Quick & Flavorful 15 Best Instant Pot Pasta Recipes From Italian Classics to Global Comfort
Transform pasta night with these Instant Pot pasta recipes, blending Italian classics, Mexican zest, and American comfort for effortless dinners. Crafted by Oliver and Natalia, with Victor’s cheesy enthusiasm, these dishes draw from our 50+ country travels, ready in 15-45 minutes. Perfect for busy families, they’re adaptable for vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets. Explore our recipes.
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Introduction
Pasta, a cornerstone of cuisines worldwide, captivates with its versatility, pairing with countless sauces and ingredients to suit vegetarian, vegan, or meat-loving diets. In America, it’s a beloved comfort food; in Italy, it’s an art form; in Asia, it inspires noodle dishes with bold flavors. The Instant Pot revolutionizes pasta preparation, turning it into a one-pot marvel that saves time and dishes. From creamy carbonara rooted in Roman tradition to spicy fajita pasta with Mexican flair, these Instant Pot pasta recipes deliver global tastes in minutes. At Mangoes and Palm Trees, we embrace pasta’s universal appeal, curating easy Instant Pot pasta dishes that fuse culinary traditions for quick, family-friendly meals. Explore our Recipes Collection.
The Instant Pot simplifies pasta cooking by merging preparation and sauce-making into a single pot, eliminating multiple pans and constant stovetop monitoring. Its pressure-cooking technology delivers al dente pasta in 5-10 minutes, locking in flavors from aromatic broths, herbs, and spices. This efficiency makes it a favorite for busy home cooks, whether crafting a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast. Our recipes draw on global traditions, blending authenticity with modern ease, perfect for adventurous cooks (Bon Appétit).
Transparency: Video created by Mangoes and Palm Trees to showcase our Instant Pot pasta techniques.
Why These Instant Pot Pasta Recipes Are a Family Favorite
These Instant Pot pasta recipes are more than meals—they’re a global culinary adventure. Inspired by our travels from Italian trattorias to Mexican markets, each dish, from creamy mac and cheese to spicy fajita pasta, brings vibrant flavors to our table. Natalia’s love for Italian classics and Victor’s excitement for cheesy comfort foods make these recipes a family staple. The Instant Pot’s one-pot simplicity saves time, making these dishes perfect for busy evenings or festive gatherings (Serious Eats).
A Taste of Our Travels
From Rome’s carbonara to Mexico’s vibrant fajita flavors, pasta’s global heritage inspires us. The Instant Pot brings these traditions to life with speed and ease, echoing bustling markets and cozy kitchens. Each recipe captures a moment from our culinary journeys, blending authenticity with modern convenience.
Health Benefits in Every Bite
These easy Instant Pot pasta dishes offer balanced nutrition:
- Protein-Rich: Recipes like Crack Chicken Pasta provide ~30g protein per serving, supporting muscle health.
- Vegetable-Packed: Dishes like Vegetarian Fajita Pasta include nutrient-rich bell peppers and spinach.
- Customizable: Swap dairy for vegan alternatives or use gluten-free pasta for dietary needs (Healthline).
Oliver’s Note: Quality ingredients elevate these dishes. Fresh garlic, high-quality olive oil, and authentic cheeses like Parmesan ensure rich flavors. Use a reliable Instant Pot, like the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus, to lock in taste and texture.
15 Best Instant Pot Pasta Recipes
1. Instant Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Rooted in Italian comfort cuisine, this linguine dish combines creamy, garlicky notes with Parmesan’s nutty richness, ready in 20 minutes.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Linguine | 8 oz | Long pasta for creamy texture |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | High-quality extra virgin |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced | Fresh for bold flavor |
| Chicken broth | 3 cups | Low-sodium for balance |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | Enhances savory notes |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp | Adds bright zing |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup | For rich, creamy sauce |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup, grated | Nutty, authentic flavor |
| Parsley | 1 tbsp, chopped | Fresh garnish |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | Adjust to taste |
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
- Sauté Garlic: Set Instant Pot to sauté mode. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil, add 3 minced garlic cloves, and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Pasta and Liquids: Add 8 oz linguine (broken in half), 3 cups chicken broth, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 1/2 tsp salt. Stir to submerge pasta.
- Pressure Cook: Pressure cook on high for 4 minutes, then quick release. Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan until creamy.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with 1 tbsp chopped parsley and serve immediately.
2. Instant Pot Vegetarian Fajita Pasta
Inspired by Mexican street food, this vegetarian pasta bursts with colorful bell peppers and a spicy fajita kick, ready in 30 minutes.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Pasta shells | 8 oz | Medium shells for texture |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | Extra virgin for sautéing |
| Bell peppers | 2 cups, sliced | Mixed colors for vibrancy |
| Onion | 1/2 cup, diced | Adds sweet depth |
| Vegetable broth | 2 cups | Low-sodium for balance |
| Fajita seasoning | 1 tbsp | Spicy, smoky flavor |
| Sour cream | 1/4 cup | Creamy finish |
| Cheddar cheese | 1/2 cup, shredded | Melty, tangy topping |
| Cilantro | 1 tbsp, chopped | Fresh garnish |
Cooking Method
- Sauté Vegetables: On sauté mode, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Add 1/2 cup diced onion and 2 cups sliced bell peppers, cooking for 3 minutes until softened.
- Add Pasta and Broth: Add 8 oz pasta shells, 2 cups vegetable broth, and 1 tbsp fajita seasoning. Stir well.
- Pressure Cook: Pressure cook on high for 5 minutes, then quick release. Stir in 1/4 cup sour cream and 1/2 cup shredded cheddar until melted.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with 1 tbsp chopped cilantro and serve.
Piping Pot Curry inspired this vibrant dish.
3. Instant Pot Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo Pasta
This Mediterranean pasta salad with tangy sun-dried tomatoes and salty feta is ready in 25 minutes.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Orzo pasta | 1 cup | Small, rice-like pasta |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | Extra virgin for sautéing |
| Sun-dried tomatoes | 1/4 cup, chopped | Tangy, intense flavor |
| Kalamata olives | 1/4 cup, sliced | Salty, briny addition |
| Feta cheese | 1/4 cup, crumbled | Creamy, tangy topping |
| Vegetable broth | 2 cups | Low-sodium for balance |
| White wine | 1/4 cup | Adds depth |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Fresh for aroma |
| Basil | 1 tbsp, chopped | Fresh garnish |
Cooking Method
- Sauté Garlic: On sauté mode, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Sauté 2 minced garlic cloves for 1 minute.
- Add Pasta and Liquids: Add 1 cup orzo, 2 cups vegetable broth, 1/4 cup white wine, and 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Stir.
- Pressure Cook: Pressure cook on high for 4 minutes, then quick release. Stir in 1/4 cup sliced Kalamata olives and 1/4 cup crumbled feta.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with 1 tbsp chopped basil. Serve hot, chilled, or at room temperature.
Simply Recipes inspired this Mediterranean delight.
4. Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
A quintessential American comfort food with three cheeses, ready in 25 minutes.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni | 8 oz | Classic shape for creamy texture |
| Butter | 2 tbsp | Adds richness |
| Water | 2 cups | For cooking pasta |
| Cheddar cheese | 1 cup, shredded | Main cheesy flavor |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1/2 cup, shredded | Melty texture |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup, grated | Nutty finish |
| Milk | 1/2 cup | For creamy sauce |
| Smoked paprika | 1/2 tsp | Subtle smoky note |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | Adjust to taste |
Cooking Method
- Add Pasta and Liquids: Add 8 oz elbow macaroni, 2 cups water, 2 tbsp butter, and 1/2 tsp salt to the Instant Pot. Stir.
- Pressure Cook: Pressure cook on high for 4 minutes, then quick release. Stir in 1/2 cup milk, 1 cup shredded cheddar, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika.
- Mix and Serve: Mix until creamy and serve immediately.
Delish inspired this cheesy classic.
5. Instant Pot Ground Beef and Pasta
A hearty Italian-American dish with tangy marinara sauce, ready in 25 minutes.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Campanelle pasta | 8 oz | Twirly shape holds sauce |
| Ground beef | 1 lb | Lean for hearty flavor |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | Extra virgin for sautéing |
| Marinara sauce | 2 cups | Rich tomato base |
| Beef broth | 2 cups | Enhances meaty flavor |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup, grated | Nutty garnish |
| Basil | 1 tbsp, chopped | Fresh garnish |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | Adjust to taste |
Cooking Method
- Brown Beef: On sauté mode, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Brown 1 lb ground beef for 5 minutes, then drain fat.
- Add Pasta and Liquids: Add 8 oz campanelle pasta, 2 cups marinara sauce, 2 cups beef broth, and 1/2 tsp salt. Stir.
- Pressure Cook: Pressure cook on high for 5 minutes, then quick release. Stir in 1/4 cup grated Parmesan.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with 1 tbsp chopped basil and serve.
Damn Delicious inspired this hearty dish.
6. Instant Pot Crack Chicken Pasta
A decadent American dish with tender chicken, smoky bacon, and melted cheese, ready in 30 minutes.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Penne pasta | 8 oz | Holds creamy sauce well |
| Chicken breast | 1 lb, diced | Tender protein |
| Bacon | 4 slices | Smoky flavor |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups | Low-sodium for balance |
| Cream cheese | 4 oz | Creamy base |
| Cheddar cheese | 1/2 cup, shredded | Melty topping |
| Ranch seasoning | 1 tbsp | Tangy, savory flavor |
| Green onions | 1 tbsp, chopped | Fresh garnish |
Cooking Method
- Cook Bacon: On sauté mode, cook 4 bacon slices until crispy, then remove and crumble. Drain fat, reserving 1 tbsp.
- Sauté Chicken: Add 1 lb diced chicken breast to bacon fat, sauté for 3 minutes. Add 8 oz penne, 2 cups chicken broth, and 1 tbsp ranch seasoning.
- Pressure Cook: Pressure cook on high for 5 minutes, then quick release. Stir in 4 oz cream cheese, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar, and crumbled bacon.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with 1 tbsp chopped green onions and serve.
The Tasty Travelers inspired this indulgent dish.
7. Instant Pot Spaghetti
A timeless Italian bolognese, ready in 15 minutes.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 8 oz | Long pasta for classic texture |
| Ground beef | 1 lb | Lean for rich sauce |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | Extra virgin for sautéing |
| Marinara sauce | 2 cups | Tomato base |
| Beef broth | 3 cups | Enhances flavor |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 cup | Adds texture |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | Herb blend |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup, grated | Nutty garnish |
Cooking Method
- Brown Beef: On sauté mode, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Brown 1 lb ground beef for 5 minutes, then drain fat.
- Add Pasta and Liquids: Add 8 oz spaghetti (broken in half), 2 cups marinara sauce, 3 cups beef broth, 1 cup diced tomatoes, and 1 tsp Italian seasoning. Stir.
- Pressure Cook: Pressure cook on high for 4 minutes, then quick release. Stir well.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese and serve.
Pair with a Chianti, inspired by The Salty Marshmallow.
8. Instant Pot Baked Ziti
A cheesy Italian-American casserole, ready in 30 minutes.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Ziti pasta | 8 oz | Tube shape for casserole |
| Ground beef | 1 lb | Lean for hearty flavor |
| Marinara sauce | 2 cups | Rich tomato base |
| Water | 2 cups | For cooking pasta |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1 cup, shredded | Melty topping |
| Ricotta cheese | 1/2 cup | Creamy layer |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup, grated | Nutty finish |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | Herb blend |
Cooking Method
- Brown Beef: On sauté mode, brown 1 lb ground beef for 5 minutes, then drain fat.
- Add Pasta and Liquids: Add 8 oz ziti, 2 cups marinara sauce, 2 cups water, and 1 tsp Italian seasoning. Stir.
- Pressure Cook: Pressure cook on high for 5 minutes, then quick release. Stir in 1/2 cup ricotta and 1 cup shredded mozzarella.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese and serve.
Serve with garlic knots, inspired by The Country Cook.
9. Instant Pot Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Inspired by Tuscany’s rustic cuisine, this colorful pasta is ready in 45 minutes.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Campanelle pasta | 8 oz | Twirly shape holds sauce |
| Chicken breast | 1 lb, diced | Tender protein |
| Sun-dried tomatoes | 1/4 cup, chopped | Tangy flavor |
| Baby spinach | 2 cups | Nutrient-rich green |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups | Low-sodium for balance |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup | Creamy sauce |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup, grated | Nutty topping |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Fresh aroma |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | Extra virgin for sautéing |
Cooking Method
- Sauté Chicken: On sauté mode, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Sauté 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 lb diced chicken breast for 3 minutes.
- Add Pasta and Liquids: Add 8 oz campanelle pasta, 2 cups chicken broth, 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and 2 cups baby spinach. Stir.
- Pressure Cook: Pressure cook on high for 5 minutes, then quick release. Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan.
- Serve: Serve immediately.
Pair with a Pinot Grigio, inspired by Cooking Classy.
10. Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
A vegetarian Italian dish with a creamy tomato sauce, ready in 25 minutes.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Penne pasta | 8 oz | Holds sauce well |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 cup | Fresh or canned |
| Tomato paste | 2 tbsp | Rich tomato flavor |
| Vegetable broth | 2 cups | Low-sodium for balance |
| Heavy cream | 1/4 cup | Creamy texture |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup, grated | Nutty topping |
| Basil | 1 tbsp, chopped | Fresh garnish |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Fresh aroma |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | Extra virgin for sautéing |
Cooking Method
- Sauté Garlic: On sauté mode, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Sauté 2 minced garlic cloves for 1 minute.
- Add Pasta and Liquids: Add 8 oz penne pasta, 1 cup diced tomatoes, 2 tbsp tomato paste, and 2 cups vegetable broth. Stir.
- Pressure Cook: Pressure cook on high for 5 minutes, then quick release. Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with 1 tbsp chopped basil and serve.
Serve with crusty bread, inspired by Cook with Manali.
11. Instant Pot Lemon Pasta with Peas
A bright, vegetarian pasta with a lemony cream sauce, ready in 20 minutes.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Penne pasta | 8 oz | Holds sauce well |
| Frozen peas | 1 cup | Sweet, vibrant green |
| Heavy cream | 1/4 cup | Creamy texture |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup, grated | Nutty topping |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp | Bright flavor |
| Lemon zest | 1 tsp | Zesty aroma |
| Vegetable broth | 2 cups | Low-sodium for balance |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | Extra virgin for sautéing |
Cooking Method
- Add Pasta and Liquids: On sauté mode, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Add 8 oz penne pasta, 2 cups vegetable broth, 1 cup frozen peas, 2 tbsp lemon juice, and 1 tsp lemon zest. Stir.
- Pressure Cook: Pressure cook on high for 4 minutes, then quick release. Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan.
- Serve: Serve immediately.
Pair with sparkling lemonade, inspired by Spoonful of Flavor.
12. Instant Pot Beef and Bowtie Pasta
A comforting American dish with cheesy beef and bowtie pasta, ready in 20 minutes.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Bowtie pasta | 8 oz | Charming shape |
| Ground beef | 1 lb | Lean for hearty flavor |
| Beef broth | 2 cups | Enhances meaty flavor |
| Cheddar cheese | 1/2 cup, shredded | Melty topping |
| Cream cheese | 4 oz | Creamy base |
| Minced onion | 1/4 cup | Adds depth |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | Herb blend |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | Extra virgin for sautéing |
Cooking Method
- Brown Beef: On sauté mode, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Brown 1 lb ground beef and 1/4 cup minced onion for 5 minutes, then drain fat.
- Add Pasta and Broth: Add 8 oz bowtie pasta, 2 cups beef broth, and 1 tsp Italian seasoning. Stir.
- Pressure Cook: Pressure cook on high for 4 minutes, then quick release. Stir in 4 oz cream cheese and 1/2 cup shredded cheddar.
- Serve: Serve immediately.
Serve with a green salad, inspired by One Happy Housewife.
13. Instant Pot Penne Pasta
A quick vegetarian Italian dish with fresh spinach and marinara, ready in 25 minutes.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Penne pasta | 8 oz | Holds sauce well |
| Marinara sauce | 2 cups | Rich tomato base |
| Baby spinach | 2 cups | Nutrient-rich green |
| Vegetable broth | 2 cups | Low-sodium for balance |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup, grated | Nutty topping |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | Extra virgin for sautéing |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Fresh aroma |
Cooking Method
- Sauté Garlic: On sauté mode, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Sauté 2 minced garlic cloves for 1 minute.
- Add Pasta and Liquids: Add 8 oz penne pasta, 2 cups marinara sauce, 2 cups vegetable broth, and 2 cups baby spinach. Stir.
- Pressure Cook: Pressure cook on high for 5 minutes, then quick release. Stir in 1/4 cup grated Parmesan.
- Serve: Serve immediately.
Pair with sparkling water, inspired by Peas and Crayons.
14. Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan Manicotti
An Italian stuffed pasta dish with creamy chicken filling, ready in 30 minutes.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Manicotti pasta | 8 oz | Large tubes for stuffing |
| Chicken breast | 1 lb, shredded | Tender filling |
| Marinara sauce | 2 cups | Rich tomato base |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1 cup, shredded | Melty topping |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup, grated | Nutty finish |
| Ricotta cheese | 1/2 cup | Creamy filling |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | Herb blend |
| Water | 1 cup | For cooking pasta |
Cooking Method
- Prepare Filling: Mix 1 lb shredded chicken breast, 1/2 cup ricotta, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, and 1 tsp Italian seasoning. Stuff into 8 oz manicotti tubes.
- Layer Ingredients: Pour 1 cup water and 1 cup marinara sauce into the Instant Pot. Layer stuffed manicotti, then top with 1 cup marinara sauce and 1 cup shredded mozzarella.
- Pressure Cook: Pressure cook on high for 7 minutes, then quick release.
- Serve: Serve immediately.
Serve with roasted zucchini, inspired by 365 Days of Crockpot.
15. Instant Pot Pasta Carbonara
A creamy Roman classic with smoky bacon and egg sauce, ready in 20 minutes.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 8 oz | Long pasta for creamy texture |
| Bacon | 4 slices | Smoky flavor |
| Egg | 1 | For creamy sauce |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup, grated | Nutty topping |
| Water | 3 cups | For cooking pasta |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Fresh aroma |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp | Spicy finish |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | Extra virgin for sautéing |
Cooking Method
- Cook Bacon: On sauté mode, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Cook 4 bacon slices until crispy, then remove and crumble.
- Sauté Garlic: Sauté 2 minced garlic cloves for 1 minute. Add 8 oz spaghetti (broken in half), 3 cups water, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
- Pressure Cook: Pressure cook on high for 4 minutes, then quick release. Stir in 1 beaten egg and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan until creamy.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with crumbled bacon and serve.
Pair with a Caesar salad, inspired by Crunchy Creamy Sweet.
Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Pasta
Choosing the Right Pasta
Select short pasta shapes like penne, ziti, or bowtie for even cooking, as they withstand pressure better. Break long pasta like spaghetti in half to prevent clumping. Avoid delicate varieties like angel hair, which may become mushy.
Maintaining Liquid Ratios
Use a 1:2 ratio of pasta to liquid (e.g., 8 oz pasta to 2 cups broth) to achieve the right texture. For thicker sauces, like in carbonara, add an extra 1/2 cup liquid to ensure proper cooking.
Preventing Pasta Sticking
Stir pasta and liquid thoroughly before sealing the Instant Pot to distribute evenly. Add 1 tbsp olive oil to reduce sticking, and use quick release to halt cooking and preserve texture.
Customizing for Dietary Needs
For vegan diets, swap cream with coconut milk and cheese with nutritional yeast, as in the Tomato Basil Pasta. For gluten-free, use certified gluten-free pasta, reducing cook time by 1-2 minutes.
Pairing Suggestions
Elevate your meal with beverages from our Recipes Collection—try a crisp white wine with creamy dishes or a sparkling water with vegetarian options. Pair with fresh salads or crusty bread for a complete experience.