Get ready to transform your weeknight dinner into a mouthwatering feast that's both incredibly delicious and ridiculously easy to make! This Instant Pot Kielbasa Pasta is the ultimate one-pot wonder that combines the smoky, savory flavors of Polish kielbasa with perfectly cooked pasta and a rich, tantalizing sauce. In just 15 minutes, you'll create a meal so satisfying that your family will be begging for seconds - and the best part? Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor await you!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Polish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb kielbasa, sliced
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients: Slice kielbasa into half-moon shapes, chop onion finely, mince garlic, and measure out all other ingredients.
- Turn Instant Pot to Sauté mode and add a small amount of olive oil. Sauté chopped onions for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent and slightly softened.
- Add minced garlic and sliced kielbasa to the pot. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and allow kielbasa to lightly brown.
- Add uncooked pasta, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir ingredients to ensure pasta is mostly submerged in liquid.
- Close Instant Pot lid, set valve to sealing position, and select Manual/Pressure Cook mode. Cook on high pressure for 4-5 minutes, depending on pasta type.
- Once cooking completes, perform a quick release of pressure to prevent pasta from overcooking.
- Open lid and stir pasta. If sauce seems too thin, use Sauté mode for 1-2 minutes to reduce liquid.
- Serve hot, garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and optional chopped parsley.
Tips
- Pasta Selection Matters: Choose pasta shapes that hold sauce well, like rotini, penne, or shells. Avoid delicate pasta that might turn mushy.
- Liquid Ratio is Key: Ensure your pasta is mostly submerged in liquid to guarantee even cooking and prevent burning.
- Quick Release is Crucial: Perform a quick pressure release immediately after cooking to prevent overcooking and maintain perfect pasta texture.
- Customize Your Flavor: Experiment with different types of kielbasa - beef, pork, or even spicy varieties can add unique twists to the dish.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh Parmesan and chopped parsley can elevate the presentation and add extra layers of flavor.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 65mg
