Nothing beats the comfort of a hearty, flavorful pasta dish that comes together quickly and packs a punch of smoky, tangy goodness. This Instant Pot BBQ Spaghetti Recipe is an absolute game-changer for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. It combines tender pulled pork with smoky BBQ sauce and classic spaghetti, bubbling together in the Instant Pot to create a rich, saucy meal that’s both indulgent and simple to prepare. Whether you’re a BBQ lover or a pasta fan, this dish will instantly become one of your favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for the Instant Pot BBQ Spaghetti Recipe is refreshingly straightforward. Each element plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and ensuring the perfect texture—from tender pork to just the right amount of sauce and seasoning.
- 1 pound chopped pulled pork: Adds juicy, smoky meatiness to the dish that melts into the sauce.
- 1 (26-oz) jar spaghetti sauce: Provides the tomato base with a hint of sweetness and herbs for depth.
- 1½ cups BBQ sauce: Brings smoky, tangy BBQ flavor that gives this pasta its unique personality.
- 12-oz spaghetti (uncooked): The classic pasta that soaks up all the saucy goodness perfectly.
- 1½ cups chicken broth or water: Ensures the pasta cooks perfectly in the Instant Pot without drying out.
- 2 Tbsp BBQ seasoning: Enhances the overall BBQ flavor with a blend of spices that ties everything together.
How to Make Instant Pot BBQ Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Sauces and Pulled Pork
Start by adding your chopped pulled pork, the jar of spaghetti sauce, and the BBQ sauce directly into the Instant Pot. These ingredients create a rich, flavorful base that will take your spaghetti to the next level. The combination of traditional spaghetti sauce and BBQ sauce gives a perfect balance of tang and sweetness, setting the stage for a meal packed with bold flavors.
Step 2: Add the Spaghetti
Next, break your spaghetti in half and lay it right on top of the pork and sauce mixture in the pot. Breaking the noodles helps them cook evenly and fit nicely into the Instant Pot. No stirring just yet—layering the pasta on top keeps it from sticking to the bottom early on and ensures an even cook.
Step 3: Pour in Broth and Season
Pour 1½ cups of chicken broth (or water if you prefer) over the spaghetti, then sprinkle the BBQ seasoning evenly across the top. Give everything a gentle stir to mix the seasoning into the liquids and make sure the pasta is submerged. This step is vital because the pasta needs to be covered to cook perfectly without drying out or sticking.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Seal the Instant Pot lid, lock it, and select the Manual or High Pressure setting. Set the timer for 9 minutes and let the magic happen. The pressure cooker will work fast, infusing the pasta with all the smoky, savory flavors while cooking it just right.
Step 5: Quick Release and Stir
As soon as the cooking cycle finishes, perform a quick release to let out the steam safely. Open the lid and give the pasta a thorough stir, breaking up any clumps and mixing the pulled pork throughout. You’ll immediately notice the rich BBQ aroma and the creamy texture developed from the combined sauces and perfectly cooked noodles.
How to Serve Instant Pot BBQ Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
Add fresh, vibrant touches by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top. For a little extra zing, a handful of shredded sharp cheddar or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can amp up the BBQ vibes and add color contrast that makes the dish as beautiful as it is delicious.
Side Dishes
This BBQ spaghetti pairs beautifully with classic sides like a crisp green salad, creamy coleslaw, or buttery cornbread. Each of these adds a different texture or brightness to balance the richness of the BBQ sauce and pulled pork.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your Instant Pot BBQ Spaghetti Recipe to the next level by serving it in individual mini cast iron skillets or casserole dishes for insta-worthy presentation. You could also turn it into a loaded BBQ spaghetti bake topped with extra cheese and baked until bubbly and golden brown.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover BBQ spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors develop beautifully overnight, making it an even tastier next-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to keep this meal longer, freezing works well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water or broth to rehydrate the pasta and keep the sauce nice and saucy. Stir frequently to warm evenly and avoid drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat instead of pulled pork?
Absolutely! Pulled chicken, shredded beef, or even ground beef can be swapped in. Just make sure the meat is cooked and tender before adding it to the Instant Pot for the best texture.
What if I don’t have BBQ seasoning? What can I use instead?
If you’re missing BBQ seasoning, try a blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and a touch of brown sugar. This combo mimics that classic smoky, sweet flavor perfectly.
Can I make this recipe with gluten-free pasta?
Yes! Just substitute the spaghetti with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the brand, so watch for doneness.
Is it okay to use water instead of chicken broth?
Water works fine if you don’t have chicken broth handy, but broth adds more depth and richness to the dish. If using water, consider boosting the seasoning a little to compensate.
How thick is the sauce in this recipe? Can I make it thicker?
The sauce is nicely saucy but not too thick—perfect for coating the spaghetti well. If you want a thicker sauce, after cooking, you can use the sauté function on the Instant Pot to simmer and reduce the liquid slightly.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot BBQ Spaghetti Recipe is one of those magical dishes that brings together the best of BBQ and pasta, making weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers extra special with minimal effort. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s become a favorite go-to meal for busy days when you want maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Grab your Instant Pot and get ready to delight your taste buds with this cozy, smoky twist on classic spaghetti.
Print
Instant Pot BBQ Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Total Time: 14 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Instant Pot BBQ Spaghetti recipe combines tender pulled pork, tangy BBQ sauce, and classic spaghetti for a quick, flavorful twist on traditional spaghetti. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it’s easy to prepare, cooks in under 15 minutes, and offers a deliciously smoky and saucy pasta dish all made in one pot.
Ingredients
Meat and Sauces
- 1 pound chopped pulled pork
- 1 (26-oz) jar spaghetti sauce
- 1½ cups BBQ sauce
Pasta and Liquids
- 12 oz spaghetti (uncooked)
- 1½ cups chicken broth or water
Seasoning
- 2 Tbsp BBQ seasoning
Instructions
- Combine Pork and Sauces. Add the chopped pulled pork, jar of spaghetti sauce, and BBQ sauce into the Instant Pot bowl. Mix gently to combine the ingredients evenly.
- Add Spaghetti. Break the uncooked spaghetti in half and lay it over the pork and sauce mixture in the Instant Pot. This helps the pasta fit and cook evenly.
- Add Liquid and Seasoning. Pour in the chicken broth or water, then sprinkle the BBQ seasoning evenly over the pasta. Stir gently to ensure the spaghetti is fully submerged beneath the liquid level to cook properly.
- Pressure Cook. Close the Instant Pot lid securely and lock it into place. Select the Manual or High Pressure cooking setting and set the timer for 9 minutes to cook the pasta and meld the flavors.
- Release Pressure and Stir. When cooking is complete, perform a quick pressure release carefully. Open the lid and stir the spaghetti thoroughly to break up any clumps of pasta and evenly distribute the sauce with the pork.
Notes
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, set the Instant Pot to sauté mode after cooking and simmer until desired consistency is reached.
- You can substitute pulled pork with pulled chicken for a different flavor.
- Adjust BBQ seasoning to taste depending on your preferred spice level.
- Ensure spaghetti is fully covered with liquid to prevent undercooked pasta.
- Use gluten-free spaghetti to make this recipe gluten-free.
