Are you looking for a delicious and easy recipe to make in your Instant Pot? Look no further than skinnytaste instant pot baked ziti! This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for a cozy night in or for impressing guests at a dinner party. Plus, with our two different variations, you can mix it up and try something new!
Ingredients:
Variation 1:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
Variation 2:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
- For both variations, add the pasta, ground meat, onion, garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, crushed tomatoes, and water to the Instant Pot. Stir well.
- Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual, high pressure for 6 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
- Stir in the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs for each variation. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Set the Instant Pot to broil and broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Serve and enjoy!
Nutritional Information:
Both variations of skinnytaste instant pot baked ziti yield approximately 8 servings. The nutritional information per serving for variation 1 is:
- Calories: 475
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 81mg
- Sodium: 749mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 10g
The nutritional information per serving for variation 2 is:
- Calories: 457
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 86mg
- Sodium: 675mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 10g
Cooking Time:
The total cooking time for skinnytaste instant pot baked ziti is approximately 30 minutes, including prep time and time for the Instant Pot to come to pressure.
Equipment:
- Instant Pot
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your skinnytaste instant pot baked ziti with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. It also pairs well with a glass of red wine.
Variations:
Try using different types of pasta, such as penne or rigatoni, for a twist on the classic ziti. You can also use ground chicken instead of turkey or beef for a leaner option.
Substitutions:
If you don’t have ricotta cheese on hand, you can substitute cottage cheese. You can also use any type of cheese you prefer for the topping, such as cheddar or provolone.
Storage:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Tips:
- Make sure to stir the pasta and other ingredients well before cooking to prevent any clumps or sticking.
- Use lean ground meat to reduce the fat content of the dish.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some chopped jalapenos.
Notes:
Skinnytaste instant pot baked ziti is a great dish to make ahead of time for meal prep or for feeding a crowd. It also freezes well, so you can make a big batch and save some for later.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can substitute gluten-free pasta for the ziti to make this dish gluten-free.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh herbs instead of dried. Just double the amount called for in the recipe.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker by following the same instructions and cooking on low for 6-8 hours.
Personal Thoughts:
I absolutely love this skinnytaste instant pot baked ziti recipe! It’s so easy to make and packed full of flavor. I love that there are two different variations to choose from, so you can mix it up and try something new. Plus, it’s a great way to get in some extra protein and veggies. I highly recommend giving this recipe a try!