Instant Pot Baked Ziti with Meat – Pineapple Dessert Easy Twist
This Instant Pot baked ziti is the ultimate quick dinner! Perfect for busy nights when you want a hearty, satisfying meal with minimal effort.
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (24-ounce) jar of pasta sauce
- 3 cups water (divided)
- 12 ounces ziti pasta (uncooked)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Turn on the Instant Pot and set to Sauté mode. Add olive oil and ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Turn off Sauté mode. Add 1 cup of water and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze.
- Pour in pasta sauce and remaining 2 cups of water. Stir well.
- Add the uncooked ziti but do not stir—just press the pasta down slightly to submerge.
- Seal the Instant Pot lid and cook on Manual (High Pressure) for 6 minutes. Quick release the pressure once done.
- Stir in heavy cream (if using) and ricotta cheese. Let sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Cover loosely with the lid and let sit until cheese is melted.
- Serve warm and enjoy!