Instant Pot Baked Ziti
If you’re looking for a comforting, cheesy dish that can be made in a fraction of the time, you’ve come to the right place! Instant Pot Baked Ziti combines the rich flavors of marinara sauce and creamy cheeses with the convenience of cooking in an electric pressure cooker. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you have a crowd to feed, this recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients thanks to the addition of spinach. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish!
What Makes This Recipe Special
This Instant Pot Baked Ziti is special for several reasons. First, it brings together wholesome ingredients like whole wheat pasta and baby spinach, making it a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor. Second, the Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal in about 30 minutes. Lastly, the layering of flavors, thanks to the marinara sauce and a blend of cheeses, creates a comforting dish that everyone will love.
What to Buy
When preparing your Instant Pot Baked Ziti, here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- 1 teaspoon olive oil – for sautéing the garlic and adding flavor.
- 3 garlic cloves – smashed with the side of a knife to release their essence.
- 2 cups chopped baby spinach – for a nutrient boost and vibrant color.
- 2 cups water – to cook the pasta perfectly in the Instant Pot.
- 3/4 teaspoon Kosher salt – to enhance the flavors.
- 10 ounces Delallo whole wheat pasta – such as ziti or cavatappi, providing fiber and heartiness.
- 2 cups homemade or jarred marinara sauce – for that rich, tomatoey goodness.
- 1/2 cup part-skim ricotta – for creaminess and a boost of protein.
- 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano – to add a salty, sharp flavor.
- 1 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese, grated – for that melty, gooey topping.
What You’ll Need (Gear)
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following gear ready:
- Instant Pot – the star of this recipe, ensuring quick cooking.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to measure your ingredients accurately.
- Cutting board and knife – to chop your spinach and smash your garlic.
- Oven-safe dish (optional) – for broiling if you prefer a crispy top.
Instant Pot Baked Ziti: How It’s Done
Making Instant Pot Baked Ziti is straightforward and fun! Follow these steps for a delicious outcome:
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
Begin by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add the olive oil and let it heat up slightly. Once hot, add the smashed garlic cloves and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 2: Add the Spinach
To the sautéed garlic, add the chopped baby spinach. Stir it around for a minute or two until it wilts down. This will infuse the oil with flavor and add a vibrant green color to your dish.
Step 3: Incorporate the Pasta
Next, pour in the water and sprinkle the Kosher salt. Add the whole wheat pasta and gently stir to ensure it’s submerged in the liquid.
Step 4: Add Marinara Sauce
Pour in the marinara sauce over the pasta. Do not stir this time; just let it sit on top. This will help prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 5: Pressure Cook
Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to sealing. Select the manual or pressure cook setting and set it for 5 minutes. The Instant Pot will take a few minutes to come to pressure before the cooking time begins.
Step 6: Quick Release
Once the cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release by turning the valve to venting. Once the steam has fully escaped, open the lid.
Step 7: Mix in the Cheeses
Stir the pasta mixture to combine everything well. Add the ricotta, grated Pecorino Romano, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix until all the cheese is melted and incorporated.
Step 8: Add Remaining Cheese and Broil (Optional)
If you desire a melty, golden top, transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and place it under the broiler for 3-5 minutes until bubbling and slightly browned. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Texture-Safe Substitutions
If you’re looking to customize your Instant Pot Baked Ziti, consider these substitutions:
- Pasta – You can use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
- Spinach – Kale or Swiss chard can also be used for a different flavor profile.
- Ricotta – Cottage cheese can be a great substitute if you’re looking for a lighter option.
- Marinara sauce – Feel free to swap in pesto or Alfredo sauce for a unique twist.
What Could Go Wrong
While making Instant Pot Baked Ziti is generally straightforward, here are a few things to watch out for:
- Burning the garlic: Keep a close eye while sautéing to avoid burnt garlic, which can impart a bitter flavor.
- Pasta sticking: Not stirring the pasta before pressure cooking could lead to it sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Overcooking: Be cautious with the pressure cooking time. Overcooked pasta can become mushy.
- Cheese clumping: Make sure to mix the cheeses in well to avoid clumping.
Best Ways to Store
After enjoying your delicious Instant Pot Baked Ziti, you may have leftovers! Here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label the container with the date.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or extra sauce to keep it moist.
Your Questions, Answered
Can I use regular pasta instead of whole wheat?
Yes, you can use regular pasta, but keep in mind that the cooking time may differ slightly. Whole wheat pasta tends to absorb more water, so you might need to adjust the liquid slightly if using a different type.
How can I make this vegan?
To make this dish vegan, substitute the ricotta and mozzarella with plant-based cheese alternatives. You can also use a vegan marinara sauce.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can brown some ground turkey, beef, or Italian sausage in the Instant Pot before adding the garlic and spinach for a meaty version of baked ziti.
What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?
If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can easily make Baked Ziti in a regular pot on the stovetop and then transfer to an oven-safe dish to bake, or cook it in a conventional oven. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.
Bring It to the Table
Now that you’ve mastered this Instant Pot Baked Ziti recipe, it’s time to serve it up! This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep for the week ahead. The creamy, cheesy goodness paired with the wholesome ingredients makes it a dish everyone can enjoy. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra touch before serving. Enjoy every delicious bite!
With the convenience of the Instant Pot and the heartwarming flavors of baked ziti, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!
Instant Pot Baked Ziti
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add the olive oil and let it heat up slightly. Once hot, add the smashed garlic cloves and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the chopped baby spinach to the sautéed garlic and stir for a minute or two until it wilts.
- Pour in the water and sprinkle the Kosher salt. Add the whole wheat pasta and gently stir to ensure it’s submerged in the liquid.
- Pour in the marinara sauce over the pasta, ensuring not to stir.
- Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Select the manual or pressure cook setting for 5 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release by turning the valve to venting and open the lid.
- Stir the pasta mixture, then add the ricotta, Pecorino Romano, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix until melted and incorporated.
- Transfer to an oven-safe dish, top with remaining mozzarella cheese, and broil for 3-5 minutes until bubbling and browned.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta.
- Add meat by browning ground turkey or beef before adding garlic.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
