Imagine the rich aroma of slow-cooked tomatoes mingling with savory ground beef, garlic, and a sprinkle of herbs wafting through your kitchen. This is the magic of Instant Pot Bolognese, a dish that promises not just a meal but an experience that tickles your taste buds and warms your heart. crockpot Italian chicken recipe delicious Italian-inspired soup.
As you take that first spoonful, the layers of flavor unfold like a well-written novel, each bite revealing a new twist. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends, this dish steals the show every time. So grab your apron—let’s dive into this culinary adventure! For more inspiration, check out this Cozy White Bean Soup recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Instant Pot Bolognese is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The rich flavors marry beautifully in no time at all
- Its vibrant colors and delightful aroma will make everyone at the table salivate
- This recipe is versatile enough to serve over pasta, in lasagna, or as a savory filling for stuffed peppers
I still remember the first time I made this dish; my friends couldn’t believe something so delicious could come from such simple ingredients.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Choose lean or extra-lean ground beef for a balanced flavor without excess grease.
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Canned Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality crushed tomatoes; they’ll give your sauce that rich depth.
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Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness; sauté it until translucent for best results.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic is key here; it infuses the sauce with its bold flavor.
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Carrot: Grated carrot brings subtle sweetness and balances acidity from the tomatoes.
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Celery: Finely diced celery adds crunch and flavor complexity to the sauce.
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Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like basil and oregano elevates the dish’s aroma and taste.
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Salt and Pepper: Use to season according to taste; always start light—you can adjust later!
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Pasta (Spaghetti or Your Choice): Serve with your favorite pasta shape for optimal sauce clinging. quick and easy pasta dish.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan on top takes your Bolognese to gourmet status!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sautéing Aromatics: Start by selecting your Instant Pot and setting it to ‘Sauté’ mode. Add a splash of olive oil, then toss in chopped onions. Cook until they become translucent and release their sweet aroma.
Add Vegetables and Meat: Next, stir in grated carrots and diced celery until they soften slightly. Then add ground beef; cook until browned, breaking it apart as you go.
Add Garlic and Tomatoes: Once the meat is nicely browned, mix in minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in those crushed tomatoes along with Italian seasoning.
Pressure Cook Time!: Close the lid of your Instant Pot securely. Set it to high pressure for 10 minutes—this is where all those flavors meld together beautifully.
Release Pressure Safely: When cooking time ends, allow natural pressure release for 5 minutes before carefully switching to quick release.
Serve It Up!: Finally, give everything a good stir before serving atop al dente pasta. Top generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese!
Enjoy this comforting bowl of Instant Pot Bolognese—it may just become your go-to weeknight meal! perfect comfort food pairing.
You Must Know
- This Instant Pot Bolognese offers rich flavors, incredible aromas, and a comforting texture
- It’s perfect for weeknight dinners but fancy enough for special occasions
- The versatility allows you to serve it over pasta, polenta, or even zucchini noodles
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the meat in the Instant Pot, then add vegetables and spices before pressure cooking for maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap beef for turkey or add red wine for a richer depth and complexity in flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days. Reheat on low in a saucepan or microwave until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, let your Bolognese simmer longer whenever possible; it really deepens the taste
- Always season as you go to ensure a well-balanced dish
- If using fresh herbs, add them at the end to preserve their vibrant flavors
Cooking this recipe brings back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen, filled with laughter and the smell of her famous sauce simmering away.

FAQ
Can I use frozen ground beef for Instant Pot Bolognese?
For more inspiration, check out this Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs recipe.
Yes, but make sure to break it apart during cooking for even flavor distribution.
What side dishes pair well with Instant Pot Bolognese?
Garlic bread and a fresh garden salad complement this hearty dish perfectly.
How can I thicken my Bolognese sauce?
Let it simmer longer without the lid after pressure cooking to reduce excess liquid.
Instant Pot Bolognese
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Experience the delicious comfort of Instant Pot Bolognese, where tender ground beef melds beautifully with rich tomatoes and aromatic herbs. This quick and easy recipe transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet dish perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Serve it over your favorite pasta, and watch everyone at the table lick their plates clean!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 2 stalks celery, finely diced
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 oz spaghetti or preferred pasta
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Set your Instant Pot to 'Sauté' mode. Add olive oil and chopped onions; cook until translucent.
- Stir in grated carrots and diced celery; sauté until softened.
- Add ground beef; cook until browned, breaking it into pieces.
- Mix in minced garlic for about 30 seconds, then add crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning.
- Secure the lid and set to high pressure for 10 minutes.
- After cooking, allow natural pressure release for 5 minutes before switching to quick release.
- Stir well before serving over al dente pasta, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg



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