Spaghetti Squash And Meatballs Instant Pot
Looking for a delicious and healthy meal that's easy to make? Look no further than spaghetti squash and meatballs in the Instant Pot! This classic dish is perfect for any night of the week, and it's packed with flavor and nutrition. Plus, it's easy to customize to your liking, so you can make it just the way you like it.
What is Spaghetti Squash?
Spaghetti squash is a type of winter squash that is named for its unique texture. When cooked, the flesh of spaghetti squash separates into long, thin strands that resemble spaghetti noodles. This makes it a great alternative to traditional pasta dishes, as it's lower in calories and carbs.
What are Meatballs?
Meatballs are a classic Italian dish that are typically made with ground meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. They can be made with a variety of meats, including beef, pork, or turkey, and can be seasoned with herbs, spices, and even cheese. They're a great addition to pasta dishes, or can be enjoyed on their own as a hearty and filling meal.
How to Make Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs in the Instant Pot
Here's what you'll need:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 jar of your favorite marinara sauce
Instructions:
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
- Place the trivet in the Instant Pot and add 1 cup of water.
- Place the spaghetti squash halves on the trivet, cut side up.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Form the meat mixture into balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
- Place the meatballs on top of the spaghetti squash in the Instant Pot.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs and spaghetti squash.
- Close the Instant Pot lid and set to manual high pressure for 15 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before performing a quick release.
- Carefully remove the spaghetti squash and meatballs from the Instant Pot and serve hot.
Why Use the Instant Pot?
The Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used to cook a wide variety of meals quickly and easily. It's particularly well-suited to dishes like spaghetti squash and meatballs, as it can cook everything together in one pot, saving time and effort. Plus, it's easy to clean up afterward, as there are no pots and pans to scrub.
Customizing Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs
One of the great things about spaghetti squash and meatballs is that it's easy to customize to your liking. Here are a few ideas for how to make this dish your own:
- Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version of the dish.
- Add some chopped vegetables, such as onions, bell peppers, or zucchini, to the marinara sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Top the finished dish with some shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese for added richness.
- Experiment with different seasonings for the meatballs, such as cumin, paprika, or chili powder, to give the dish a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
Spaghetti squash and meatballs in the Instant Pot is a delicious and healthy meal that's perfect for any night of the week. With its unique texture and flavor, spaghetti squash is a great alternative to traditional pasta dishes, and the meatballs are hearty and filling. Plus, the Instant Pot makes it easy to cook everything together in one pot, saving time and effort. So why not give this dish a try and see how delicious and satisfying it can be?
