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Instant Pot Baked Ziti
This Instant Pot Baked Ziti has the perfect blend of zesty Italian spices, ground turkey, hearty pasta and a generous helping of creamy cheeses that comes together in a pressure cooker with a stovetop option. It's a flavorful Italian-inspired comfort food classic that's bound to please your taste buds.
Prep Time 12 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 583 kcal
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 lb ground lean turkey , ground beef or Italian sausage [feel free to use vegan ground protein (such as Abbot's Butcher) of choice for a plant-based option]
- 1 medium yellow or white onion , diced
- 2 garlic cloves , minced or grated
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes . optional for a kick of spice
- salt and pepper to taste
- 28 oz canned unsalted diced tomatoes
- 2 cups marinara sauce , homemade or jarred
- 6 oz tomato paste
- 16 oz dry , uncooked gluten-free ziti or gluten-free penne, we like Jovial or feel free to use any pasta of choice if not gluten-free. For a grain-free option, we like Jovial Cassava Flour pasta, Cappello's Almond Flour Pasta, Shirataki / Konjac Noodles Kaizen Low Carb Pasta or Hearts of Palm Pasta.
- 2 cups water , plus more as needed to cover the pasta
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella . dairy-free or regular - we like Violife, Chao and Miyokos
- optional grated Parmesan for serving , dairy-free or regular - we like Violife, Chao and Miyokos
- optional 1/3 cup ricotta cheese for serving , dairy-free or regular - we like Kite-Hill
- Fresh chopped parsley for serving
Instructions
Instant Pot Instructions:
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Start off by turning the Instant Pot to SAUTE and add oil. Add the ground protein and crumble and brown for 1-2 minutes then add the onions, garlic and seasonings. Add salt and pepper to taste.
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Stir in the diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, tomato paste, pasta and water. Make sure the pasta is covered with enough liquid - add more as needed.
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Turn to PRESSURE COOK (or MANUAL) on high for 5 minutes. Allow to quick release after 4 minutes. Pasta should be al dente.
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Stir in the mozzarella and turn to SAUTE. Cook until the cheese is melted. Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan a dollop with ricotta and chopped parsley, if desired.
Stovetop Instructions:
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet or dutch oven over medium high heat. Add the ground protein and cook until browned, about 2-4 minutes, making sure to crumble as it cooks. Add the onions, garlic and seasonings. Add salt and pepper to taste.
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Stir in the diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, tomato paste, pasta and water. Make sure the pasta is covered with enough liquid - add more as needed.
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Bring to a boil and cover with lid. Reduce heat and simmer until pasta is cooked through, about 13-16 minutes.
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Remove from heat. Stir in mozzarella and cover until cheese has melted, about 1-2 minutes.
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Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan, a dollop with ricotta and chopped parsley, if desired
Recipe Notes
- How to store: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- How to freeze: If you want to freeze your Baked Ziti, portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
- How to reheat: To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it in the oven.
Nutrition Facts
Instant Pot Baked Ziti
Amount Per Serving (1 g)
Calories 583
Calories from Fat 135
% Daily Value*
Fat 15g23%
Saturated Fat 6g30%
Carbohydrates 73g24%
Fiber 6g24%
Sugar 12g13%
Protein 38g76%
* Nutrition facts are provided as a courtesy using the WPRM recipe calculator. It is best to make your own calculations to ensure accuracy. We expressly disclaim any and all liability of any kind with respect to any act or omission wholly or in part in reliance on anything contained in this website. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.