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Instant Pot Skinny Creamy Ziti

A comforting and healthier twist on traditional ziti, featuring creamy sauce and tender pasta, all made in an Instant Pot.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
  • 12 oz ziti pasta
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Optional for topping
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
Cheese and Vegetables
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese Can use reduced-fat for lower calories
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (halal-friendly)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach (or other veggies, as preferred)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Select the ‘Sauté’ function on your Instant Pot. Add the olive oil, then the diced onion, sauté until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic for an additional minute until fragrant.
  2. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, then add the ziti pasta. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the sauce.
  3. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Give it one last gentle stir.
Cooking
  1. Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ for 10 minutes. Ensure the valve is set to sealing.
  2. Once cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release by turning the valve to venting—watch out for hot steam!
Finishing Touches
  1. Open the lid, add the ricotta cheese and stir until combined. Fold in the fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt.
  2. Plate your ziti and generously sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Optionally, broil for 1-2 minutes for a golden crust.

Notes

Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and use microwave or stovetop with broth.