This Instant Pot Creamy Sausage Pasta is a tasty one-pot meal that’s quick and simple! With creamy sauce and savory sausage, it promises a cozy dinner in no time.
You have to love that it all cooks together in the pot, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, who can resist that creamy goodness? It’s like a warm hug on a plate! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the star of the dish! Use your favorite type, whether mild or spicy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken sausage works well too.
Pasta: I love using pasta shells because they catch the sauce perfectly! Elbow macaroni is just as good. If you need gluten-free, opt for your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Heavy Cream: For creaminess, heavy cream is ideal, but you can substitute half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version. Just remember, it may alter the flavor slightly!
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese adds richness and flavor. If you don’t have Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano or even a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep it creamy without the dairy.
How Do You Achieve a Creamy Sauce Without Overcooking the Pasta?
The trick for a creamy sauce lies in proper timing. First, make sure not to stir the pasta after adding the broth. This helps it cook evenly without clumping! After pressure cooking, stir gently to combine everything.
- Ensure the pasta is submerged in the broth to cook evenly.
- After pressure cooking, quick-release steam to prevent overcooking the pasta.
- Return to ‘Sauté’ mode when adding cream and cheese, stirring constantly until it’s perfectly creamy.
Enjoy making this delicious and simple meal!
How to Make Instant Pot Creamy Sausage Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage, casings removed (mild or spicy as preferred)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, if using lean sausage)
- 3 cups uncooked pasta shells or elbow macaroni
- 3 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
For The Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For The Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves (optional)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese and black pepper for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time in the Instant Pot. With a quick release, you’ll have a delightful meal ready in about 25 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
Set your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Once it’s hot, add olive oil if you’re using lean sausage. Now, add the Italian sausage and cook it for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s browned and cooked through. If there’s excess grease, feel free to drain it.
2. Add the Pasta:
Turn off ‘Sauté’ mode, and then add the uncooked pasta shells directly over the cooked sausage. Don’t stir just yet!
3. Pour in the Broth:
Carefully pour the chicken broth over the pasta, making sure the pasta is fully submerged. This will help it cook evenly. Remember, no stirring!
4. Season Up:
Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper on top of the pasta. This adds great flavor!
5. Pressure Cook:
Secure the Instant Pot lid, seal the vent, and set it to Manual/Pressure Cook on high pressure for 4 minutes. Go ahead and get excited!
6. Release the Pressure:
Once the cook time is up, perform a quick release by carefully turning the vent to let out the steam. Be cautious of the hot steam!
7. Stir It Up:
After you open the lid, gently stir the contents together to mix everything well.
8. Make It Creamy:
Set the pot back to ‘Sauté’ mode on low heat and add the heavy cream and shredded Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and beautifully combined.
9. Add the Spinach:
If you want to add some greens, throw in the fresh spinach leaves. Stir until they are wilted and incorporated into the pasta.
10. Taste and Adjust:
Now’s your chance to taste your creamy pasta! Feel free to adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or additional red pepper flakes if you like it spicier.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy sausage pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley, extra grated Parmesan, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Dive into this comforting dish!
Enjoy your deliciously creamy and hearty Instant Pot Creamy Sausage Pasta!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if needed, especially for leaner sausages.
What Pasta Can I Use Instead?
You can easily swap pasta shells or elbow macaroni for other types of pasta like penne or fusilli. Just keep in mind that cook times may vary slightly depending on the pasta shape.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop; you might want to add a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce!
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Yes, you can amp up the heat! Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or even a splash of hot sauce when cooking. Just remember to add a little at a time to find your desired spice level!