Instant Pot Skinny Spaghetti

When it comes to busy weeknight dinners, nothing beats the convenience of the Instant Pot. This Instant Pot Skinny Spaghetti recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also packs a flavorful punch with the goodness of ground turkey sausage, whole-wheat spaghetti, and a rich marinara sauce. Perfect for families looking to enjoy a hearty meal without the guilt, this dish is a fantastic way to satisfy your pasta cravings while keeping things healthy. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Instant Pot Skinny Spaghetti is a game-changer for anyone who loves pasta but wants to keep things light. Here are just a few reasons why you’ll adore this recipe:

– Quick and Easy: The Instant Pot cooks your spaghetti in a fraction of the time it takes to prepare traditional pasta, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
– Healthy Ingredients: Using ground turkey sausage and whole-wheat pasta means you’re getting a nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor.
– One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in one pot, which means minimal cleanup afterward. Who doesn’t love that?
– Customizable: You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Your Shopping Guide

Before you get started, here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need to make this Instant Pot Skinny Spaghetti:

• 1 pound ground turkey sausage
• 1 pound whole-wheat spaghetti pasta
• 24 ounces marinara sauce (no sugar added)
• 4 cups water
• 15 ounces diced tomatoes (canned)

Equipment Breakdown

To whip up this delicious dish, you’ll need a few essential tools:

• Instant Pot: The star of the show, allowing you to cook everything quickly and efficiently.
• Wooden Spoon: Perfect for breaking up the ground turkey and stirring the ingredients together.
• Measuring Cups: For accurately measuring your liquids and pasta.
• Can Opener: To easily open your canned tomatoes and marinara sauce.

Build Instant Pot Skinny Spaghetti Step by Step

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps to create your Instant Pot Skinny Spaghetti.

Step 1: Sauté the Ground Turkey

Start by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté setting. Once hot, add the ground turkey sausage. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until it’s browned and cooked through.

Step 2: Add the Marinara and Diced Tomatoes

Once the turkey is cooked, pour in the marinara sauce and the canned diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 3: Add Water and Spaghetti

Next, pour in 4 cups of water, then add the whole-wheat spaghetti. Press the spaghetti down gently to ensure it’s submerged in the liquid, but don’t worry about it being perfectly flat.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and make sure the valve is set to sealing. Select the manual or pressure cook setting and set the timer for 8 minutes.

Step 5: Quick Release

Once the cooking time is complete, carefully perform a quick release by turning the valve to venting. Be cautious of the steam!

Step 6: Stir and Serve

After all the steam has released, open the lid and give your spaghetti a good stir. Serve hot, and garnish with your favorite toppings, like fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

Holiday-Friendly Variations

This Instant Pot Skinny Spaghetti is versatile and can easily be adapted for holiday gatherings or special occasions. Here are a few ideas:

• Vegetable-Loaded: Add your favorite chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini, for a colorful and nutritious twist.
• Cheesy Delight: Incorporate low-fat mozzarella or ricotta cheese before serving for a creamy texture.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra layer of heat.
• Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like parsley or oregano for an aromatic touch.

Troubleshooting Tips

Even the best recipes can encounter hiccups. Here are some troubleshooting tips to ensure your Instant Pot Skinny Spaghetti turns out perfectly:

• If your spaghetti is clumping, try stirring it more vigorously after cooking to break apart any strands.
• If it seems too watery, you can sauté it for a few extra minutes after pressure cooking to reduce the liquid.
• Make sure you’re using enough water; too little can cause the Instant Pot to display a “burn” warning.
• For a thicker sauce, allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking before serving.

Make-Ahead & Storage

If you love meal prepping, this Instant Pot Skinny Spaghetti is perfect for you. Here’s how to make it ahead of time and store leftovers:

You can prepare the entire dish in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the spaghetti in individual portions. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use regular spaghetti instead of whole-wheat?

Yes, you can use regular spaghetti, but keep in mind that whole-wheat pasta offers added fiber and nutrients. Cooking times may slightly vary, so monitor it closely.

Can I use a different type of protein?

Absolutely! Ground chicken, beef, or even plant-based proteins can be substituted for ground turkey sausage according to your preference.

What if I don’t have marinara sauce?

If marinara sauce isn’t available, you can use any tomato-based sauce or even crushed tomatoes with added Italian seasoning for flavor.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute whole-wheat spaghetti with gluten-free pasta. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as gluten-free pasta can vary in cooking times.

Our Most-Loved Recipes

If you enjoyed this Instant Pot Skinny Spaghetti, you might also love these recipes:

• Instant Pot Chicken Curry
• Easy Vegetable Stir-Fry
• Creamy Beef Stroganoff
• Hearty Bean Chili

Final Bite

There’s something truly comforting about a big bowl of spaghetti, especially when it’s made in the Instant Pot. This Instant Pot Skinny Spaghetti not only delivers on flavor but also ensures that you’re feeding your family a nutritious meal. Enjoy the delightful combination of ground turkey sausage, whole-wheat pasta, and a zesty marinara sauce—all in a fraction of the time it would typically take to prepare. Give it a try, and it may just become a new family favorite!

With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious, healthy meal that everyone will love. So, gather your ingredients, fire up that Instant Pot, and get ready to enjoy a comforting bowl of Instant Pot Skinny Spaghetti tonight!