18 Delicious Instant Pot Pasta Recipes for Busy Cooks

Are you a busy cook looking for quick and delicious meal ideas? Look no further than your Instant Pot! This versatile electric pressure cooker can help you whip up a variety of tasty pasta dishes in no time. With its ability to quickly cook pasta, sauce, and protein together in one pot, the Instant Pot is perfect for busy cooks who want to spend less time in the kitchen.

In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering Instant Pot pasta recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic comfort foods like creamy mac and cheese to international-inspired dishes like pasta primavera, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a pasta lover or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, keep reading to discover the best Instant Pot pasta recipes for busy cooks.

Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

A comforting classic gets a modern twist with this creamy Instant Pot macaroni and cheese recipe. With just a few ingredients, you can create a rich and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the macaroni and cook until lightly toasted, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 5 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Instant Pot Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

This recipe makes a classic spaghetti dish with a twist – all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot! With this easy-to-follow guide, you’ll have a satisfying meal on the table in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup spaghetti
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Pour in the marinara sauce and stir to combine.
4. Add the spaghetti, salt, and pepper. Stir gently.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: 18 minutes

Garlic Parmesan Instant Pot Pasta

This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights – a flavorful and satisfying pasta dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes. With the help of your Instant Pot, you’ll create a creamy garlic sauce and perfectly cooked pasta with minimal effort.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or penne)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” mode and set the cooking time to 8 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 2 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Open the lid and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including natural pressure release)

Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Transform your pasta night with this Instant Pot recipe that combines the richness of chicken alfredo with the convenience of quick cooking.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup fettuccine pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and melt the butter. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the fettuccine pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” and cook at high pressure for 5 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 2-3 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
5. Open the lid and stir in shredded mozzarella cheese (if using). Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 7-8 minutes total

One-Pot Instant Pot Lasagna

A twist on the classic Italian dish, this One-Pot Instant Pot Lasagna is a convenient and delicious meal that’s ready in no time. With minimal preparation and cooking time, you’ll be enjoying a satisfying and flavorful lasagna without all the fuss.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup lasagna noodles
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, lasagna noodles, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot.
3. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
4. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 8 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.

Cooking Time: 18 minutes

Instant Pot Pasta Primavera

This recipe combines the flavors of spring with the convenience of the Instant Pot, resulting in a creamy and flavorful pasta dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb. pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, mushrooms)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until tender.
4. Add pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
7. Open the lid and stir in Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.

Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes

Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff Pasta

This classic Russian dish gets a modern twist with the help of an Instant Pot. With tender beef, creamy sauce, and al dente pasta, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:
• 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tbsp sour cream
• Chopped parsley or dill for garnish

Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and cook beef until browned.
2. Add garlic, onion, mushrooms, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, and tomato paste; stir to combine.
4. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 10 minutes, followed by a 5-minute natural release.
5. Stir in sour cream and cooked pasta; serve hot, garnished with parsley or dill.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including natural release)

Instant Pot Cajun Pasta

This flavorful dish combines the richness of pasta with the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients:

– 1 lb pasta (such as penne or linguine)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound sausage (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Stir in the pasta.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” mode and set the cooking time to 8 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
8. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: 18 minutes

Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

A bright and flavorful pasta dish that’s ready in no time! This recipe combines succulent shrimp, tangy lemon, and savory garlic in a creamy sauce, all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, fettuccine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the lemon juice, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 3 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Serve the shrimp and sauce over cooked pasta. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 13-14 minutes (including natural pressure release)

Instant Pot Pasta with Sausage and Peppers

Get ready for a flavorful and satisfying meal with this easy recipe! This Instant Pot pasta dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s both comforting and quick.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, rigatoni, or rotini)
– 1 lb. sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the sausage until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the bell peppers; cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the pasta, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 6 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.

Cooking Time: 16 minutes (including pressure release)

Instant Pot Vegan Pasta with Marinara

This recipe yields a quick, flavorful, and comforting vegan pasta dish using the Instant Pot. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious meal in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or rotini)
– 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought, vegan)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the pasta, marinara sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 3-4 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes before opening the lid.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Instant Pot Pasta Carbonara

This recipe brings a twist to the classic Italian dish by using the Instant Pot to cook the pasta and create a rich, creamy sauce. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup spaghetti
– 2 large eggs
– 4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the pancetta until crispy.
2. Add the spaghetti, eggs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 4 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
5. Stir the pasta to combine with the creamy sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 9 minutes

Instant Pot Pasta with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes

This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the convenience of an Instant Pot. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a tasty and satisfying pasta dish ready in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 tablespoons pesto
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to release their juices, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the pesto, chicken broth, pasta, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 5 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 2-3 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
6. Open the lid, stir in some grated Parmesan cheese (if using), and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 7-8 minutes

Instant Pot Pasta e Fagioli

This classic Italian-inspired recipe combines pasta, beans, and vegetables with rich tomato broth, all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. A comforting and satisfying meal that’s ready in under an hour.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb. small pasta shapes (e.g., elbow macaroni, ditalini)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the chopped onion until translucent.
2. Add the garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the pasta, diced tomatoes, red beans, tomato paste, chicken broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook at high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes (includes natural pressure release)

Instant Pot Pasta with Spinach and Artichokes

Quickly cook pasta, spinach, and artichoke hearts to a creamy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe uses the Instant Pot to simplify the cooking process.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 14 oz can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the pasta, water, artichoke hearts, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 5 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 2 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Stir in the spinach and heavy cream until the spinach is wilted and the sauce is creamy.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese.

Cooking Time: 7-8 minutes

Instant Pot Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil

This recipe is a flavorful and healthy twist on classic pasta dishes, featuring the bright flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil. With just 15 minutes of cooking time in the Instant Pot, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup uncooked pasta (such as penne or bowtie)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Add the pasta, water, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 5 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
6. Open the lid, add salt and pepper to taste, and stir in Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Instant Pot Pasta with Mushroom Cream Sauce

This recipe combines the comfort of creamy pasta with the earthiness of mushrooms, all cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot. With minimal prep and cooking time, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound pasta of your choice
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt butter. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and mushrooms; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start browning.
3. Add pasta, heavy cream, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set time to 6 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
6. Open lid, stir pasta, and add chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Cooking Time: 11-12 minutes

Instant Pot Pasta with Broccoli and Cheddar

This recipe combines the convenience of instant pot cooking with a comforting and creamy pasta dish, perfect for a quick weeknight meal. With only a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal in no time!

Ingredients:

– 1 cup pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, red pepper flakes

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the pasta and cook until lightly toasted (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add the broccoli, chicken broth, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 5 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Summary

Get ready to cook up a storm with these 18 delicious Instant Pot pasta recipes! From creamy mac and cheese to hearty lasagna, and from classic spaghetti with meat sauce to vegan options, there’s something for every taste bud. These quick and easy recipes are perfect for busy cooks who want to get a satisfying meal on the table in no time. Say goodbye to cooking woes and hello to flavorful, comforting pasta dishes that will become family favorites.