Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever crave proper comfort food but lack the time? This Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs recipe ticks all the boxes.

It’s a healthy ish version of a classic, ready in under an hour!

Brief Overview

Spaghetti squash is a fantastic alternative to pasta. It's lower in carbs and packed with nutrients. This recipe is easy enough for a weeknight and yields four generous servings.

Main Benefits

This Healthy Spaghetti Squash Meatball Recipe is packed with protein and fibre. It's also far less carb heavy than regular pasta dishes. This is a crowd pleaser.

Making Spaghetti Squash With Meatballs in an Instant Pot

Oh my gosh, I remember the first time I tried cooking spaghetti squash! The microwave was not my friend. Luckily, the Instant Pot saves the day.

The Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash Recipe makes it foolproof!

This Pressure Cooker Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs method keeps the squash perfectly cooked. It keeps the Meatballs Spaghetti Squash tender.

It’s the ultimate quick and easy meal. I love making this on a Wednesday. I also love wine.

What You'll Need for this Instant Pot Wonder

Let's gather our ingredients. We'll need spaghetti squash, ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, milk, olive oil, onion, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, sugar and seasoning.

Don't skimp on the Parmesan. It adds so much flavour to the Turkey Meatballs and Spaghetti Squash .

About the Meatballs

You can use shop bought meatballs if you're in a rush. If you want to make your own, mix ground beef with breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, milk, salt, and pepper.

Don’t overmix! This is the key to tender meatballs. For a leaner version, swap ground beef with ground Turkey Meatballs and Spaghetti Squash .

Pro Tip: Flavour Boost

Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat. A good sear on the meatballs will add another layer of flavor.

Ensure a good sear by browning the surface to give it a crispy texture. Honestly, this makes a world of difference to your Spaghetti Squash With Turkey Meatballs .

Ingredients & Equipment

Right then, let's get down to brass tacks. What do you need to whip up this stonking Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs masterpiece? Don't worry, it's easier than navigating the M25 on a Friday afternoon.

We will be making some great Spaghetti Squash With Meatballs

Main Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash ( 2-3 lbs/900g-1.4kg ). Look for one that feels heavy for its size! No one likes a dud squash.

• 1 cup (240ml) water. This is important for the Instant Pot to do its thing.

• 1 teaspoon olive oil. Just a glug for the squash.

• Salt and pepper. To taste, obviously!

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef ( 80/20 blend). Get the good stuff; it makes a difference for Meatball Spaghetti Squash .

• ½ cup (50g) breadcrumbs. Italian seasoned are a good shout!

• ¼ cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese. Makes the Turkey Meatballs And Spaghetti Squash extra cheesy!

• 1 large egg, lightly beaten. Binds it all together.

• 2 cloves garlic, minced. Don't be shy!

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley. Adds a bit of freshness to the Spaghetti Squash With Turkey Meatballs .

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano. Classic Italian flavor.

• ½ teaspoon salt. For seasoning.

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper. A pinch of warmth.

• ¼ cup (60ml) milk. Any kind will do.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil.

• 1 small onion, chopped.

• 2 cloves garlic, minced.

• 1 (28 oz/794g) can crushed tomatoes.

• 1 (15 oz/425g) can tomato sauce.

• 1 teaspoon dried basil.

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano.

• ½ teaspoon sugar. Balances the acidity if needed.

• Salt and pepper.

Seasoning Notes

Seriously, the essential spice combinations here are Italian staples. Oregano and basil are non-negotiable. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.

No fresh parsley? Dried will do in a pinch, but fresh is always better.

Equipment Needed

• Instant Pot (6-quart or larger). This is the star of the show for this Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash Recipe .
• Steamer basket or trivet for the Instant Pot . Keeps the squash out of the water.
• Large bowl. For mixing the meatballs.
• Measuring cups and spoons. For precision, innit?
• Knife and cutting board. For chopping.
• Small saucepan (if making your own sauce). You can cheat and use jarred, I won't judge.

Essential tools only , folks. If you don't have a steamer basket, a trivet with some foil loosely covering it will do.

We are making some great Pressure Cooker Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs

Right, there it is. Now get cracking! This Healthy Spaghetti Squash Meatball Recipe won't make itself. And trust me, this Low Carb Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs is bloomin' delicious! It is an Easy Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs dinner.

Cooking Method: Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs Magic!

Okay, so I'm obsessed with my Instant Pot. Honestly, it's a game changer for busy weeknights. And this Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs recipe? Absolute winner! I remember the first time I made it, I was blown away by how quickly it all came together.

We are talking healthy Spaghetti Squash With Meatballs on the table faster than you can say 'Deliveroo'. I always had trouble making my Meatball Spaghetti Squash come out right in the oven, but the Instant Pot is like cheating it is so easy!

Prep Steps: Get Your Mise En Place On!

First things first, let's get organised. It's all about the prep! We will go from zero to hero in no time.

• Essential mise en place: Chop your onion and garlic. Mix the meatball ingredients. Halve that squash and scoop out the seeds. It's all about the chopping board.
• Time saving organization tips: While the sauce simmers (if you're making it from scratch, you can just use store-bought!), prep the spaghetti squash and meatballs. Multitasking, baby!
• Safety reminders: Don't overfill the Instant Pot! And be super careful when releasing the pressure. Steam burns are no joke, people!

step-by-step Process: Simple as Pie (Or Should I Say, Spaghetti?)

Ready to get this show on the road? I have some Turkey Meatballs And Spaghetti Squash in my freezer, perfect for this dish.

1. Prep the Squash: Halve the spaghetti squash. Scoop out seeds, and drizzle with a teaspoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Make the Meatballs: Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and milk in a bowl. Gently mix. Form into 1 inch meatballs.
3. Make the Sauce: Simmer your homemade sauce for about 15 minutes. If you're using jarred sauce, you're already winning!
4. Assemble in the Instant Pot: Pour 1 cup (240ml) water into the Instant Pot. Place the trivet. Add spaghetti squash, cut-side up. Place meatballs around and on top. Pour sauce over everything.
5. Pressure Cook: Cook on High Pressure for 8 minutes .
6. Release Pressure: Natural Pressure Release for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
7. Shred and Serve: Shred the squash with a fork. Toss with meatballs and sauce. Serve immediately, and enjoy your Spaghetti Squash With Turkey Meatballs .

Pro Tips: From Good to Great

Want to take this Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash Recipe to the next level? Here are a few secrets.

• Don't overmix those meatballs! : Overmixing equals tough meatballs. Gently combine, my friends.
• Brown your meatballs: Take an extra 5 minutes and sear your meatballs in a pan first. The browning gives it a next level flavour . I always add an extra dimension to the recipe.
• make-ahead option: The sauce can be made days in advance. It actually tastes better after a day or two! This is perfect for a Pressure Cooker Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs .

Honestly, this Healthy Spaghetti Squash Meatball Recipe is such a comforting meal. And using spaghetti squash instead of pasta is a great way to keep it Low Carb Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs .

It's also a super Easy Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs to make. Give it a go, and you won't regret it!

Recipe Notes for Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs

Alright, listen up, foodie friends! Now that you’ve got the recipe down, let's chat about a few extra bits and bobs to make this Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs dish truly your own.

Honestly, I've made this Healthy Spaghetti Squash Meatball Recipe so many times, I reckon I could do it in my sleep but these little tweaks can take it from good to bloody brilliant .

Fab Serving Suggestions

Let's talk presentation, yeah? First, a generous swirl of the Meatballs Spaghetti Squash on a plate. Then, I love to top it with a dollop of ricotta cheese.

Adds a creamy coolness. And don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh basil. So pretty! For sides, garlic bread is a must, obviously.

Or, for something lighter, a simple green salad. For a drink? A nice glass of red wine or even a sparkling Italian soda.

Bellissimo!

Clever Storage Tips

Got leftovers? No worries! You can totally keep this Spaghetti Squash With Meatballs goodness for later. Just pop it in an airtight container and into the fridge.

It’ll keep for about 3 days. Freezing is also an option. The Spaghetti Squash With Turkey Meatballs might be a little softer after thawing, but still tastes great.

Reheat it in the microwave or in a pan on the hob. Remember to always cool down food properly before refrigerating or freezing.

Wicked Variations

Fancy a change? For a Low Carb Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs version, skip the breadcrumbs in the meatballs or use almond flour instead.

You could also make Turkey Meatballs And Spaghetti Squash by using ground turkey instead of beef. Seasonally, I like adding roasted veggies to the sauce in autumn.

Think butternut squash or sweet potatoes. Proper autumnal flavours!

Nutrition Nitty Gritty

Okay, so this Easy Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs recipe is healthier than traditional spaghetti and meatballs. Spaghetti squash is lower in carbs and calories than regular pasta.

Plus, it's packed with vitamins. The meatballs give you a good dose of protein, which is essential for, you know, living .

Give it a go, eh? This Pressure Cooker Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs is a belter. Trust me, once you've tried it, you'll be whipping it up every week. Have fun!