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Easiest Instant Pot Meatballs: A Recipe From A Pantry

Cooking can sometimes feel like an overwhelming task, especially on busy days when time is of the essence. However, the Instant Pot has revolutionised the way we prepare meals, offering speed and convenience without compromising on flavour. One of the simplest yet most rewarding dishes you can prepare in this versatile appliance is meatballs. Today, we’ll explore a delightful recipe for the easiest Instant Pot meatballs, showcasing how you can whip up a delicious meal with minimal effort.

The Appeal of Instant Pot Meatballs

Meatballs are a classic dish that can be enjoyed in a myriad of ways, from spaghetti and meatballs to meatball subs and even on their own as a snack. The Instant Pot not only cooks these succulent morsels quickly but also infuses them with flavour, making your meal preparation both efficient and satisfying.

Ingredients You Will Need

For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g minced beef (or a mixture of beef and pork for extra flavour)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably fresh)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but recommended for added flavour)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 2 tablespoons dried parsley)
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 250ml marinara sauce (or any sauce of your choice)

Instructions for Making Instant Pot Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the minced meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix the ingredients until they are well combined, but be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough meatballs.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

Once the mixture is ready, shape it into meatballs about 2.5cm in diameter. This size ensures they cook evenly and quickly in the Instant Pot. You can adjust the size according to your preference, but keep in mind that larger meatballs may require additional cooking time.

Step 3: Sauté the Meatballs

Turn on the Instant Pot and select the "Sauté" function. Once hot, lightly grease the pot with cooking oil. Carefully place the meatballs in the pot, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they get a lovely golden brown crust. You may need to do this in batches. Once browned, remove the meatballs and set them aside.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

With the meatballs removed, pour in the marinara sauce and use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This process, known as deglazing, adds amazing flavour to your sauce and prevents the "burn" warning from appearing during cooking.

Step 5: Cook the Meatballs

Return the meatballs to the pot, gently nestling them in the sauce. Seal the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to "Sealing." Select the "Pressure Cook" or "Manual" setting and set the timer for 8 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 5 minutes, then carefully turn the valve to "Venting" to release any remaining steam.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the steam has fully released, open the lid and prepare to be greeted by the tantalising aroma of your perfectly cooked meatballs. Serve them over pasta, in a sub, or with a side of crusty bread to mop up the sauce. Garnish with extra parsley or Parmesan if desired.

Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Meatballs

• Experiment with different herbs and spices to personalise the flavour profile of your meatballs.
• If you prefer a healthier version, consider using ground turkey or chicken.
• For added moisture and flavour, you can incorporate finely chopped vegetables such as onions or bell peppers into the meat mixture.

Conclusion

The easiest Instant Pot meatballs are not only a breeze to prepare but also an incredibly versatile dish that your family will love. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can enjoy a comforting meal that suits any occasion. So, the next time you’re short on time but craving a hearty home-cooked meal, grab your Instant Pot and give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!

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