Instant Pot Baked Ziti

Are you ready for a comforting, cheesy dish that comes together in a flash? Instant Pot Baked Ziti is the answer to your weeknight dinner dilemmas. This recipe combines the ease of the Instant Pot with the hearty flavors of baked ziti, ensuring you can whip up a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With layers of gooey cheese, tender pasta, and vibrant spinach, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Instant Pot Baked Ziti is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:

– **Quick and Easy:** The Instant Pot cuts down on cooking time drastically, making it perfect for busy nights.
– **Versatile:** You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients, whether you prefer more veggies, different types of cheese, or even a protein boost.
– **One-Pot Wonder:** Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and family.
– **Freezer Friendly:** Make a double batch, and you’ll have a homemade meal ready to go whenever you need it.

What to Buy

Before diving into this delicious recipe, here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 teaspoon olive oil – To sauté the garlic and enhance the flavors.
• 3 garlic cloves, smashed with the side of a knife – For a robust garlicky flavor.
• 2 cups chopped baby spinach – A great way to sneak in some greens.
• 2 cups water – To help cook the pasta under pressure.
• 3/4 teaspoon Kosher salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• 10 ounces Delallo whole wheat pasta such as ziti or cavatappi, about 3 cups – The star of the show!
• 2 cups homemade or jarred marinara sauce – For that classic Italian flavor.
• 1/2 cup part-skim ricotta – Adds creaminess to the baked ziti.
• 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano – A salty, nutty cheese that elevates the dish.
• 1 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese, grated – For that melty, gooey topping.

Recommended Tools

Getting your kitchen ready for this delightful Instant Pot Baked Ziti will make the process even smoother. Here’s what you need:

• Instant Pot – The essential tool for this recipe.
• Wooden Spoon – For stirring ingredients and avoiding scratches on your Instant Pot.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – To ensure accurate measurements for perfect results.
• Cutting Board and Knife – For chopping garlic and spinach.
• Serving Spoon – To serve up hearty portions of this delicious meal.

Cook Instant Pot Baked Ziti Like This

Follow these simple steps to create your Instant Pot Baked Ziti:

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

Turn on the Instant Pot and select the sauté function. Add the 1 teaspoon of olive oil and allow it to heat up. Once hot, add the 3 smashed garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!

Step 2: Add the Spinach

Next, toss in the 2 cups of chopped baby spinach. Stir for about 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts down and reduces in volume.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Add the 2 cups of water and 3/4 teaspoon of Kosher salt to the pot. Then, pour in the 10 ounces of Delallo whole wheat pasta and gently mix everything together.

Step 4: Add the Marinara Sauce

Pour 2 cups of marinara sauce over the pasta and spinach mixture. Do not stir; just layer it on top.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Seal the Instant Pot lid and make sure the pressure valve is set to sealing. Select the manual or pressure cook option and set the timer for 6 minutes. The Instant Pot will take a few minutes to come to pressure before cooking.

Step 6: Release Pressure and Add Cheese

Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release of pressure. Carefully open the lid, and give everything a good stir. Add the 1/2 cup of part-skim ricotta, 1/4 cup of grated Pecorino Romano, and 1 cup of part-skim mozzarella cheese. Gently fold the cheese into the pasta until well combined.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the Instant Pot Baked Ziti into bowls and enjoy it hot. You can top it with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

Dietary Customizations

This Instant Pot Baked Ziti can easily be tailored to fit various dietary needs:

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the whole wheat pasta with gluten-free pasta.
• Vegan: Use plant-based ricotta and mozzarella cheese alternatives.
• Protein-Packed: Add cooked ground turkey or chicken for extra protein.
• Extra Veggies: Mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.

Slip-Ups to Skip

To make sure your Instant Pot Baked Ziti turns out perfectly, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Don’t skip the sauté step—browning the garlic enhances the flavor.
• Make sure to layer the marinara sauce on top of the pasta without stirring it in before pressure cooking.
• Be cautious while releasing pressure; always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid burns.
• Using too much liquid may lead to a watery consistency—stick to the recommended measurements.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

This Instant Pot Baked Ziti is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store and reheat it:

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Reader Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any shape of pasta you love, just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary.

What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?

You can replace ricotta with cottage cheese, cream cheese, or a vegan alternative if you prefer.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes! You can prepare everything up to the cooking step and store it in the fridge. When ready, just pressure cook as instructed.

What’s a good side dish to serve with baked ziti?

A fresh side salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with Instant Pot Baked Ziti for a complete meal.

Don’t Miss These

If you love this Instant Pot Baked Ziti, you will definitely enjoy these delicious recipes too:

• Baked Ziti With Ricotta
• Baked Chicken Alfredo Ziti
• Cheesy Beef Pepperoni Pasta Bake

That’s a Wrap

This Instant Pot Baked Ziti is a deliciously cheesy, comforting dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. With its quick preparation and easy cleanup, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. So grab your Instant Pot and get ready to indulge in a bowl of pure comfort! Enjoy every cheesy bite!