A creamy and cheesy pasta dish comes together quickly using the Instant Pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a comforting meal that everyone will love in no time.
Prep Time20 min
Cook Time15 min
Total Time35 min
Difficulty
Medium
Chef Tips
Use whole milk or heavy cream for a richer sauce.
Stir well after cooking to prevent the cheese from clumping.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or black pepper to enhance the cheese flavor.
Ingredients
0/14
Why You'll Keep Making This
Creamy, comforting, and ready in no time thanks to the Instant Pot. The cheese melts perfectly, coating every piece of pasta with rich flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy a cheesy meal without standing over the stove.
Step 1
Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté setting and heating up a little oil. Toss in the ground beef along with chopped onions, celery, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook everything together, stirring often, until the beef is nicely browned and broken up, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
Step 2
Pour in the water, spaghetti sauce, rigatoni, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Give it all a good stir to combine.
Step 3
Seal the lid and set your Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 4 minutes. It might take around 10 to 15 minutes for the pot to come up to pressure before the timer starts counting down.
Step 4
When the cooking time is up, carefully do a quick release to let out the steam—just follow your Instant Pot’s instructions for this part. Once the pressure’s fully released, open the lid.
Step 5
Now, it’s time to stir in the Cheddar cheese. Add it gradually, about half a cup at a time, stirring until it melts and everything is creamy and delicious. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if you need to, then serve it up warm.
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people cooked this recipe
ByDaniel Wilson
Daniel focuses on practical recipes with clear steps and familiar ingredients.
Serving Style Ideas
Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil adds freshness. Garlic bread or a simple bruschetta on the side makes a complete, satisfying meal.
Storing Food Safely
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much. Avoid freezing, as the texture can change after thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other sturdy pasta shapes like penne or ziti, but cooking times may vary slightly.
Do I need to brown the beef before pressure cooking?
Browning the beef with the vegetables adds flavor and texture, so it's recommended.
Can I substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but the cooking time and seasoning may need slight adjustments.
How do I do a quick release safely on the Instant Pot?
Use a long utensil to carefully turn the steam release valve away from you, following your Instant Pot’s instructions.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can omit the meat and use plant-based protein or extra vegetables, but you may want to adjust seasoning and cooking time.
What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
Soy sauce or balsamic vinegar are good substitutes that add a similar depth of flavor.
Will the pasta get mushy if I cook it longer?
Yes, overcooking can make the pasta mushy, so stick to the recommended 4 minutes under pressure.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance and reheat it?
Yes, it reheats well in the microwave or on the stove; add a splash of water if it thickens too much.
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