Oh, the allure of baked ziti! This is the dish that brings everyone to the table—comforting, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. With the Instant Pot, it’s a breeze, almost magical, like the way autumn leaves seem to dance in the wind. You’ll wonder why you ever made it any other way.
Steps
- Activate the sauté function on your Instant Pot and heat the olive oil. Add smashed garlic cloves and sauté for about one minute until they become golden.
- Pour in water and add salt to the pot, ensuring that any garlic sticking to the bottom is loosened. Add chopped baby spinach and whole wheat pasta, then stir to combine.
- Evenly pour marinara sauce over the uncooked pasta, ensuring it covers all the pasta without stirring. Secure the lid and cook on high pressure for seven minutes.
- Perform a quick release to open the lid, then stir the pasta. Add spoonfuls of ricotta, sprinkle grated Pecorino Romano, and spread mozzarella on top.
- Close the lid again for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt thoroughly. Serve immediately for optimal taste and texture.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2 cups chopped baby spinach
- 2 cups water
- 3/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 10 ounces whole wheat pasta, such as ziti or cavatappi (approximately 3 cups)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/2 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1 cup grated part-skim mozzarella cheese
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1808 kcal | Carbohydrates: 256 g | Protein: 96 g | Fat: 50 g | Saturated Fat: 20 g | Cholesterol: 118 mg | Sodium: 3422 mg | Fiber: 40 g | Sugar: 26 g
FAQ
- Can I use regular pasta instead of whole wheat pasta for this recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute regular pasta for whole wheat pasta. However, keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, and whole wheat pasta offers a bit more fiber and nutrients.
- Is it possible to add meat to the Instant Pot Baked Ziti?
- Absolutely! You can add a meat sauce or incorporate leftover chopped meatballs to increase the protein content of the dish.
- Can this recipe be made on the stovetop instead of using an Instant Pot?
- Yes, you can make this recipe on the stovetop. Use a large pot and follow the same instructions, cooking over medium-low heat for about 16 to 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- What are some tips for cooking one-pot pasta dishes?
- Ensure that the liquid covers the pasta entirely, and consume the dish immediately for an al dente texture, as the pasta will continue to absorb the sauce if left standing.
- What kind of cheese is used in this baked ziti recipe?
- This recipe includes three types of cheese: mozzarella, ricotta, and Pecorino Romano, which together contribute to the dish’s creamy and flavorful profile.
Tips
- Ensure that the sauce and water mixture completely covers the pasta in the Instant Pot to prevent any uncooked or unevenly cooked pieces.
- Serve the pasta immediately once it’s cooked to maintain an al dente texture, as it will continue to absorb the sauce if left in the pot.
- For a stovetop version, cook all ingredients in a large pot over medium-low heat for about 16 to 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, to ensure even cooking.
- If you’d like to add meat, consider using a meat sauce or incorporating some leftover chopped meatballs for added flavor and protein.
Equipment
- Instant Pot (Pressure Cooker) – This is essential for the one-pot cooking method described in the recipe.
