Cooking pasta in an Instant Pot transforms it into a quick, no-fuss meal that is incredibly satisfying. This Instant Pot Pasta dish takes just 15 minutes from start to finish, enhancing flavors through pressure cooking and resulting in a creamy, hearty dish that delights every palate.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend dinner. You can easily double the recipe for a crowd and it stores well in the fridge for leftovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It cooks perfectly in just 5 minutes under pressure.
- The pasta absorbs all the rich flavors of the sauce.
- It’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze.
- You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients before you start cooking for an efficient process.
For Cooking
- 3 cups Water (or substitute with stock)
- 1 tbsp Bouillon (or substitute with 1 stock cube)
- ½ tbsp Garlic powder
- ½ tbsp Onion powder
- 1 lb Penne pasta
For Flavoring
- 2 cups Marinara / Pasta sauce
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
For Creaminess
- ⅓ cup Heavy cream
- ½ cup Parmesan, grated
Use stock for a richer flavor.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Stock can replace water for added depth.
- Use vegetable bouillon for a vegetarian option.
- Any short pasta can be used in place of penne.
- Cream cheese can substitute for heavy cream.
How to Make It
Easily whip up this dish in a few simple steps.
Add ingredients
Start by adding 3 cups of water to the Instant Pot. If you are using stock, you can simply add stock instead of water. Then add the bouillon to the water. You can also skip the bouillon, I highly recommend it – it takes the flavor to a whole new level.
Mix seasonings
Then add the onion powder and garlic powder. Add the olive oil and then the marinara sauce/pasta sauce.
Combine pasta
Next, add the penne and mix with a spatula. The penne should be just under the level of the water.
Pressure cook
Cover the lid of the Instant Pot and pressure cook for 5 minutes. As soon as the cooking cycle is over, perform a quick release of pressure and open the lid. Hit cancel to turn off the Instant Pot. Do not let it continue to cook in ‘Keep Warm’ mode, as this will cause the sauce to dry up.
Add finishing touches
Finally, add the parmesan cheese and the cream, then mix gently to combine. Your creamy Instant Pot pasta is done. Serve hot!
How to Store It
Fridge: 3-5 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: No, the cream can separate.
Reheat: Microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.
Tips for Best Results
- Use a spatula to prevent pasta from sticking.
- Stir the sauce well before pressure cooking to distribute flavors.
- Adjust salt based on stock or bouillon used.
- Don’t skip the quick release for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Serve with garlic bread for a comforting dinner.
- Enjoy with a glass of red wine for a cozy night in.
