If you are craving a delicious, hearty meal that comes together in a flash, this Instant Pot Spaghetti with Italian Sausage Recipe is a total game-changer. Imagine tender, perfectly cooked spaghetti noodles swimming in a rich, savory marinara sauce, infused with the bold flavors of Italian sausage, garlic, and fragrant herbs—all made in one pot with minimal fuss. This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights but delivers restaurant-quality comfort food that everyone at the table will love. It’s simple, satisfying, and so much fun to make!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward ingredients form the backbone of an unforgettable dish. Each one plays an important role: the Italian sausage brings spice and richness, the garlic and onions add aromatic depth, and the marinara sauce ties it all together with vibrant tomato flavor.
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage: Choose spicy or mild depending on your preference; it packs the dish with its signature flavor.
- ½ small red onion (diced): Adds subtle sweetness and texture that balances savory meat.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic gives the sauce that irresistible punch and warmth.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that captures classic Italian flavors.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential to season every component and bring out their natural tastes.
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: A gentle kick of heat that lifts the whole dish.
- 24 ounces marinara sauce (1 standard jar): Pick a good-quality sauce for robust, bright tomato goodness.
- 8 ounces spaghetti noodles (uncooked): Breaking them in half ensures even cooking under pressure.
- 1 ½ cups water: Keeps the noodles perfectly hydrated and helps build steam inside the Instant Pot.
- Parmesan cheese (for serving): The finishing touch that adds creaminess and a savory bite.
How to Make Instant Pot Spaghetti with Italian Sausage Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the sausage and onion
Start by pressing the Sauté button on your Instant Pot to heat it up. Once hot, add the ground Italian sausage along with the diced onion. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it browns evenly. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until the sausage loses its pink color. This step develops deep, caramelized flavors that form the base of your sauce.
Step 2: Add garlic and seasonings
Next, toss in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir and sauté for an additional minute. This brief cooking bursts the garlic’s aroma and infuses the dish with warm, herbal notes that highlight the Italian vibe.
Step 3: Add marinara sauce
Hit the Cancel button to stop the sauté function, then pour in the marinara sauce. Give everything a good stir to combine the meat and seasonings with the luscious tomato base, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 4: Arrange the spaghetti noodles
Carefully break the spaghetti noodles in half and place them in an even layer over the sauce mixture. This technique helps the noodles cook evenly without clumping together.
Step 5: Add water without stirring
Pour 1 ½ cups of water into the empty sauce jar, close it, give it a gentle shake to get every last bit of sauce, then pour this saucy water over the noodles. Be sure not to stir after adding the water—this keeps the noodles submerged properly and prevents sticking.
Step 6: Pressure cook the spaghetti
Close the Instant Pot lid and ensure the pressure valve is securely sealed. Set the cooker to Manual High Pressure for 8 minutes. When the time is up, carefully perform a Quick Pressure Release to release all the steam.
Step 7: Stir and finish
After removing the lid, give the spaghetti and sauce a thorough stir to combine everything into a cohesive, saucy masterpiece. This is the moment the noodles soak up all those rich, savory flavors.
Step 8: Serve immediately with Parmesan
Dish out your Instant Pot spaghetti onto plates and generously sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The cheesy topping melts slightly into the hot pasta, adding a wonderful creamy finish you’ll adore.
How to Serve Instant Pot Spaghetti with Italian Sausage Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves, chopped parsley, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil make perfect garnishes that elevate both flavor and presentation. Don’t shy away from adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you love a little extra heat.
Side Dishes
A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some garlic bread makes ideal companions to balance the rich, hearty pasta. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers offer a splash of color and a healthy sidekick.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the spaghetti in hollowed-out bread bowls or layer it in individual ramekins topped with mozzarella and broiled until bubbly. These little touches turn a comforting meal into a memorable dining experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let leftovers cool completely and transfer them into an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, your Instant Pot Spaghetti with Italian Sausage Recipe will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days—perfect for quick lunches or dinner rewinds.
Freezing
You can freeze the spaghetti in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve the texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, use the microwave, stirring every minute or so to ensure even heating and prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use regular ground beef instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Using ground beef is a great alternative if you prefer a milder flavor. You can add extra Italian seasoning for a similar taste profile.
Do I need to break the spaghetti noodles before cooking?
Breaking the noodles in half helps them fit better in the Instant Pot and ensures even cooking without clumping. It’s a handy little trick for best results.
What happens if I stir the pasta after adding water?
Avoid stirring after adding water. Stirring can cause the noodles to stick to the bottom and may lead to a “Burn” warning on the Instant Pot, interrupting the cooking process.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based crumbles or extra vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian version.
Is it possible to prepare this recipe without an Instant Pot?
While this recipe is specifically designed for the Instant Pot, you can mimic it on the stovetop by browning the sausage and onions, simmering the sauce, and separately boiling the pasta before combining everything.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like a steaming bowl of homemade spaghetti bursting with Italian flair, and this Instant Pot Spaghetti with Italian Sausage Recipe makes it easier than ever to enjoy that comfort without complicated steps or long wait times. I’m excited for you to try it—you might find it becomes one of your go-to weeknight meals, just like it did for me!
