Instant Pot Baked Ziti: Comforting Italian Delight

Name: Instant Pot Baked Ziti
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy); 24 oz marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 handful fresh basil; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp garlic powder

By Elisa Levine

July 3, 2025

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Indulging in a bowl of Instant Pot Baked Ziti feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Picture this: pasta enveloped in a rich, savory tomato sauce, gooey melted cheese cascading over the edges, and aromatic herbs teasing your senses. Each forkful bursts with flavor and comfort that makes you feel like you’re dining at an Italian nonna’s kitchen.

As I prepare this delightful dish, I can’t help but reminisce about family gatherings where laughter filled the air, and plates piled high with ziti were passed around like currency of love. Instant Pot Baked Ziti is perfect for cozy family dinners or last-minute potlucks when you want to impress without stress! Prepare yourself for a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Instant Pot Baked Ziti offers impressive flavor without the fuss of traditional baking
It’s a one-pot wonder that saves time on cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights
The cheesy goodness looks as good as it tastes, sure to impress your guests
You can easily customize the ingredients based on dietary preferences or what’s in your pantry

Ingredients for Instant Pot Baked Ziti

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ziti Pasta: Use about 12 ounces of ziti for the perfect al dente texture that holds up well in sauce.
Italian Sausage: Choose either mild or spicy based on your preference; it adds depth and heartiness to the dish.
Marinara Sauce: About 24 ounces will create a luscious base; opt for your favorite jarred version or homemade if you’re feeling adventurous.
Ricotta Cheese: A cup of ricotta contributes creaminess and richness that elevates every bite.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Two cups provide that glorious melty topping; don’t skimp here!
Fresh Basil: A handful of fresh basil adds brightness and aroma; it’s like a burst of summer in every spoonful.

For the seasoning:

Dried Oregano: Just one teaspoon will enhance the Italian flavors beautifully.
Garlic Powder: Using one teaspoon elevates the taste profile without overpowering other ingredients.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Instant Pot Baked Ziti

How to Make Instant Pot Baked Ziti

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage

Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart into small pieces with a spatula.

Step 2: Add Marinara Sauce

Once the sausage is cooked, pour in the marinara sauce. Stir it well to combine with all those meaty bits left behind—flavor bomb alert!

Step 3: Layer in Ziti

Carefully add uncooked ziti pasta directly into the pot. Pour just enough water (about two cups) over it to cover while ensuring it’s submerged but not drowning.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Seal your Instant Pot lid and set it to pressure cook on high for just five minutes. Yes, five! The magic happens quickly here.

Step 5: Stir in Cheeses

After cooking, release pressure carefully. Open that lid to reveal perfectly cooked ziti! Stir in ricotta cheese until well combined before topping with shredded mozzarella.

Step 6: Broil for Gorgeousness

If desired (and I highly recommend), transfer everything into an oven-safe dish and broil for three minutes until gooey and golden brown on top.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra marinara sauce as a finishing touch–because why not? You’re about to enjoy something extraordinary!

This Instant Pot Baked Ziti is bound to become a beloved staple in your home—perfectly comforting yet incredibly easy! So grab a fork and dig into this cheesy masterpiece today!

You Must Know

This delightful Instant Pot Baked Ziti delivers comfort food at its finest, transforming a classic dish into a quick and easy meal
It’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal effort
The cheesy goodness and rich flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve that perfectly cooked Instant Pot Baked Ziti, start by sautéing your meat first; this adds flavor right from the get-go. While that’s happening, cook your pasta separately to ensure it’s al dente before mixing it all in with the sauce.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your Instant Pot Baked Ziti by swapping out ground beef for turkey or adding veggies like spinach or mushrooms. Experiment with different cheeses or even toss in some spicy sausage if you’re feeling adventurous!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Instant Pot Baked Ziti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water to maintain moisture and heat it in the microwave or oven until bubbly.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use a mix of cheeses for depth; mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan create a deliciously creamy texture
Don’t skip on sautéing ingredients beforehand; it enhances the overall flavor
Finally, let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking to set up perfectly

My friend once told me that this Instant Pot Baked Ziti saved her dinner party when she burnt the garlic bread! It was such a hit that no one even noticed the crispy disaster on the side.

FAQs:

What is Instant Pot Baked Ziti?

Instant Pot Baked Ziti is a delicious Italian-American dish made with pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella, all cooked together in an Instant Pot. This one-pot meal simplifies the cooking process while enhancing flavors through pressure cooking. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and can easily be customized with your favorite proteins or vegetables.

How long does it take to make Instant Pot Baked Ziti?

Making Instant Pot Baked Ziti takes around 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes the time required for sautéing ingredients, pressure cooking, and natural release. The quick cooking method allows you to enjoy this comforting dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

Can I make Instant Pot Baked Ziti ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Instant Pot Baked Ziti ahead of time. Simply assemble all ingredients in the pot and refrigerate until ready to cook. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly if the dish is cold when you start cooking. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or hosting gatherings.

Is Instant Pot Baked Ziti suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! Instant Pot Baked Ziti can easily be made vegetarian by using plant-based ingredients. Substitute meat with vegetables like spinach or mushrooms and opt for vegetarian cheese options. This recipe allows flexibility while still delivering a hearty and satisfying meal.

Conclusion for Instant Pot Baked Ziti:

In summary, Instant Pot Baked Ziti is a convenient and flavorful dish that brings comfort food to your table in no time. With its simple preparation and customizable nature, this one-pot meal appeals to everyone, including vegetarians. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, you’ll love how easy it is to enjoy delicious baked ziti at home.

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