There’s something so satisfying about a meal that comes together in one pot, especially when the evening feels rushed and the kitchen is your haven of calm. This One Pot Pasta Instant Pot recipe is exactly that—a simple, cozy dish that doesn’t demand hours of your time or a sink full of dishes. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something hearty, flavorful, and fuss-free.
I remember the first time I tried this dish. I was distracted by the buzzing phone and the pile of mail on the counter, but the smell of garlic and onions sautéing in the Instant Pot pulled me back every few minutes. Somewhere between stirring the bubbling sauce and sneaking a taste of melted cheese, I realized dinner was ready before the usual scramble even began. It wasn’t perfect — I think I added a little too much salt — but it was exactly what I needed. The tender pasta soaked up every bit of the tomato and herb-infused broth, and the fresh basil garnish brought just the right pop of brightness. It’s one of those meals you can almost throw together with your eyes closed, though I wouldn’t recommend it.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Fast and fuss-free: You can have dinner on the table in under 20 minutes, which feels like a small miracle on busy days.
- One pot wonder: Cleanup is minimal, so you spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying the meal.
- Comfort food with a fresh twist: The combination of tomato, garlic, and herbs is classic but never boring.
- It’s simple — and that’s kind of the point. This isn’t a complex restaurant dish; it’s honest, homey pasta.
If you’re hesitant about using your Instant Pot for pasta, don’t be. It handles this meal beautifully, and the timing is forgiving enough that you don’t have to be a pressure-cooking pro. Plus, leftovers (if there are any) heat up nicely for next-day lunches or even a quick dinner reboot.
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One Pot Pasta Instant Pot
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A quick and easy one pot pasta recipe made in the Instant Pot. Perfect for a fast, delicious meal with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
1 pound dry penne pasta
4 cups low sodium chicken broth
1 cup water
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add olive oil.
Once hot, add chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add dry penne pasta to the pot and pour in chicken broth, water, and diced tomatoes with their juice.
Sprinkle dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper over the mixture.
Do not stir. Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to sealing.
Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
When cooking is complete, perform a quick release by carefully turning the valve to venting.
Open the lid and stir the pasta well to combine all ingredients.
Add shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
Kitchen Notes: This recipe calls for just one pot, so your Instant Pot or any electric pressure cooker will be your best friend here. When serving, a simple green salad or some crusty bread pairs wonderfully, but honestly, it’s great on its own. If you want to mix things up, I’ve tried swapping penne for rigatoni or adding a handful of spinach at the end — both worked fine, though I’m still experimenting with how much spinach is just right. Sometimes I toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, but that’s totally optional.
FAQ
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, vegetable broth works just as well and keeps the dish vegetarian-friendly.
Is it okay to add the cheese right in the Instant Pot?
Absolutely. Stirring it in at the end melts everything into a creamy, dreamy sauce.
What if I don’t have fresh basil?
Dried basil or even a sprinkle of oregano can still add a nice touch, but fresh is best for that bright finish.
Give this One Pot Pasta Instant Pot recipe a try next time you’re short on time but craving a homemade meal. It’s one of those dishes that becomes a quiet favorite, the kind you keep coming back to on the busiest nights. Save it, print it, and keep your Instant Pot ready—you’ll be glad you did.