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Instant Pot Baked Ziti

Hearty baked ziti made quickly in the Instant Pot with Italian sausage, tomato sauce, and creamy cheeses.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time6 minutes
Total Time16 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 lb mild or spicy Italian sausage casings removed
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 24 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 15 oz diced tomatoes with juices
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 lb ziti pasta
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 3/4 cup ricotta cheese

Instructions

  • Place the Instant Pot stainless steel insert in the cooker and select the Sauté setting; add the olive oil and heat until shimmering.
  • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until the onion is almost translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
  • Stir in the dried Italian seasoning and oregano.
  • Add the Italian sausage (casings removed) and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until no longer pink and browned bits form on the bottom.
  • Press Cancel/Off. Pour 1/4 cup water into the pot and scrape the browned bits from the bottom to deglaze.
  • Pour in the ziti and 2 cups water and stir to combine.
  • Pour the diced tomatoes (with juices) over the pasta, add the tomato paste and crushed tomatoes, but do not stir after adding the tomato cans.
  • Close the lid, set the valve to Sealing, select Manual (or Pressure Cook) and set the timer for 6 minutes.
  • When the cooking time ends, press Off/Cancel then quick-release the pressure by switching the valve to Venting; when the float drops, open the lid carefully.
  • Stir in the shredded mozzarella and ricotta until evenly combined; season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
  • Serve immediately, optionally topped with fresh basil and grated Parmesan if desired.

Equipment

  • Instant Pot or Electric Pressure Cooker
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Can opener

Notes

  • Nutrition estimates vary by product choice.
  • Penne can be used instead of ziti.
  • Substitute ground beef or different sausage heat levels as preferred.