2150673721894504 589097241632970 Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Instant pot creamy pasta in a bowl with a fork holding a ziti noodle

Creamy Instant Pot Spinach Pasta with Garlic Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 1 review

  • Author: Susan Ramirez
  • Total Time: 12 minutes
  • Yield: 6 cups 1x
  • Diet: Low Calorie

Description

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, the quest for the perfect balance between scrumptious and time-saving meals is a constant pursuit.

Picture this: a kitchen filled with the tantalizing aroma of cooking pasta, a symphony of flavors dancing in the air.

In the realm of easy recipes, where simplicity meets indulgence, I stumbled upon the easiest dinner solution that has become my go-to on busy weeknights – Instant Pot Spinach Pasta with Garlic.

 This nutritious meal not only transforms into a creamy spinach pasta delight but is also a testament to the magic of pressure cooker pasta.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 Teaspoon of Olive Oil
  • 3 Cloves of Garlic Minced
  • 2 cups of Spinach
  • 10 ounces of Uncooked Pasta
  • 2 cups of Tomato Sauce
  • 1/2 cup of Part Skim Ricotta Cheese
  • 1 cup of Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
  • 3/4 Teaspoon of Salt
  • 2 cups of Water


Instructions

  1. Press sauté on your instant pot/electric pressure cooker. Once hot add in 1 teaspoon of olive oil and garlic and sauté for 1 minute of cooking time. Then hit the cancel button.
  2. Stir in 2 cups of water into your instant pot using a wooden spoon scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze.
  3. Add in your uncooked pasta, spinach, salt and tomato sauce and give it a good stir - try to cover all the pasta with sauce. Close the lid of the instant pot and press cook on high for 7 minutes.
  4. Open the lid when the pressure subsides - you can use the quick release to help relieve the high pressure. Once the pressure has released remove the lid and stir well. Add 2 dollops of ricotta cheese and your shredded mozzarella cheese - cover again with the lid until all melts.
  5. Ready to serve - serving size 1 1/2 cups

Notes

  • Quality Ingredients:Use high-quality pasta, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella for the best flavor.
  • Italian Seasoning:Enhance the taste with a generous sprinkle of Italian seasoning for an authentic touch.
  • Chicken Broth Boost:Instead of plain water, use chicken broth to cook the pasta for added depth of flavor.
  • Optimal Cook Time:Follow the recommended cook time for your pasta type; check the package instructions for guidance.
  • Garlic Powder Magic:Add a pinch of garlic powder to infuse a savory garlic flavor throughout the dish.
  • Natural Release:Allow a natural release of pressure after cooking to ensure pasta doesn't become mushy.
  • Creamy Sauce Creation:Achieve a creamy sauce by stirring in a bit of heavy cream after pressure cooking.
  • Pressure Cooking Perfection:Set the Instant Pot to the recommended pressure cooking time, ensuring pasta is al dente.
  • Al Dente Pasta Technique:For perfect al dente pasta, slightly undercook it in the Instant Pot, as it continues to cook during natural release.
  • Fresh Parsley Finishing:Sprinkle fresh parsley over the pasta before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
  • Softer Pasta Option:If you prefer softer pasta, add a minute or two to the cooking time.
  • Savory Ground Sausage:Brown and add ground sausage for a savory meaty element to the dish.
  • Mozzarella Melting Technique:Add mozzarella towards the end of the cooking process to ensure it melts perfectly.
  • Balanced Tomato Sauce:Adjust the acidity of the tomato sauce with a pinch of sugar if needed.
  • Flavor Layering:Layer the ingredients in the Instant Pot for even distribution of flavors.
  • Seasoning Adjustments:Taste the dish before serving and adjust seasonings like salt and pepper accordingly.
  • Mindful Instant Pot Usage:Familiarize yourself with the Instant Pot settings and functions for efficient use.
  • Mixing Techniques:Gently mix the ingredients after cooking to blend the flavors without breaking the pasta.
  • Airtight Container Storage:Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
  • Reheating Tips:When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to restore the creamy texture.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Instant Pot
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 4.6 g
  • Sodium: 491.5 mg
  • Fat: 5.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 43.3 g
  • Protein: 18.2 g
  • Cholesterol: 16.2 mg