decided to try the Seven day meal plan this week and I have already lost about 4 pounds. So by changing what I eat I have noticed that these recipes are helping me lose weight.

    2. This is a very healthy version on spaghetti bolognese. At 390 calories per serving, it is very reasonable, and fits well with my weight loss plan.  

  26. I just bought my instant pot today and this was the first recipe I made with it tonight… OMG!!! So delicious 

  27. Followed recipe exactly Down to using Delallo brand! There was too  much liquid for me when I opened the pot.  I’ll try using less liquid next time around. Can’t wait to try it. Love the idea of one pot spaghetti!

    1. Correction: I came back several minutes later and all the excess liquid was absorbed! Perfection! Moral of story: let it sit!!

  28. Avatar photo
    Elisabeth Ann Mullins

    When you say cook on high pressure for 9 minutes does that mean I have to switch from sauté to pressure cook?

  29. Avatar photo
    Megan Rowlinson

    This is such a delicious and easy weeknight meal! I sometimes sub sausage or ground chicken depending on what I have on hand. Another great Skinnytaste recipe. Wilmington, DE

  30. The best spaghetti recipe ever! So easy and fast. Ive done it so so so many times and it never fails. I cant find delallo products in my stores. But i stick to healthy and organic etc and it comes out so tasty and delicious. My kids ask for more everytime-and they are the pickiest eaters! 

    1. I do. I brown 2 lbs of ground turkey with onion , drain fat. Scrape the bottom so nothing sticks. Add salt, pepper and chopped garlic and dried Italian seasoning to kick up the flavor. 16oz spaghetti noodles broken in half spread in a tangled flat mess so they wont clump. This will look odd and fill the pot. Then I take a paper plate to mash it down as much as I can. Add 2 and 3/4 cups water. On Top: DO NOT MIX! Spread one can Rotel, one 24.7 oz jar of your favorite spaghetti sauce. ( If I have a leftover jar of sauce in the fridge I add that too. Cant have too much sauce! Lol) Pressure cook 9 min, After it is done do a quick release. Open and stir. I like to add fresh torn up basil. For leftovers do not freeze. Put, still warm, in a container and close tightly or it will dry out fast. Great in fridge for a week.

  31. I have to say this one of my fav instant pot recipes! So fast and great tasting! A staple at our house!

    1. No way – add the zoodles at the very end and stir., then let it sit. Test it every few minutes until the zoodles are the consistency you like. I think zucchini noodles are a great idea!

  32. Props for a truly quick n easy one pot meal. Perfect for a week night. I followed the directions exactly except for using beef instead of turkey. Mike turned out less saucy than I’d like (certainly not dry, but it seemed nearly all the sauce had been absorbed) so next time I’ll use an extra half jar or so. I felt it could have been more flavorful, but perhaps that was my pasta sauce. Next time I’ll add more garlic and some Italian seasoning.

  33. Crazy good! Reminds me of a Baked Spaghetti Casserole without that horrible dryness. This recipe is going into our regular rotation. So easy and so delicious! I have an Instant Pot Ultra Mini (3 qt), I reduced the recipe ingredients by 1/4th, followed directions for time and it is perfect. Thanks!

  34. This is ridiculously easy and very tasty.  The picture doesn’t do it h
    justice.  GIna is right, use good sauce, I used Kroger’s private selection napoletana.
    We are so lucky to have this gal creating recipes.
    She is honestly beyond talented.

  35. Made this tonight with Garlic Knots and a side salad. Delicious! I used ST homemade marinara sauce (3 cups) but that was the only change. Easiest spaghetti recipe ever! Everyone loved it! Going in my recipe collection as a favorite! ❤

  36. Made this last night for a quick meal with the garlic knots. Super easy and turned out great. The meat was moist and tender and the pasta was perfectly done. All the family enjoyed it (which was expected since they are huge pasta fans) and they went back for seconds. The sauce used will be the determining factor of how this dish taste though.

  37. Excellent! I followed everything except the pressure cook time because I realized my spaghetti noodles were the thin kind and I was worried about turning them to mush. I set the time to 4 minutes and then let it sit for about 2 more minutes before doing the manual pressure release. Perfectly cooked.

  38. This recipe was really good! I followed it exactly except I used a little less than 2c of water and I doubled the garlic and it turned out perfect! I also used different sauce because they didn’t carry that kind at my store. Mm mm good 

  39. Avatar photo
    Alicia Turner

    Hi, Gina…love all of your recipes. What is the serving size of the spaghetti . And is this dish meal prep worthy? Thanks in advance 😘

  40. We love this recipe and I make it on my busy trying to jet off to the gym nights. Has anyone ever tried doubling or tripling it? I am too scared of messing some kind of ratio up or wasting the ingredients if it doesn’t turn out right. Just would be nice to whip this up for a bigger gathering.

  41. Made this for dinner last night. It’s a keeper! So quick and easy. Used a jar of Portobello mushroom spaghetti sauce. The sauce was a bit thick so just added a bit more water to the Instant Pot. Turned out perfect. We loved it!

  42. Avatar photo
    Gloria Carter

    I am using Barilla Protein Plus Spaghetti noodles,,,,the directions indicate that it should be cooked 10 minutes, so my question is will it be done to al dente in 5 minutes on HP.

  43. Loved the flavor! But my pasta was gummy and over cooked. . I used regular  thin spaghetti. Anyone else use this and have better luck? Wondering how to adjust my cook time down to get it right. 

  44. I have made this in the instapot and stove top and found that two cups of water is just too much for my taste.  Ended up soupy and kind of watered down.  Last time on the stove top I used grand beef and subbed one cup of beef broth for the water, and it was amazing! Perfect consistency and the flavor was excellent!

  45. Could I use a different shape pasta? I’ll obviusly adjust the time accordingly but would the liquid ratio change?? 

  46. Avatar photo
    Laura Solá Carrillo

    Just made it tonight…. GREAT!!!
    One quick question, are leftover freezer friendly? Never freeze pasta before.
    Thanks a lot

  47. Any idea on how to alter for Zoodles??? We LOOOOOVE this recipe for regular spaghetti! But have some Zoodles to use up!

  48. I do not have a food scale. The recipe calls for 8 oz of spaghetti. So if my box I bought is 16oz I should just use half? Wasn’t sure if the measurements were different. Thank you!

  49. I don’t have a food scale. When buying a box of spaghetti is the oz measuring on the box accurate to use? So if I buy a 16 oz box, I’ll use half? Thanks!

  50. This recipe did not work for me. To begin with the instapot directions say not to cover with sautee setting. I followed the recipe and the instapot turned off bc of it’s own controls (and knows not to cover while in sautee). I then had a glass lid to cover and there was way too much liquid.

    1. You would need to turn off sauté when your meat is done and then cover and turn the pot to manual pressure.

  51. Avatar photo
    Sue ohearn brennan

    I have a pasta make and like to use fresh pasta. Can I use fresh spaghetti in this recipe. If so, do i have to adjust the time?

  52. I made it exactly as written – I even ordered the Delallo pasta and sauce. It was tasty, although the consistency wasn’t quite what I’d hoped – pasta was a little softer than al dente and sauce was a little watery. But we still enjoyed it. And it was so quick and easy to make! My husband said it’s definitely worth making again. Maybe I’ll try with a bit less water next time.

  53. Hey there!

    I have an earlier model of the instant pot, and I was just curious as to whether or not that’ll affect cooking time etc.? I’ve tried the recipe twice and have acquired different results every time (first time I needed to add a few minutes, the second time the bottom of the pot got burnt a little). Regardless, the taste of the spaghetti was still amazing, I just wanted to see if there’s a method that doesn’t involve me checking on the pot after every few minutes. I love the simplicity of all the recipes too, keep up all the great recipes! 🙂

    Thanks!

  54. This turned out perfectly! Followed directions exactly because this was only my second time using my IP (except I used whole wheat penne). Definitely keeping this in the weekly dinner rotation! So so good!!! Thank you, Gina!

  55. This was my first IP recipe and man oh man am I hooked!  I ended up having to cook the fish under high pressure for 15 minutes instead of nine, but everything turned out yummy! Looking forward to trying new recipes, thanks for getting me started!

  56. This is my second time making this and I am OBSESSED!! I used San Marzano tomato basil pasta sauce and it is awesome. So quick and taste like you spent hours letting the sauce simmer. Great for busy week nights!

  57. Simple, quick, and DELICIOUS! I’ve never liked whole wheat pasta, but followed recipe exactly and taste/texture is perfect.  From now on this is how I will be making spaghetti, thanks Gina!

  58. I just today got my first pressure cooker ( 6 qt.) .it didn’t come with a recipe book. It has a setting for yogurt Do you have a recipe for yogurt and also can I bake a cake or other desserts in this cooker? 
    I am anxious to try some of your recipes out.  Thank you! 

  59. Even though the spaghetti was broke into small pieces, and covered in sauce and water, the noodles stuck right there and did not cook on the allotted time. I had to add an additional 6 minutes to the pressure cooking time. Overall, I thought the recipe was just Ok. I think I’ll stick to conventional cooking when it comes to spaghetti.

  60. This was my first meal with the instant pot and I’m hooked! I used what we had on hand (campanelle pasta instead of spaghetti) and used some boxed diced tomatoes and a ton of seasoning instead of jarred sauce. I also added a splash of whole milk at the end to make it a bit creamy. SO GOOD and SO EASY. Only difference is next time I might decrease the time a bit, the pasta was a bit too cooked for my taste (and I like it soft) even with the quick release. Can’t wait to try more recipes!

  61. I love so many of your recipes and I thought this recipe was ok, but a bit bland as written compared to my normal sauce. I just haven’t yet been able to find an instant pot tomato sauce that compares to my bake in a Dutch oven for hours sauce method. But it was super easy for a weeknight pasta and that has its place.
    I have made a lot of pasta dishes in the IP at this point and I will say that I get the most consistent results with the pasta not mush or hard and no issues with foaming or burning when I cook it on low pressure for half the time indicated on the box. So if the box says cook for 12 mins, I cook it on low pressure for 6. I think it was something I got from the Hip Pressure Cooking site. Works every time. For whole wheat pasta my brand of choice is Jovial. The taste is good and I find it doesn’t upset my belly like some of the others can.

  62. Avatar photo
    Joy Zwagerman

    I just got the instapot. I am trying tbis recioe, but have 16 oz of pasta. Do I double the other ingredients too, or is it okay to have more pasta?

    1. What size instantpot do you have? If it is the 6 quart one, I don’t think you want to try a whole box of pasta…or at least be very careful if you do. Overfilling a pressure cooker with grains or pasta is not a good idea. If you have a larger size pot, you should be ok. But I would double the whole recipe or you won’t have enough sauce for the pasta.

  63. I was confused by cooking instruction #3,  “. . . making sure the liquid covers everything without stirring”.  That didn’t make sense to me, but still, I refrained from stirring. My pasta came out in solid clumps on top of the burned sauce.  

  64. Made this for dinner tonight and it was SO GOOD! My husband who is really picky about whole wheat noodles didn’t even notice these were whole wheat! It was THAT good! The only problem I ran into was that my noodles weren’t done at 9 minutes, so I put my pot on saute and cooked it for another minute with the lid on. Came out perfect! Thanks for a keeper recipe!

  65. Made this tonight – my first attempt at pasta in the Instant Pot. I used a different sauce, as that’s what I had on hand, and threw in a bunch of fresh spinach after the pressure cooking. It turned out perfectly! 

  66. Did this stove top using low sodium Ragu and chicken italian sausage. Delicious and what a brilliant idea to “one pot” it. So creamy. An idea-Pillsbury does this too but instead of water uses chicken broth-might be worth trying.

  67. Hi Gina! You mentioned to eat it right away for al dente, otherwise the pasta continue to absorb the sauce. I was thinking about making a pot of this ahead of time for lunches for the week. Any suggestions? (I’ll be cooking it on the stove, not the IP). 

    1. It really depends on how you like your pasta. I personally like it al dente, so I eat it the same day (right after) I cook it.

  68. Worked well, I would tweak the recipe next time with my own sauce. Spaghettini noodles stuck together a little. Overall a success. I increased the amount of noodles and beef, I also added stewed tomatoes. Didn’t increase the time and it still worked out. 

  69. Gina, I love all your recipes. will this work with rotini noodle (whole wheat) instead of spaghetti? Thank you!

    1. Avatar photo
      Shelly Sigale

      I’m wondering if this cam be made with zucchini spaghetti & approximately how long it would take 

  70. I got my IP for Christmas and after about a month of intimidation, I finally jumped in with this recipe. Since then I’ve made this about once a week. It’s great freshly made and as leftovers. I halve the recipe for my 3-at duo mini and it works perfectly. Delallo sauce is not available here so I find a comparable quality sauce. Yes, it costs more than Ragu or Prego, but it’s worth it since the sauce IS the flavoring. It basically infuses the pasta. Also, season your meat when you sauté- don’t be afraid of salt or at least some pepper, garlic or onion powder.

  71. I bought an 8 qt IP.  I used Dellalo pasta and sauce as stated.  The only difference is that I wanted 16 Oz. Of pasta, so I doubled everything except the turkey.  While coming up to temp, the word “burn” came up.  Eventually, it came to temp and counted down.  When it was done, some of the pasta was burnt on the bottom of the pot.  Also, there was still a lot of liquid in the pot.  The picture made it seem like the pasta should have absorbed most of the liquid.

    1. I have not made this double, I am not sure if that is the issue? My pasta came out perfect and all the water absorbed perfectly.

  72. Really great recipe! It was my very first time making spaghetti on my own and I definitely plan to make more of it now! This was a delirious recipe and VERY EASY and beginner friendly! I used a instant-pot for the first time and it all came out great. I was able to meal-prep my lunches for the entire week with this recipe!

    Thank you Gina!

  73. I use different shaped pasta, like penne or bow ties.  It doesn’t clump as much. Easier to stir so it doesn’t clump as easily as the long thin strands.  I started out cooking this in my Ninja cooker and add italian seasoning, red pepper flakes.  I throw in whatever veggies I have- spinach is great to stir in at the end and let it wilt.  The IP makes it even quicker!  Love the pasta cooked with the sauce instead of just boiled.  Thanks for the recipe!

  74. Hi Gina,
    When making this recipe with gluten free pasta, should I cook it for less time. GF pasta tends to get mushy if overcooked and I’m wondering if I should shorten the cook time by a couple of minutes? Thank you and I can’t wait to try this!

  75. When you say cook for 9 minutes after adding the pasta, is that 9 minutes once it’s preheated? 9 minutes passed with ON still displayed, never counting down. 

    #ThirdIPMealEver #StillANewbie

    1. Allison, If it still said, “on” then the IP wasn’t pressurized. It will beep when it hits pressure, then the timer will change from “on” to your 9 minute countdown. 🙂

  76. Just made this tonight, on the stovetop because I don’t have an instant pot. Subbed in Rao’s sauce because that’s what was in the pantry. Everything else was the same. Super easy and family approved. 

  77. Best spaghetti ever!!! I have never really liked spaghetti- just because it was so BLAH. I would eat it but would never choose to cook it myself……UNTIL this recipe in my instant pot! So much flavor! I love that the noodles are cooked into the sauce so they actually taste like something. We make this almost weekly at our house now. Everyone loves it! Sometimes the noodles clump together but are still cooked through. I have found that there is not a whole lot you can do, just spread the noodles out the best you can and after cooking them “rake” the clumps of noodles from end to end and they break apart pretty well. 

  78. This is amazing. I have made it with whole wheat pasta and regular pasta and both times it’s been fantastic. It’s actually the only way my son will eat whole wheat pasta!

  79. ” breaking up about 3 minutes” Excuse me for being a little slow, have only used my IP twice so far. What does it mean, breaking up about 3 minutes?

  80. We really enjoyed this! Anyone have a suggestion for reheating the leftovers? I don’t like to microwave anything with meat in it (it’s a taste thing for me), but I don’t want to overcook the pasta either.

  81. Love this recipe!! Only 1 question: do you put it on “manual” after saute? That’s what I did because the recipe didn’t specify. Seems to have turned out ok. Thanks!

  82. I have a Instant Pot LUX60 V3 6 Qt 6-in-1 and am an instant pot newbie.
    After I sauted it. I put the instant pot on manual high and cooked for 9 mins. After releasing the steam manually, the pasta was not cooked thru. Help please! thank you!

    1. I just notice your comment. I did put mine on manual and it seemed ok. Not sure what happened in your pot. I only posted my comment to see if what I did was correct.

      1. Thanks Linn. Me either. Other pasta recipes on other sites say to put manual low. Maybe I’ll try that next time.

    2. Had the same issue. Thinking it took 9 minutes just to preheat. I was nervous 9 minutes was up but my pasta was still pretty hard. 

      1. You press 9 minutes on the pressure cooker. Sounds like the valve was not in the right position.

  83. Made this a couple of weeks ago- delish! Wondering if it will work if I halve the recipe, it makes a lot for two people :)Thanks!

  84. Avatar photo
    Leanne Swanson

    Just tried making this in my brand new instapot and when I added the pasta and it started cooking the insta pot kept beeping 5 times and saying ‘burn’. ????. I had to take it and finish it on the stove. 

    1. Sounds like you kept the machine on Saute, perhaps. I would try emptying the pot and cleaning the bottom of it and then trying again.
      Does your users manual say anything about “burn.”? If not, how about looking at instant pot online and then contacting them?

  85. This was awful! Half my noodles didn’t cook and instead all stuck together, and it was as bland as dry dread. Will definitely not be making this again. Even my garbage can kid wouldn’t eat it.

  86. Avatar photo
    Deanna Heikoop

    I’m going to make this tomorrow! I want to double the recipe. if I double the sauce, should I still double the water? 4 cups of water seems like too much. Any suggestions?

  87. I’m a HUGE Skinnytaste fan, but I just opened my Instant appt and it looks like red water with noodles.  Followed recipe exactly.  I have it baking in oven to try and thicken it up. 

  88. If you make this on the stove first would you cook the pasta separate? I don’t know how it would go with water in the sauce.
    Thanks

  89. Ive done this once  with ground beef and once with ground sausage that I had on hand. It was my first attempt with the instant pot and needless to say I don’t cook it any other way anymore. My husband raves about this for days after and asks for it at least once a week!

  90. I just got my instant pot and would like to try this recipe! Does anyone know if I can cook the ground turkey directly from frozen, or is it necessary that I thaw it first? (I understand this would add to the cook time)
    Thanks!

  91. Simply excellent, Gina! Been a fan for years…never have you steered us wrong. Here’s to more tasty recipes and years of success to come!

  92. I used brown rice pasta and it was a fail! Pasta all stuck together… so I boiled new pasta over the stove.  ???? Sauce was delicious though!  Is it because I used brown rice pasta?

  93. I used brown rice pasta and it was a fail! Pasta all stuck together… so I boiled new pasta over the stove.  ???? Sauce was delicious though!  Is it because I used brown rice pasta?

  94. The flavor of the meat sauce was nice, but everyone in my family said this is tomato soup with meat and noodles. It was not as thick as Gina’s picture. We do not like loose watery sauce. That is what this recipe makes. Sorry, but I won’t be making this recipe again.

    1. I found that you really only need enough water just to cover the spaghetti. For me, that’s less than the recipe calls for. I halve the recipe for my IP mini  pand use about 3/4 cup rather than a whole cup. I also use just a little more sauce. Of course, with the IP the amount of liquid is always crucial and it’s a delicate balance.

  95. Avatar photo
    Jenise-The Peaceful Agent

    Can you use brown rice pasta? It’s all I have in the pantry. I’m afraid it will come out mushy. Maybe it needs a different amount of water and time? Any idea??

  96. Avatar photo
    Edye Wagstaff

    Made this last night. I usually do NOT like whole wheat pasta – it’s a texture thing. HOWEVER, this was AWESOME! It was so easy and so very delicious!

  97. This was good but it was a bit too much water in the instant pot. I also used diced red bell pepper and mushrooms in mine. Fantastic results other than being a little watery – maybe I did something wrong.

    1. I figured out what I did wrong!! This was my first time using the instant pot so I thought the lid had to be on it in sauté mode…WRONG! I reduced it last night in a pan and it was perfect! Next time will be PERFECTION!

  98. Seriously phenomenal! I did one lb of lean ground beef, sliced baby bella mushrooms, the whole box of pasta (krogers simple truth), 2 jars of my favorite all natural jarred sauce, and 2 cups of water. Could not have turned out any better!  My husband said it was the best “homemade” spaghetti he’d ever had. #spaghettiwin

  99. Don’t know what I did wrong but the insta pot kicked off with a burn error before ever reaching pressure
    Upon opening the spaghetti was stuck to bottom of pan   Is this a common problem when trying to use pasta?  I used regular pasta not whole wheat. 

    1. I added a bit of the sauce to the turkey/onion/garlic mixture before putting the pasta on top. I also sauteed some bellpepper with the onions and garlic so that likely gave the bottom “layer” some additional moisture. My turkey was really lean so concerned about the burn error also

      1. I got the burn error as well. I also used regular pasta… i wonder if that’s what caused it?

  100. Is it 9 min once you hit start or do you wait to count after it gets up to pressure and it’s own timer starts?

  101. My son has a wheat allergy, so when we do pasta, I use the brown rice style noodles.
    Would rice pasta cook the same time as the wheat based version?

    1. Traci I’ve found brown rice pasta needs about 2 minutes less cooking time than wheat pasta.
      Remember: you can always cook it more, but you can’t UNcook it lol.

    1. Avatar photo
      Michelle Musgrave

      I put it the recipe builder and substituted Braille protein plus spaghetti and it calculated 7 points per serving.  

      1. I just put this in the recipe builder with 99% fat free ground turkey and Trader Giotto’s Tomato Basil Marinara Sauce and got 4 points.

  102. For all the people asking about using regular spaghetti instead of wheat spaghetti, here was my experience! I used the Kroger brand reduced calorie thin spaghetti, which has a cook time of 9-11 minutes for al dente. I followed the recipe but on step 4 I cooked it on manual, high pressure for 5 minutes instead of 9. The texture was perfectly fine! However, the sauce was a bit soupy, which I personally didn’t mind. The taste was pretty good although slightly reminded me of spaghetti O’s and using the reduced cal pasta brought down the calories per serving a bit. This was good and I will definitely make it again and maybe try beef (the turkey was pretty good but my bf doesn’t like it, so next time will try extra lean ground beef instead so he can have some too).

  103. Avatar photo
    Lisa Johnson

    This came out great!! My husband said it was the best meat sauce with spaghetti he has ever had. The texture was perfect!!! Awesome thanks!!!

  104. Hi Gina, this is my first time using an instant pot, cooking and also making one of your recipes. I’m not sure why but the pressure cooker beeped before the 9 mins and when I released the pasta was uncooked and also stuck together. I wonder what went wrong. Over all, I did taste it and it’s delicious. I saved a couple more of your recipes to try as well. I’m living on my own and trying to practice cooking. I am grateful to have came across SkinnyTaste because your recipes are simple and not time consuming at all. It’s perfect for the healthy me I’m trying to become. Anyways, thank you for reading!
    With love,
    Lisney

    1. Sounds like the IP had just reached pressure. It takes a few minutes for the pressure to build but once it reaches, it beeps and that’s when the cook time begins and starts counting down. Once cook time is done it’ll beep again and will start slowly releasing pressure, this is the natural pressure release.For this recipe it calls for a quick release so, with a towel over the valve, turn the valve all the way to release quickly. Once the metal pin drops, you’re done! Good luck, Lisney! I’m trying this recipe tonight; can’t wait.

    1. Yes I used regular pasta (krogers simple truth) and it was AMAZING! The husband said it was the best “homemade” spaghetti he’d ever had! 

  105. I use this recipe minus about 1/4-1/2 cup water. I also dont add onion but do add onion powder to the meat. We use venison instead of Turkey which is super lean as well. I have foudn that Prego farmers market tomato and basil sauce works great for this to.

    1. Yes. Brown in saute mode in the instant pot then drain the meat fat and stop the IP. Then proceed with instructions.

  106. Best spaghetti ever! Taste just like you get at a restaurant. This is a keeper…I will make over and over for my family. Just got my instant pot and this is the second recipe I have made. I love this gadget! Thanks for all the wonderful recipes. 

  107. I made this last night for dinner. I used ground beef after I discovered I had used up all of my ground turkey. I also added one jar of mushrooms. I have a Power Pressure Cooker, so after browning the meat, adding the onions and garlic, the sauce and spaghetti, I set the timer for 15 minutes.

    The meal turned out fantastic! The spaghetti was fully cooked and infused with flavor and not the least bit soggy or mushy. My husband raved about it.

    This is my second time using an instant pot type cooker, and the second time making one of your recipes. which also turned out fantastic.

    I added notes to my printed recipe regarding the cooking time so I will remember for next time. I will definitely make this again.

    1. Kathy- I’m new to all this pressure cooking, but I have both a 6qt instant pot and a now an 8 at power pressure cooker xl. It seems that the power pressure cooker only does low pressure? Do you find this to be true and is that why you increased the cook time to 15 min? Thanks for any advice.

  108. New to the IP does the valve stay closed and then quick release mean open the valve to release the steam?

  109. This recipe was awesome!! It was my first instapot recipe made. I added too much water because 2 cups didn’t cover all the way (I was super nervous) and it was a little soupy but I just let it cook for a few minutes longer and it was perfect! I now need more healthy instapot recipes 🙂

  110. Hi Gina! I love all your recipes. I do not have an instant pot but my mother-in-law just bought me an 8 Quart Pressure Cooker for xmas. I know there’s a difference between the two but never worked with either of them. I do not have a “Saute” or “Brown” button on my pressure cooker, but am I still able to saute the turkey in the Pressure Cooker before I put the lid on? I am trying to see if this will work out for all of your “instant pot” recipes, as I feel bad asking to exchange the gift she got me. Thanks!

    1. I have a different brand of pressure cooker and just use any button to get it heating, then saute things in there.

    2. Don’t exchange it, a pressure cooker and an Instant Pot are the same thing, just different buttons that anyone can figure out which button to use. It’s pretty simple. I have a $39.00 pressure cooker that I bought at Aldi I love it. Again different buttons but easy to transcribe.

  111. I’m nervous to cook pasta in my instant pot because the first time I did, it spit and foamed out of the valve when I did a quick release. Any tips? 

      1. I’m looking back over your posts with dishes I would like to try. I came across this tip and I’m smacking my head because… duh? why didn’t I ever try this? Instead, I’ve been playing beat the Instant Pot when I’ve accidentally left the valve the wrong way when I make rice. My poor kitchen! Cheers!

  112. Avatar photo
    Karen McClellan

    I made this tonight as the recipe stated, but as I’m in England, I used a different brand of sauce. I loved the ease of preparation,, and from this recipe I now have the bravery to try pasta with sauce in my Instant pot.  It could have been the sauce I used, but we didn’t like the flavour. We are used to putting beef stock in our spaghetti, so without it we felt it needed more depth of flavour. We will try again with a different sauce. We love this site, and thank you for all the yummy ideas! 

    1. Avatar photo
      Susan Rubright

      Joe, You changed the pasta, that is the problem. Probably only needed to cook 7-8 minutes, with a quick release.

      1. But he used whole wheat pasta which is what the recipe called for.  He didn’t use anything different. Using whole wheat pasta too. Hoping it’s not mush!

  113. I have made this at least once a week since getting an instant pot. So amazingly easy and quick, I will never cook spaghetti the normal way again. The cook time was perfect and I even used the cheaper jarred sauce when it was all I had on hand and added fresh basil and spices and it turned out great. 

    1. I read that if you don’t change the size of items you don’t change the time. New to Instant Pot but have done a lot of reading. Think this is correct..

    2. I doubled and I needed to add more time. It was still quite watery and the pasta not done @9 minutes. 

  114. Made this tonight and it was delicious! Used a jar of Rao’s and spaghetti I had on hand instead. This might just make me a fan of the IP! Only my 4th time using it. This recipe is a keeper! Thanks!

  115. I halved the time on my pasta. Regular cook time was 11 so I did 6. It was crunchy.  I will do 9 next time. I did not use the same pasta as in the recipe. 

  116.  Hi Gina, I’d like to try this with gnocchi and sauce. No meat. Would you do anything different on timing? 

  117. Avatar photo
    Melissa Giangrosso

    I’m wondering if the duo version of the instant pot is totally needed since most recipes call for high pressure? Is there a use for the low pressure? Trying to decide between the duo & lux

  118. I LOVE this recipe. It’s so easy and delicious.
    I found that cooking time should be set same as time on package to boil for whole wheat spaghetti.

    I have also used Barilla and Bertoli jar of marinara. I did not use salt and it wasn’t missed.
    Thank you Thank you Thank you for this wonderful recipe.

  119. I was wondering if anyone has tried this with Dreamfields pasta and if you adjusted the cooking time (for the IP). Also, how long if your ground turkey is frozen?

    1. Avatar photo
      christi in ma

      made this last night with a pound of Barilla protein plus rotini and a 24 oz jar of Rao’s
      did not double the water
      cooked for 9 minutes
      next time I’d cook for 7 minutes because the pasta was very soft
      it took over 2 minutes for the qpr to finish so cutting the cooking time will probably make it perfect

  120. I made this tonight and substituted regular spaghetti noodles, Prego Sauce and lean hamburger and followed the rest of the recipe exactly. When browning the hamburger or turkey always make sure you have no burnt or browned marks on the bottom of the instant pot pan.. I have read that many people have problems with scorching when your bottom of your pan has food stuck to it or a burned spot from saute. Use a bit of olive oil when you saute your meat and it should solve the problem.

    Thanks for the recipe Gina, this was a hit and so easy for a busy night.

  121. LOVE this recipe. I’ve also used lean ground beef with great results. My grandmother is 90 and a SUPER picky eater, but she thinks this is one of the best recipes I’ve made for dinner. Of course, it’s also the least complicated!

    The Delallo sauces aren’t available by me, so I used Rao’s once and Ragu the second time. Both were superb. BUT I managed to find a bottle at the Lot Less near my office in NYC (sort of a Big Lots-like store). They only had marinara, but I’ll give it a shot. (Maybe I’ll get lucky next time and find Tomato Basil!)

  122. This was AMAZING!! I am a long time follower of your recipes and am constantly impressed! This recipe makes me want to invite friends over, feed them, following by shocking them with healthy card. This will be on a regular rotation in my home, thank you, again!

  123. I just made this tonight using your homemade Pomodoro sauce that I had frozen. It was delicious and so easy to make! I love that you’re adding more instant pot recipes.

  124. This is great! I thought at first that it was going to be too liquidy b/c when I opened the instant pot there was water on top still. But the noodles absorb it all and it is AMAZING! Thank you Gina! Definitely going to be making this one A LOT this hockey season!

  125. Avatar photo
    Katie Gauthier

    Yummy!  Just made this and it was so easy- I bought the Dellano online and worth it.  Did it stove top and came out perfect!

  126. This was fast easy and delicious!! I’m a new IP user.  I followed  the exact (with lean ground beef and GF pasta) recipe came out perfectly!! My family LOVED it. 

  127. This recipe saved us from going out to eat for dinner a couple of weeks ago. The ingredients are simple but the dish was yummy. Thank you for your creativity Gina! Our family is enjoying your recipes.

  128. Looking forward to trying this tonight! Wanted to pass on that Target’s Market Pantry brand makes what they call “pot-sized” spaghetti noodles which are half the length of regular spaghetti and they come in white or wheat. https://www.target.com/p/pot-sized-spaghetti-pasta-16oz-market-pantry-153/-/A-15145155

  129. Excited to make this tonight! Two questions:
    1) Could I double the dry pasta to one pound? If so, do I double other ingredients?
    2) Could I add mushrooms? If so, would I do that with the meat?
    Thank you!

  130. Avatar photo
    Michelle Holland

    For the regular pot version, I’m assuming you saute the turkey, salt, onion and garlic and then add the rest of the ingredients and cook for 17 min? Or, do you throw everything in at once and cook for 17 min?

  131. Oh my goodness! I made this last night and it is the BEST spaghetti I’ve ever made! I did use lean hamburger and a mix of 2 leftover pasta sauces with some fresh basil. It was so quick to make and the house smelled like an Italian villa! Thank you so very much for sharing this recipe!

  132. Would it be okay to use sweet Italian chicken or turkey sausage instead? Thank you! I may try it with that tonight and report back 🙂

  133. Avatar photo
    Laura Pendleton

    Made this last night.  Amazing!!  My husband laughed at me cooking spaghetti in my Instant Pot but faught me over the leftovers for lunch.  

  134. This was my first ever meal in my new Instant Pot! Opened the box, did the water test, and jumped into this recipe all in one evening even though I was a bit intimidated. I’ve never used a pressure cooker before –
    hey, I’m only 26! Turned out great and the picky boyfriend approved. Can’t wait to try your other IP recipes. Your website is the reason I bought mine 🙂

  135. Made this tonight with Barilla whole wheat spaghetti and Bertolli Tomato & Basil sauce, couldn’t find the brand used in the recipe. I upped my garlic to 7 cloves and added 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes. Once out of the Instant Pot grated some Parm and fresh basil. Really like how this comes together in the Instant Pot. The balance of meat to sauce was perfect. Next time I plan on making my own Pomodoro sauce.

  136. I made this for my family’s dinner tonight, and it was a hit!! Even my father (who typically refuses to eat beef replacers) went back for seconds. I was foolish to think there would be an leftovers to bring to lunch tomorrow. I couldn’t find Delallo brand at my supermarket, so I used Bertolli’s Tomato Basil jarred sauce. Next time I’ll try making it with homemade marinara. I also prepared this on stovetop in my Dutch oven. I will definitely be making this again in the near future!! 

  137. Avatar photo
    Rosemary Calhoun

    I made this delicious spaghetti tonight going right by your recipe and it is superb.  It reminds me of the spaghetti that we were served when I was in high school many years ago – each strand of spaghetti incorporated into the sauce.  Thank you for sharing this delightful recipe. It is super easy, quick, and I will definitely make again.

  138. So easy and so good! With so few ingredients, I was skeptical. Everyone in my family loved it!

    I used regular spaghetti and ended up having to cook everything for closer to 14 minutes. Cooked for 9 at first, but then did an additional 5 min because pasta wasn’t fully cooked.

  139. I have to say I was skeptical of this recipe but it was one of the best things I’ve made in my instantpot. So easy and quick also! Definitely would make it again.

  140. Hi Gina! Thanks for posting the stovetop version of this, can’t wait to give it a try. Your instructions say to throw all ingredients in the pot on the stove covered for 17 minutes, does that include the spaghetti? Just wondering if that would be too much time for the spaghetti to cook or not – thanks in advance! Always enjoy your recipes, I make them every week!

  141.  I made whole wheat spaghetti in the IP before and it tasted very grainy and gummy, so I was worried this recipe wouldn’t turn out well.  So glad I was wrong!  It was delicious!  The brand of pasta I used called for a cooking time between 6-8 min so I cooked it for 8 and it was tender.  Next time I’ll cook it for about 6 minutes so it heats up well the next day. Thanks for another great recipe, Gina!

  142. Hi,

    First, I want to say that I love your recipes, blog and cookbook. I’m a huge fan!

    I tried to make this today with my own sauce and it didn’t work out. I kept getting an alarm that it was too hot and I couldn’t get any pressure to build at all. I finally took it out and put it in a regular pot and the bottom of my Instant Pot pan was burnt black. 

    Any suggestions on where I went wrong?  I’ve never had a failed recipe of yours or the Instant Pot yet, so I think it must have been user error. Any ideas?

    Thanks!

  143. Avatar photo
    Cosgrove Frances Contreras

    Would like to see a bolognese version of this!  Love that it’s just one pot and you don’t need a colander!

  144. Oh my goodness. I made this tonight and it was excellent!  I hadn’t had whole wheat pasta in years, didn’t like it. I cannot believe how delicious this pasta was!  I am absolutely hooked on this brand now, and this dish.   Received two enthusiastic thumbs up from my pasta loving hubby!

  145. I am relatively new to the Instant Pot, but decided to give this a try. It was great! Very easy and very tasty. My husband couldn’t even tell there were whole wheat noodles in it! Thanks for another great recipe!

  146. Just made this with Jovial Gluten Free Spaghetti – had to turn it back on for another 2 minutes, so I think 11 total would work just fine.

  147. Which Instant Pot program setting did you use for the pressure cooker?  Soup? Meat/stew? Chili? Poultry? Etc.  It is my first time using the pressure cooker setting and am excited to make this recipe!  I just hope I don’t blow up my house.  ?

  148. This was a quick and easy dinner, with enough leftovers for lunch, and was a big hit with both my guys.  I subbed ground beef, and cooked the whole wheat thin spaghetti in my Instant Pot for 7 minutes – perfect!  Next time I’ll use a better sauce – maybe something with a little heat to it.

  149. Made this for dinner tonight and the family devoured it! I have two little ones, ages 2 and 4, and they both loved it. Thanks for the easy, delicious meal for a working mama!

  150. Avatar photo
    Jessica andrews

    I made this spaghetti! It was great! However mine scalded/burned in the bottom of the pot. I did exactly what your recipe called for. It was my very first time using my instant pot. What could cause this?

  151. My toddler, who usually picks at his dinner, is currently on his 3rd helping of this spaghetti! I even nearly ruined it by not noticing that the rubber seal was not in the instant pot lid when I started cooking. After it tried to come to pressure for about 10-12 minutes and I figured out the issue, I put it on high pressure for 2 minutes and it came out just fine. So this is nearly foolproof! 

    I couldn’t get Delallo from Amazon Fresh so instead used Rao’s sauce, which was excellent and similar in ingredients to Delallo. Also used Bionature whole wheat spaghetti and couldn’t tell it wasn’t regular noodles. I don’t know if that’s because the cooking method makes the noodles soak up sauce or if it’s the noodles themselves. Also, I used ground Italian chicken sausage because I prefer sausage to ground beef in my spaghetti. If I hadn’t had the mishap with the Instant Pot this would have been a quick and easy family pleaser! I’ll definitely try this again! I have a feeling you can really experiment with the concept, too.

  152. We just made this tonight and it was absolutely delicious.  This will remain on our Weight Watchers rotation!!! And the it works so well in the Instant Pot.  Thanks so much, Gina!!! Michael and Michael

  153. My husband will only eat thick sauce. Does adding water so that the pasta will cook make the sauce a bit on the thin side? If so what is the work around to make this dish but with thick sauce? lol

    1. The noodles absorbed the water and my sauce came out thick, even after I kind of screwed up the cooking in the instant pot.

  154. If I’m cooking on the stove top do I need to brown the turkey first or just all all ingredients to the pot and cook as is? This sound yummy and I would love to fix it tonight.  

  155. I’m going to try adding mushrooms – I’m weird and love them in my pasta sauce – and I’m hoping I don’t mess up the water balance!

  156. I usually freeze leftover sauce, however, since spaghetti is included in the pot does that mean I should NOT freeze leftovers?

    Sounds easy and delicious, thanks

  157. Made this tonight with Rao’s Tomato Basil sauce (my Publix didn’t have Dellalo)…DIVINE! Hubby and I gobbled up 2 servings each. My first meal in the Instant Pot was a success! Thanks for all your amazing recipes!!

  158. I have this in the IP right now, can’t wait for it to finish!  Ok, all finished it kind of looked soupy at first until I gave it a stir, then wow, I can’t wait  to taste this, it’s so easy!  

    Thank you ????

  159. Avatar photo
    Cindy Canestrari

    Hello~Just made this tonight, it was so delicious!!  I don’t have an Instant Pot so I used my big  Le Creuset pan and everything came out perfect.  I will never use beef again for a pasta sauce, the turkey is so good!

  160. You mention that the sauce should cover everything in the pressure cooker – does that include the pasta? If so, does that mean we need to break the pasta in half? I won’t know for sure until I try it, but I’m assuming my noodles are going to be sticking up out of that sauce until they start cooking down. I may be overthinking this 🙂

  161. I have both your cookbooks. Love them!!!!!
    Interested in buying an Instapot
    but concerned
    about recipes. Do you have more instapot recipes. I am doing weight watchers and want to stay
    on point.
    Thanks for any advice you might give. Are you doing a book with instapot healthy recipes?

  162. Avatar photo
    Melissa Pogue

    hi!  love your recipes 🙂  i’m new to the instant pot though… would this (and your other IP recipes) fit the 3 quart – or do i really need to buy the 6 quart?   we’re a family of 4 that don’t eat large amounts, so thinking of saving $ this way.  thanks for your input!  mel 🙂

  163. My husband I made this the other night when we needed a last-minute dinner. It came together super quickly with minimal prep and was delicious! Would absolutely make this one again!

  164. Gina, you’re great! I have both your cookbooks, and only consider myself a cook because of you. Would you please release an instant pot cook book, I’d totally buy it! And, after you realease it, please come to NYCto sign my book! My whole meal prep exsistence relies on Fast and Slow! Thanks!!!

  165. I’m still trying to figure my instant pot out. When you switch from sauté mode to manual for 8 minutes, is that including the preheat cycle? My preheat cycle was a full 10 minutes before it started counting down from the 8 minutes. I could just be dumb, lol. 

  166. Gina, I made this for dinner tonight. The hubby had a HUGE serving–probably equal to two and a half! This is definitely a keeper. Thanks for posting this. I love IP recipes. xoxo

  167. This recipe came out amazing! So easy and flavorful.  It was my first time using delallo brand whole wheat pasta and it is the best brand I have ever tried.  I couldnt find the delallo pomodoro but I found the delallo marinara and added fresh basil from my garden.  We really enjoyed it!  Thanks again!

  168. Gina – have you had any experience with gluten free pasta in the instant pot? I would love to try the many IP recipes I’ve found with pasta included but afraid of the results with GF pasta.

    1. I’ve done gluten free corn pasta in the IP for mac n cheese and stroganoff and am usually safe with half the time the package says for the stove top. If it says 6-8 min, I do 3 min. If it says 8-10 min, I do 4 min. Figure if it’s not enough I can always cook it a litte longer but mushy pasta is hard to save. I always make sure to use cooked meat, though. Hth!

  169. Do you drain the fat from the turkey? Definitely want to try this! Got an Instant Pot recently and have only steamed veggies in it so far! Thanks for this!

      1. I just finished making and doubles the meat, water and noodles… I had a 28oz jar of sauce I used… it was perfect and so good!

  170. Do I have to increase the water if I increase the amount of pasta to a pound instead of 8 ounces -I have hungry teenagers to feed!

  171. I have never used a pressure cooker. My mother bought one for herself and swears by it.

    Interesting that spaghetti can be done in it. I imagine the noodles soak up quite a bit of the sauce since they aren’t getting boiled in a big pot of water first. Sounds good, especially with some homemade sauce (I’m still not sold on the jar sauce, but might give your recommendation a shot).

    Definitely sounds like its worth a try. If it saves me some time during the week, even better.

  172. Hi, I am wondering if you know whether you can make this with Glutenn-Free pasta in the instant pot?

  173. Avatar photo
    Rebecca Bravard

    Do you have stove top and/or slow cooker directions for this recipe? I don’t have an Instant Pot.

  174. The ingredient list says turkey, but the instructions call for beef. Wondering which is reflected in the nutritional info.

  175. My pasta is very similar – but at the end of cooking I add a bag (washed) of broccoli slaw. I don’t know why but it tastes even more amazing – and the slaw adds an interesting textural bite.

  176. Any idea what the time would be for white penne pasta? Also how do the points change for beef? I love your recipes! You inspired me and I just got my instant pot at Kohl’s using my 30% off coupon. Can’t wait to use it. Thx.

  177. Gina, they’ve got the sauce at Wegmans…do you not have a Wegmans?? You need Wegmans in your life!!

    1. Avatar photo
      Joyce E Lange

      Joycie:  Laura is right you do need a Weggies in your life. We cross the board at NF to get some of our groceries. Love Weggies. 

    2. Thanks for posting that the sauce is at Wegmans. I love that store! We actually really like their own brand of tomato basil sauce.

  178. Avatar photo
    Linda Copeland

    Made this last night and it was delicious!  Was super easy and fast. Daughter is looking forward to leftovers in her lunch thermos today. 

  179. Unfortunately, the sauce you mention has 370 mg sodium per serving. Not terribly high unless you’re watching your intake. I think i’ll continue to make my own with salt free tomatoes.

    1. I’d like to leave you a recommendation. I love to use The Silver Palate pasta sauces. They have a low sodium version, which is what I always buy. I absolutely love this brand and it tastes very homemade (no rague taste). The sodium comes in at 115mg for the low sodium marinara sauce. Not sure where you’re from but I buy mine in Shoprite (live in North Jersey). Silver Palate also has great features such as EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL, NO SUGAR ADDED, NO TOMATO PASTE, KOSHER, GLUTEN FREE, NATURAL. I’ll post the link for your reference 🙂 If you search Gina’s website she has a recipe for homemade tomato sauce. Being the chef that she is, I’m sure this is what she normally makes and uses. But this is meant to be a “quick” recipe in the instant pot, so I would venture to guess that she used the jarred sauce as a quick option for people.

  180. Could you include instructions for cooking on a stove too? We don’t all have instant pots, especially in the UK

  181. I’ve never had a whole-wheat pasta I liked. They all seem to have a strong wheat flavor. Does the Delallo pasta really taste good?

      1. Thanks Barbara and Gina! I know our grocery carry the brand you spoke of , Barbara.. Not sure about the Delallo brand. But, we’ll see.

      2. I did find out the Delallo brand is carried around here. But, the nearest store is 10 miles away. But, Ronzoni is carried here close to us. So, I will try that.

    1. Any whole wheat pasta tastes fantastic when made in a pressure cooker! The pasta becomes infused with the sauce which, is why it’s an especially good reason to use a great pasta sauce. I’ll never eat whole wheat pasta any other way ever again.

  182. I put Long Beach in as a search and it looks like the products are readily available in our area?
    https://www.delallo.com/shop/store-locator.html

    I like Michaels of Brooklyn, get it fairly cheap at Shoprite (I work near there)

  183. I’ve always read that if you’re cooking pasta in the IP that you cook it for half the time the package says to cook it on the stove so the 9 min on high pressure seems long. That being said, I’ve been making something similar to this for awhile and I can confirm that it’s super easy and super delicious!

    1. I think the time may be longer because wheat pasta can take a longer time to cook. I could be wrong, though!

      1. I made this tonight with basic grocery store brand spaghetti. It was my first IP recipe! I thought the pasta was cooked perfectly at 9mins. No issues. The sauce was a tad thinner than I’d normally like but it was super easy to make and great flavor. Great for an IP newbie! 

    2. Megan,
      You said you have always “read” but here we have so much expertise and experience that I would always follow the author’s recipe EXACTLY the first time before questioning the method. This is made with whole wheat pasta. Not every IP cooks exactly the same, so practice and adjustment will help you create your own perfect version of this and any other recipe.

    3. Avatar photo
      caitlin DeLoach

      I absolutely loved the taste of this! I cooked tonight following directions exactly. I used whole wheat noodles from Aldi, and I think they needed a few more minutes to cook. I will definitely make again, but try to 10 or 11 minutes.

      1. Can’t wait to hear about a stove top version!! This would be great for my boys!!

      1. Avatar photo
        Cynthia Gentilcore Arreaga

        Thank God! I was about to ask the same question. I thought you had a special oversized pot. My spaghetti didn’t fit. I printed this out a couple of days ago cooking as we speak. 

  184. What is an Instant Pot. Is there another pot option. I can cook, but don’t cook a lot, but I’m actually making your giant turkey meatball as I type!  Love the simplicity of this and definitely want to try. Love your recipes. 

      1. What size instant pot do you use for your recipes as I’m only 1 person and cant decide what size to get however, I do want left overs and to be able to share my meals sometimes with my 2 daughters

  185. Hi Gina! This looks great. Did you use turkey or beef to calculate the SPs?  In the beginning of your post you mention turkey, but the recipe calls for beef. Thanks????