Instant Pot Baked Ziti – an exceptionally easy and incredibly delicious pasta dish featuring savory Italian sausage, a rich tomato sauce, and creamy ricotta cheese. This delightful, cheesy comfort food is cooked entirely in your pressure cooker, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Elevate your meal by serving this satisfying pasta dish with a side of homemade One-Hour Skillet Focaccia or classic Cheesy Garlic Bread to complete your Italian-inspired feast.

Instant Pot Baked Ziti: The Ultimate One-Pot Comfort Meal

When the craving for a hearty, comforting meal strikes, or you simply need a no-fuss dinner that promises to be a crowd-pleaser, this Instant Pot Baked Ziti is your perfect solution. It’s ideal for a quick pasta night at home, offering a super easy preparation process and an explosion of robust Italian flavors. Once you experience the simplicity and deliciousness of this recipe, it’s sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation.

This versatile pasta dish is easily customizable to suit your preferences. Whether you opt for a different type of meat or remove it entirely for a satisfying vegetarian option, the core components of creamy ricotta and a generous topping of melted cheese remain essential. This Instant Pot Baked Ziti is more than just a meal; it’s a guaranteed hit that brings the rich, cheesy goodness of a classic baked ziti to your table with minimal effort.

Why Choose Instant Pot Baked Ziti for Your Next Dinner?

The Instant Pot has revolutionized home cooking, and this baked ziti recipe perfectly showcases its incredible capabilities. Ditching multiple pots and lengthy oven times, this recipe transforms a classic Italian-American favorite into a streamlined, one-pot wonder. Here’s why cooking baked ziti in your Instant Pot is a game-changer:

• Unbeatable Speed: Traditional baked ziti can take over an hour, including simmering sauce and baking. Our Instant Pot version slashes cooking time dramatically, bringing a delicious meal to your table in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
• One-Pot Convenience: Say goodbye to a sink full of dishes! Everything from browning the sausage to cooking the pasta and simmering the sauce happens in a single pot. This means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal.
• Perfectly Cooked Pasta Every Time: The pressure cooker ensures your ziti pasta cooks evenly and perfectly al dente, absorbing all the rich flavors of the sauce without becoming mushy. No more guessing or multiple taste tests!
• Deep, Developed Flavors: The high-pressure environment of the Instant Pot infuses the pasta and sausage with the rich, aromatic flavors of the tomatoes, herbs, and spices, creating a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering all day.
• Effortless Comfort Food: This recipe brings all the comforting layers of a baked ziti—hearty pasta, savory meat, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese—with a fraction of the hands-on time and effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you simply crave a satisfying meal without the fuss.

With the Instant Pot, you get to enjoy all the creamy, cheesy goodness of baked ziti without the usual kitchen chaos. It’s an innovative approach to a timeless classic that delivers on taste and convenience.

Essential Ingredients for Instant Pot Baked Ziti

Crafting the perfect Instant Pot Baked Ziti starts with a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients that build a robust flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting Italian-American staple, along with a few tips for selection:

• Ziti Pasta: The quintessential choice for baked ziti, its tube shape is ideal for capturing the rich sauce and creamy cheese. Ensure you have a full pound for a generous serving.
• Italian Sausage: Whether you prefer mild or spicy, Italian sausage adds a significant depth of flavor. We recommend removing the casings for easier browning and breaking it into crumbles.
• Olive Oil: A foundational ingredient for sautéing, good quality olive oil helps develop the initial flavors of the onion and garlic.
• Onion: One medium onion, finely chopped, provides a sweet and savory base for the sauce.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is crucial for that authentic Italian aroma and taste.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme, this seasoning brings a classic Italian profile to your dish.
• Dried Oregano: A little extra oregano amplifies the herbal notes, complementing the tomato sauce beautifully.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors in the dish. Start with the recommended amounts and adjust to your taste.
• Crushed Tomatoes: The backbone of our sauce, crushed tomatoes provide a smooth, rich tomato base.
• Diced Tomatoes (with juices): These add texture and a brighter tomato flavor to the sauce, ensuring it’s not too thick.
• Tomato Paste: A concentrated burst of tomato flavor, tomato paste adds depth and richness to the sauce, making it taste like it’s simmered all day.
• Water: Crucial for cooking the pasta under pressure and preventing a “burn” notice.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: For that irresistible gooey, stretchy, and cheesy topping. Feel free to use a blend of mozzarella and provolone for extra flavor.
• Ricotta Cheese: Adds a creamy, delicate texture and a signature richness that defines baked ziti.
• Fresh Basil or Parsley (for garnish): Optional but highly recommended for a fresh finish and a pop of color.

Gathering these ingredients beforehand ensures a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience, leading to a truly delicious Instant Pot Baked Ziti.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Instant Pot Baked Ziti

Follow these detailed steps to create a mouthwatering Instant Pot Baked Ziti with ease. The Instant Pot makes this classic dish incredibly simple, from sautéing to pressure cooking, all in one pot.

1. Prepare Your Instant Pot: Ensure the stainless steel insert is properly placed in your Instant Pot. This is a crucial first step for all Instant Pot recipes.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Press the “Sauté” setting on your Instant Pot. Add olive oil to the hot insert. Once shimmering, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Toast Spices: Stir in the Italian seasoning and dried oregano with the sautéed aromatics. Continue to sauté for another minute, stirring constantly. Sautéing the spices at this stage helps to “activate” their essential oils, making them more fragrant and enhancing the overall flavor of your dish.
4. Brown the Italian Sausage: Add the Italian sausage (with casings removed, if applicable) to the pot. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, break the sausage into smaller crumbles as it cooks. Brown the sausage until it’s no longer pink and develops a nice browned crust on the bottom of the Instant Pot insert. This browning adds significant flavor, known as fond.
5. Deglaze the Pot: Press the “Cancel/Off” button to stop the Sauté function. Pour in about ¼ cup of water or chicken broth. Using a wooden spoon, carefully scrape all the browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the insert. This step is vital not only for adding rich flavor to your sauce but also to prevent the “Burn” message from appearing during pressure cooking.
6. Add Pasta and Water: Add the ziti pasta to the Instant Pot. Pour in the remaining 2 cups of water. Stir everything together gently, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid.
7. Layer Tomato Ingredients (DO NOT STIR): Carefully pour the diced tomatoes (with their juices) over the pasta layer. Spoon the tomato paste on top, and then add the crushed tomatoes. It is very important at this stage to NOT STIR the contents of the pot. Layering the ingredients this way helps prevent the thicker tomato products from settling at the bottom and potentially causing a “Burn” notice.
8. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, ensuring it’s properly sealed. Switch the sealing valve to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and set the timer for 6 minutes. The Instant Pot will take some time to come to pressure before the cooking countdown begins.
9. Quick Release Pressure: Once the cooking cycle is complete, the Instant Pot will beep. Immediately press the “Cancel/Off” button. Carefully switch the sealing valve to the “Venting” position to perform a Quick Release (QR) of the pressure. Be cautious as hot steam will escape. Once the float valve drops, you can safely open the lid, tilting it away from your face to avoid any remaining steam.
10. Incorporate Cheeses: Stir the pasta thoroughly to combine all the ingredients. Add the shredded mozzarella cheese and ricotta cheese to the hot pasta. Stir until both cheeses are fully melted and well incorporated, creating a creamy, cheesy sauce.
11. Season and Serve: Season the baked ziti with salt and black pepper to taste. Dish out generous portions and garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil, and an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Baked Ziti

Achieving the perfect Instant Pot Baked Ziti is simple when you follow a few key tips. These insights will help you prevent common pressure cooking mishaps and ensure your dish is flavorful and perfectly textured every time.

• Deglaze Thoroughly: After browning the sausage, always scrape the bottom of the Instant Pot liner meticulously with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula. This removes any stuck-on bits (fond) which are packed with flavor and, more importantly, prevent the dreaded “Burn” message during pressure cooking.
• Layer, Don’t Stir (for Tomatoes): When adding the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste, layer them on top of the pasta and liquid. Do not stir them into the pasta. Thicker sauces and tomato products can settle at the bottom and scorch, triggering a “Burn” warning. The pressure cooking process will naturally mix them.
• Liquid Ratios are Key: For perfectly cooked pasta in the Instant Pot, the liquid-to-pasta ratio is crucial. This recipe uses the ideal amount to cook the ziti without making it mushy or leaving it undercooked. Do not add extra water unless specified.
• Quick Release is a Must: Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release (QR) of the pressure. This stops the cooking process immediately, preventing the pasta from overcooking and becoming soft.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Don’t forget to taste and adjust the salt and pepper after adding the cheeses. The flavors will have melded during cooking, but a final seasoning can truly bring the dish to life.
• Use Quality Cheeses: For the best flavor and melt, use good quality shredded mozzarella and creamy ricotta. Freshly grated mozzarella often melts better than pre-shredded varieties, which can sometimes contain anti-caking agents.
• Customize Your Sausage: If you enjoy a kick, opt for spicy Italian sausage. For a milder flavor, mild Italian sausage works wonderfully. You can also mix half mild and half spicy for a balanced heat.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll consistently create a delicious, perfectly cooked Instant Pot Baked Ziti that everyone will love.

Serving Suggestions to Complement Your Ziti

Instant Pot Baked Ziti is a hearty and satisfying meal on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes can transform it into an even more complete and delightful dining experience. Here are some fantastic suggestions:

• Garlic Bread or Focaccia: A classic pairing! Crusty garlic bread or a soft, aromatic focaccia is perfect for soaking up every last bit of that rich tomato and cheese sauce. Try a homemade One-Hour Skillet Focaccia or our Cheesy Garlic Bread for an extra special touch.
• Fresh Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. Think mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a simple lemon-herb dressing.
• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, green beans, or zucchini make excellent vegetable sides. A light roasting with olive oil, salt, and pepper can bring out their natural sweetness.
• Caprese Salad: A vibrant Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze provides a fresh, bright complement.
• Simple Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach with garlic and a squeeze of lemon juice is a healthy and flavorful addition that won’t overpower the main dish.

Choose one or two of these sides to create a well-rounded and delicious Italian-inspired meal that your family and friends will adore.

Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Baked Ziti

Got questions about making Instant Pot Baked Ziti? We’ve got answers to help you master this quick and delicious dish.

Can I freeze this Instant Pot Baked Ziti?

Absolutely! This Instant Pot Baked Ziti freezes beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or future busy nights. To freeze, allow the cooked ziti to cool completely to room temperature. Transfer it to freezer-safe containers or airtight bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, it’s best to add the ricotta cheese fresh, right before serving, as ricotta can sometimes change texture after freezing and thawing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the oven until heated through.

Can I use jarred pasta sauce in this recipe?

Yes, you certainly can! While this recipe uses crushed and diced tomatoes for a fresh, homemade taste, you can easily substitute your favorite jarred pasta sauce. Just ensure you use approximately 24-28 ounces (about one standard large jar) to maintain the correct liquid ratio for cooking the pasta in the Instant Pot. If your jarred sauce is already heavily seasoned, you may want to slightly reduce the amount of Italian seasoning and dried oregano you add to avoid over-seasoning. Always taste and adjust as needed!

Can I use other pasta shapes instead of ziti?

Yes, you can! While ziti is traditional, other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni work well in this recipe. The key is to select a pasta that has a similar cooking time and shape to ziti (tube-shaped pasta holds sauce and cheese beautifully). For different pasta shapes, you might need to slightly adjust the pressure cooking time. A general rule for Instant Pot pasta is to divide the package’s suggested stovetop cooking time by two, then subtract 1-2 minutes. So, if a pasta calls for 10-12 minutes on the stove, try 5-6 minutes in the Instant Pot.

Can I make this baked ziti vegetarian?

Definitely! You can easily make this Instant Pot Baked Ziti a delightful vegetarian meal by omitting the Italian sausage. To add substance and flavor, consider incorporating a variety of vegetables during the sauté stage. Sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, chopped zucchini, or a handful of fresh spinach (stirred in after pressure cooking) would be excellent additions. You could also use a plant-based ground “meat” substitute if you still want a similar texture.

What if I get a “Burn” message on my Instant Pot?

The “Burn” message usually means there’s something stuck to the bottom of the pot, preventing even heating. This is most often caused by thick sauces or tomato products. To avoid this, ensure you thoroughly deglaze the pot after browning the sausage (scraping all browned bits) and remember to layer the tomato products on top of the pasta and liquid without stirring them in before pressure cooking. If you do get a burn message, release the pressure, carefully remove the inner pot, and check the bottom. If it’s just a little bit, you can often salvage the dish by transferring it to a clean pot and continuing, but sometimes a small amount of liquid needs to be added to prevent it from happening again.

Delicious Variations to Personalize Your Instant Pot Baked Ziti

One of the best things about this Instant Pot Baked Ziti recipe is its incredible versatility. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients based on your preferences or what you have available in your pantry. Here are some exciting variations to try:

• Meat Variations:

  Instead of Italian sausage, you have several delicious options to customize the meatiness of your baked ziti:

  • Ground Beef: Lean or regular ground beef works wonderfully. Brown it and season it with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper for a classic flavor profile.
  • Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter alternative, ground turkey or chicken can be used. Be sure to season it well, as these meats are typically milder in flavor.
  • Combination of Meats: Feel free to use a blend of ground beef and Italian sausage for a more complex and rich flavor.

• Vegetarian Options (No Meat):

  If you prefer a meat-free meal, this dish is easily adaptable. Simply skip the meat entirely and bulk up the dish with more vegetables:

  • Spinach: Stir in a few handfuls of fresh spinach after the pressure cooking cycle is complete and before adding the cheeses. The residual heat will wilt it perfectly.
  • Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the onion and garlic for an earthy depth.
  • Bell Peppers: Diced bell peppers (any color) add sweetness, crunch, and vibrant color when sautéed with the aromatics.
  • Zucchini: Chopped zucchini can be added with the onions for a tender, fresh vegetable component.
  • Eggplant: Roasted or sautéed diced eggplant can add a lovely texture and robust flavor to a vegetarian ziti.

• Pasta Alternatives:

  While ziti is traditional, you can substitute it with other similar pasta shapes that hold up well to pressure cooking and sauce:

  • Penne: A popular choice, penne pasta has a similar tube shape and texture to ziti.
  • Rigatoni: Larger ribbed tubes of rigatoni are excellent for capturing hearty sauces.
  • Macaroni Pasta: For a twist, elbow macaroni can make for a delicious and kid-friendly baked mac and cheese hybrid.
  • Bow Tie Pasta (Farfalle): The unique shape of bow tie pasta also works well and adds visual appeal.

• Cheese Variations:

  Beyond mozzarella and ricotta, consider adding a layer of provolone for extra meltiness or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese for a sharper, saltier finish after cooking.

Don’t be afraid to get creative! These variations ensure that your Instant Pot Baked Ziti can be a new experience every time you make it, always delivering that comforting, cheesy goodness.

Storage and Reheating Leftovers

One of the best things about Instant Pot Baked Ziti is how well it stores, making it perfect for meal prepping or enjoying delicious leftovers throughout the week. Here’s how to handle your ziti once it’s cooked:

Storing Leftovers:

Allow the baked ziti to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Transfer it to airtight containers. Properly stored, it will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. This is ideal for packed lunches or quick dinners during the week.

Freezing Instructions:

If you plan to freeze portions, it’s best to do so without the ricotta cheese mixed in, as ricotta can sometimes become grainy after freezing and thawing. However, if you’ve already mixed it in, it will still be delicious!

To freeze, portion the cooled ziti into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Ensure there is as little air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw frozen ziti overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Tips:

• Microwave: For individual servings, reheat in the microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until thoroughly heated.
• Stovetop: For larger portions, transfer the ziti to a large pot or skillet. Add a splash of water or chicken broth (1-2 tablespoons per serving) to prevent drying. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• Oven: If you want to recreate that “baked” experience, transfer the ziti to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. For a crisper top, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes. If you skipped the ricotta before freezing, stir it in after reheating and before serving.

Enjoying your Instant Pot Baked Ziti for days to come has never been easier!

More Delicious Instant Pot Pasta Recipes

If you loved this Instant Pot Baked Ziti, you’re in for a treat! The Instant Pot is fantastic for making quick and flavorful pasta dishes. Here are a few more recipes you might enjoy:

• Instant Pot Spaghetti: A classic made effortlessly in your pressure cooker.
• Instant Pot Pasta Carbonara: Creamy, rich, and ready in no time.
• Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta: A flavorful and comforting meal inspired by Tuscan cuisine.
• Instant Pot Chili Mac: A hearty fusion of chili and macaroni.

New to pressure cooking? Check out my Instant Pot Guide for Beginners, packed with all the essential information you need to get comfortable with your appliance! And if you ever encounter the dreaded “BURN” message on your Instant Pot, don’t panic! Read my detailed Instant Pot Burn Message post to understand why it happens and how to easily resolve it.

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This recipe was originally published on August 20th, 2018 and thoroughly updated on November 17th, 2019 to provide enhanced details and clarity.