Sausage and Penne Pasta (in the Instant Pot)
Try this Sausage and Penne Pasta (in the Instant Pot) recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Sausage and Penne Pasta (in the Instant Pot) recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1 tablespoon italian seasoning
- 1-2 pounds italian sausage regular or spicy
- 3 cups (24 ounces) water
- 16-18 ounces penne pasta (the bag i used was 17.6
- 24 - 48 ounces pasta sauce i used two 24 ounce jars of pasta sauce
- 1 - 3 teaspoons red pepper flakes optional to add some more heat
- parmesan reggiano freshly grated
- Carbohydrate 2.95155000598823 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.338850000687473 g
- Fiber 0.508500009614735 g
- Protein 0.431550000875547 g
- Saturated Fat 0.14805000030037 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (5g)
- Sodium 1.21500000246504 mg
- Sugar 2.44304999637349 g
- Trans Fat 0.049410000100245 g
- Calories 14 calories
Step-by-step
- Select the “Sauté” mode on the Instant Pot.
- Remove the sausage meat from the casings and add to the heated pot.
- Break up the meat with a wooden spoon and cook until lightly browned.
- Pour the 3 cups of water over the Italian sausage.
- Add pasta over the sausage and water.
- If you like your pasta saucy pour both 24 ounce jars of pasta sauce over the pasta. If not, just use one jar of sauce.
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes over the pasta sauce.
- Do not stir.
- Cover and lock the lid.
- Select “Manual” mode and press the “-” button until it reads 6 minutes (for al dente) or 7 minutes. Also make sure set the top knob to “Sealing” and not “Venting”.
- The Instant Pot will beep at you when it finishes cooking the pasta and meatballs.
- To avoid over-cooking, move the top knob from “Sealing” to “Venting” to manually release the pressure. To avoid any splattering, you'll want to slowly release the pressure in spurts versus all at once.
- The pasta should be al dente. If it’s still a little crunchy you can set the Instant Pot to simmer and cook it for several more minutes until pasta is tender.
- Grate fresh Parmesan over the sausage and penne.
A Busy Mom's Guide to Effortless Weeknight Dinners: Instant Pot Sausage and Penne
Let's be honest, moms are superheroes. We juggle work, kids, school events, and a million other things, leaving precious little time for elaborate cooking. That’s why I'm constantly on the lookout for quick, easy, and delicious recipes that don't compromise on flavor. This Instant Pot Sausage and Penne Pasta is my absolute go-to for those busy weeknights when I need a hearty and satisfying meal on the table in a flash. It's a family favorite, and the best part? It's incredibly simple to make!
I remember the days when dinnertime felt like a marathon. Hours spent chopping, stirring, and cleaning, only to have the kids refuse to eat what I'd painstakingly prepared. The stress was immense. Then, I discovered the magic of the Instant Pot. It's a game changer! This one-pot wonder simplifies cooking immensely, allowing me to create restaurant-quality meals without spending half my evening in the kitchen. My kids love this Sausage and Penne—it's flavorful, comforting, and best of all, it’s ready in minutes! This recipe has saved me countless evenings. The convenience is unparalleled, freeing up time to focus on what matters most: my family.
Why this recipe works so well for busy families:
- One-pot wonder: Minimal cleanup is a huge plus after a long day. Just one pot to wash!
- Fast and easy: The Instant Pot does most of the work for you, cutting cooking time significantly.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level to your preference; add extra veggies for a healthier twist; change the pasta type—it's versatile and adaptable to whatever you have on hand.
- Kid-approved: My kids gobble this up, and it's a great way to sneak in some extra veggies if you're feeling ambitious.
- Budget-friendly: This recipe uses simple, affordable ingredients, making it a perfect choice for those watching their spending.
Tips and tricks for a perfect meal every time:
- Use quality sausage: The flavor of the sausage is key here. I like to use Italian sausage, but feel free to experiment with different types.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Aim for al dente pasta—it should be cooked through but still have a slight bite.
- Adjust the sauce: Use one or two jars depending on your preference for a saucier or drier dish. Experiment with different brands or even homemade sauce for unique flavors.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables such as mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Garnish generously: A sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese adds the perfect finishing touch.
Beyond the practical aspects, this recipe represents something more for me. It’s a symbol of simplifying life, of reclaiming precious time, and of enjoying delicious meals without the usual kitchen chaos. It's a testament to finding balance, and a reminder that even on the busiest days, we can still nourish our families with love and good food. So, the next time you're short on time but craving a warm, comforting, and flavorful meal, grab your Instant Pot and give this Sausage and Penne a try. You won't be disappointed. I promise.
This recipe is more than just a simple dinner; it's a small act of self-care in the midst of a busy life. It's a way to show myself and my family that even amidst the whirlwind of motherhood, I can still prioritize nourishment and deliciousness. And in the end, that's what really matters. It's the little moments of joy, the simple pleasures, and the delicious meals that make life worth living. So, ditch the takeout menus, embrace the Instant Pot, and savor the taste of a simpler, more fulfilling weeknight.
