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Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Alyssa

Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

Delicious Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta: a quick, one-pot meal with rich tomato sauce, creamy texture, and tender pasta for an easy dinner.
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Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz penne pasta: Penne is ideal for holding onto the sauce but you can also use rotini or ziti for a delightful twist.
  • 1 1/4 cups chicken broth: Choosing a low-sodium variety can enhance the flavors without overwhelming the dish.
  • 1 1/4 cups heavy cream: This ingredient adds richness and creaminess to the sauce; you can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup red pasta or marinara sauce: This is the backbone of the flavor; use a quality brand or homemade sauce for the best results.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder: Garlic powder infuses savory taste throughout the dish; fresh garlic can also be used for a stronger flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp salt: Adjust to taste especially considering the saltiness of your chicken broth.
  • 3/4 tsp dried basil: Adds a lovely herbal note; feel free to use fresh basil for a more vibrant flavor.
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes: This provides a slight kick; you can adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Instant Pot: Start by placing 8 oz of penne pasta into your Instant Pot. Ensure the pasta is evenly spread at the bottom.
  2. Add liquids: Pour 1 1/4 cups of chicken broth and 1 1/4 cups of heavy cream over the pasta, pressing the noodles down gently to ensure they are submerged in the liquids.
  3. Incorporate the sauce and spices: Spoon 1 cup of red pasta or marinara sauce on top without stirring. Then, sprinkle 1 tsp of garlic powder, 1/2 tsp of salt, 3/4 tsp of dried basil, and 1/4 tsp of red pepper flakes over the sauce.
  4. Cook the pasta: Securely close the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
  5. Release pressure: Once the cooking time is completed, perform a quick release to let the steam escape.
  6. Final touches: Carefully open the lid and stir the mixture until well combined. Let it sit for 5-8 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
  7. Serve: Top your pasta with shredded Parmesan cheese and fresh basil before serving. This adds a perfect finishing touch and balances the flavors.