If you love Italian comfort food but want a quicker, fuss-free way to enjoy a cheesy, hearty meal, this Instant Pot Baked Ziti Recipe is going to become your new best friend. With rich flavors from the browned beef, tangy tomato, and a luscious cheese layer that melts perfectly thanks to the pressure cooking magic, this dish offers all the warmth and satisfaction of traditional baked ziti but in a fraction of the time. It’s a stellar weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish that comes together with very little hands-on time but packs big flavor, making it downright irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Instant Pot Baked Ziti Recipe keeps things straightforward and delicious with simple ingredients where each one shines through. From the savory beef and sweet onions to the Italian seasoning that delivers that classic aroma, every component is essential in building layers of flavor and texture.
- 1 tablespoon oil: Helps brown the beef evenly and prevents sticking during sautéing.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: The hearty protein base that adds richness and depth.
- 1/2 yellow onion, chopped: Brings sweetness and a touch of crunch when sautéed.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle garlicky warmth without overpowering the dish.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that gives the dish its authentic Italian vibe.
- 3/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- Black pepper, to taste: Adds a mild kick and balances the savory notes.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that enriches the sauce.
- 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar: Adds a subtle tang and a hint of sweetness for complexity.
- 4 cups low sodium beef broth: The cooking liquid that keeps the pasta moist and flavorful.
- 1 (14.5-oz) can diced tomatoes: Provides texture and bursts of tomato goodness.
- 16 oz dry ziti pasta: The perfect pasta shape for holding sauce and cheese.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella and parmesan mix): Melts into a gooey topping that makes the dish irresistible.
How to Make Instant Pot Baked Ziti Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Build Flavor
Start by setting your Instant Pot to sauté mode and heating the oil. Add the lean ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned. This step is crucial because browning builds that rich, complex flavor base. Once the beef is browned, toss in the chopped onion, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in the tomato paste and balsamic vinegar and cook for about 30 seconds to marry all those tasty bits together. The smell here alone will get your mouth watering.
Step 2: Deglaze and Add Pasta
Next, it’s time to deglaze the pot with the beef broth. Pour it in while stirring the bottom of the pot carefully to scrape up all the browned bits — this prevents the dreaded burn warning on your Instant Pot and keeps all that flavor locked in. Then, add the diced tomatoes and dry ziti pasta, stirring gently so everything is well combined. This combination of liquids and solids is what will transform into a luscious pasta bake.
Step 3: Pressure Cook and Melt Cheese
Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to pressure cook for 3 minutes (or 4 minutes if your pasta usually takes longer to cook). This short but intense cooking perfectly cooks the ziti, infusing it with sauce flavor without turning mushy. Once the timer goes off, do a quick release to let out the steam. Open the lid, stir in your shredded cheese, then cover the pot again and let it sit for 3 to 5 minutes. This step lets the cheese melt luxuriously into the pasta, creating that classic baked ziti gooey finish.
How to Serve Instant Pot Baked Ziti Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your plate, sprinkle some fresh chopped basil or parsley over the top, adding a pop of color and a fresh, herbal brightness that complements the richness perfectly. A crack of fresh black pepper or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil can also add a nice finishing touch.
Side Dishes
Since this dish is hearty on its own, pairing it with a light green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables balances the meal wonderfully. Garlic bread or warm, crusty bread on the side is also fantastic for soaking up any extra sauce left on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving this ziti in individual oven-safe ramekins topped with extra cheese gives a personal touch and makes for a stunning presentation. You can also sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on top before letting the cheese melt off the heat to add a crunch contrast that’s simply delightful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making reheated portions just as delicious as the first serving.
Freezing
This Instant Pot Baked Ziti Recipe freezes well for up to 3 months. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta from drying out. Covering the dish while reheating helps the cheese melt evenly again, preserving that comforting baked ziti experience.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative and still pairs nicely with the herbs and tomato flavors in this dish.
Do I have to use ziti pasta?
You can swap ziti for penne or rigatoni—any tubular pasta that holds sauce will work perfectly in this Instant Pot Baked Ziti Recipe.
What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?
You can bake this in the oven by cooking the meat sauce separately, mixing it with boiled pasta, layering in a baking dish with cheese, and baking at 375°F until bubbly and golden on top.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the ground beef with your favorite plant-based meat substitute or a combination of sautéed mushrooms and lentils for a meaty texture.
How can I make the cheese topping extra gooey?
Using a mix of mozzarella and parmesan as suggested gives the best melt and flavor. Adding some fresh ricotta or shredded provolone can also boost creaminess and meltiness.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Baked Ziti Recipe is a total game-changer for weeknight dinners. It brings the cozy feeling of a classic baked dish with the speed and convenience of modern cooking technology. Once you try it, you’ll be hooked on how easy and delicious dinner can be without compromising on any of those comforting cheesy, saucy moments. Give it a go and get ready to impress yourself and your family with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
Print
Instant Pot Baked Ziti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Instant Pot “Baked” Ziti recipe is a delicious, easy one-pot pasta dish that combines ground beef, ziti pasta, tomatoes, and a blend of cheeses. Using the Instant Pot for cooking means you get perfectly cooked pasta with rich flavors in just a fraction of the time of traditional baking, making it an ideal weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper, to taste
Liquids and Sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Balsamic vinegar
- 4 cups low sodium beef broth
- 1 (14.5-oz) can diced tomatoes
Pasta and Cheese
- 16 oz dry ziti pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheese (a mix of mozzarella and parmesan recommended, or more to taste)
Instructions
- Brown beef: Set the Instant Pot to the sauté mode and add the oil. Once hot, add the lean ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in the chopped yellow onion, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, tomato paste, and balsamic vinegar. Cook while stirring constantly for about 30 seconds to combine all flavors.
- Deglaze: Pour the low sodium beef broth into the pot, using a spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom to prevent the burn warning on the Instant Pot. Stir in the diced tomatoes along with their juice and then add the dry ziti pasta, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid.
- Cook: Seal the Instant Pot lid and set to pressure cook on high for 3 minutes if your pasta’s package indicates a regular cooking time less than 9 minutes; for pasta requiring more than 9 minutes, cook for 4 minutes. Once done, perform a quick release to release pressure. Open the lid carefully, then stir in the shredded cheese. Close the lid again and let the dish sit for 3 to 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt completely. Serve immediately for a creamy, comforting meal.
Notes
- Be sure to deglaze the pot thoroughly to avoid the burn warning on the Instant Pot.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a leaner version.
- Feel free to increase the cheese quantity or use your favorite cheese blend for extra creaminess.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add crushed red pepper flakes during the sauté step.
- This recipe can be easily doubled if you have a larger Instant Pot.
