Introduction
This spaghetti and meatballs recipe combines the rich flavors of lean ground beef and Italian sausage, complemented by a hearty tomato basil sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish is made in an Instant Pot for effortless preparation and speedy cooking. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, these tender meatballs served over spaghetti will satisfy everyone at the table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the meatballs:
– 1 pound lean ground beef
– ½ pound Italian sausage, casing removed
– ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 3 tablespoons whole milk
– 1 large egg, lightly beaten
– ¾ teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the spaghetti:
– 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cups beef stock
– 12 ounces spaghetti, broken in half
– 1 (24-ounce) jar tomato basil pasta sauce
– ⅓ cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 8 minutes under high pressure
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 meatballs and 4 servings of spaghetti
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian sausage, Panko breadcrumbs, whole milk, lightly beaten egg, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix all the ingredients until well combined. Form the mixture into meatballs that are 1 to 1½ inches in size, aiming to yield approximately 24 meatballs.
Sauté the Meatballs
Set a 6-quart Instant Pot to the high sauté setting and add the olive oil. Working in small batches, carefully add the meatballs to the pot and cook them until all sides are browned, which should take about 4 to 5 minutes. Once browned, return all the meatballs to the Instant Pot.
Add the Beef Stock
Pour the beef stock into the Instant Pot, using a spatula or wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This will enhance the flavor of the dish.
Layer the Spaghetti and Sauce
Place the broken spaghetti evenly over the meatballs. Then, pour the tomato basil pasta sauce over the spaghetti, ensuring that the noodles are evenly coated. Do not stir at this point to keep the layers intact.
Cook Under Pressure
Seal the Instant Pot and set it to manual high pressure for 8 minutes. After the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release following the manufacturer’s instructions to release the pressure safely.
Finish and Serve
Once the pressure has been released, gently stir the mixture to separate the spaghetti, about 1 minute. Allow it to stand for 5 minutes so the sauce can thicken. Serve the dish immediately, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Notes
Meatball Variations
For added flavor, consider incorporating grated cheese such as Pecorino Romano or adding finely chopped onions into the meatball mixture.
Gluten-Free Option
Substitute Panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Cooking Tips
Ensure that the beef stock is low-sodium if you prefer to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
Cook techniques
Mixing Ingredients
In a large bowl, thoroughly combine ground beef, Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, seasoning, and garlic, ensuring an even distribution for optimal flavor and texture in the meatballs.
Forming Meatballs
Shape the meat mixture into meatballs that are approximately 1 to 1½ inches in diameter for consistent cooking and even texture.
Sautéing
Utilize the high sauté setting on the Instant Pot to heat olive oil and brown the meatballs on all sides, enhancing their flavor through the browning process.
Layering Ingredients
In the Instant Pot, layer broken spaghetti over the browned meatballs and pour the pasta sauce on top without stirring, which aids in even cooking.
Pressure Cooking
Seal the Instant Pot and set to manual high pressure for 8 minutes, allowing for quick and efficient cooking of the meat and pasta together.
Quick Release
Perform a quick release of pressure following the manufacturer’s instructions to safely and swiftly release steam after cooking.
Stirring and Resting
Gently stir the contents to separate the spaghetti, allowing it to stand for 5 minutes to let the sauce thicken for better adherence to the pasta.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat for the meatballs?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for the beef and sausage, keeping in mind that this will alter the flavor and texture.
What can I use instead of Panko breadcrumbs?
You can use regular breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even oatmeal as a substitute for Panko breadcrumbs.
Is it necessary to use fresh garlic, or can I use garlic powder?
Fresh garlic adds a distinct flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch; just adjust the quantity as it is more concentrated.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance and refrigerate or freeze them for later use. Just ensure they are properly stored.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can replace the meat with a combination of lentils, mushrooms, and plant-based ground meat, and use vegetable broth and a vegetarian pasta sauce.
What can I serve with this dish?
This spaghetti and meatball dish pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This savory recipe combines flavorful meatballs with spaghetti in a rich tomato basil sauce, creating a comforting meal perfect for families or gatherings. Utilizing the Instant Pot speeds up the cooking process, yielding tender meatballs and perfectly cooked pasta, all infused with the essential aromas of garlic and Italian seasoning.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Try incorporating ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version of the meatballs.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Add vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.
More recipes suggestions and combination
For a spicy kick, include red pepper flakes in the meat mixture or sprinkle them on top before serving.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Experiment with different pasta shapes like penne or fettuccine for a twist on the classic spaghetti dish.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Substitute the tomato basil sauce with pesto for a herby flavor and a vibrant green color in the dish.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Top the finished dish with crushed red pepper or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added depth of flavor.
