One of my favorite things to make in the Instant Pot is pasta—it’s fast, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. This Instant Pot Creamy Ziti is a standout in my rotation: it’s rich, comforting, and comes together in just minutes. The actual pressure cooking time is only about 4 minutes, though the exact timing depends on the type of pasta you use.

Here’s the trick for getting pasta just right in the Instant Pot: take the al dente time listed on the package, cut it in half, then subtract 2 minutes. That formula gives you perfectly cooked pasta with a little bite. If you prefer your pasta softer, just subtract 1 minute instead. It’s a simple adjustment that makes a big difference in texture.

I also love how simple and pantry-friendly the ingredients are. The only canned item is crushed tomatoes, unless you’re using canned broth. For broth, I always reach for Better Than Bouillon—it’s easy to keep in the fridge and lets you mix exactly what you need with water. It adds great depth of flavor without opening a whole carton.

The remaining ingredients are straightforward: pasta, cream, garlic, dried spices, and a generous handful of Parmesan cheese to finish. It’s a ziti recipe at heart, but you can use any tube-shaped pasta you have on hand. I used rigatoni this time, and it worked beautifully—the ridges hold onto the creamy sauce in the most delicious way.

This dish is cozy, quick, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just want something comforting without the fuss, this creamy pasta is sure to hit the spot.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Creamy Ziti

• CHICKEN BROTH
• CREAM
• SALT
• PEPPER
• GARLIC
• ZITI PASTA OR OTHER TUBE-SHAPED PASTA
• CRUSHED TOMATOES
• OREGANO
• BASIL
• PARMESAN CHEESE
• FRESH BASIL, OPTIONAL FOR SERVING

Instructions for Instant Pot Creamy Ziti

Start by pouring the broth and cream into the Instant Pot insert. Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and garlic, giving the liquid a quick swirl to distribute the seasonings.

Next, add your pasta—but don’t stir! Simply spread it into an even layer across the bottom. Pour the crushed tomatoes evenly over the pasta, then sprinkle the oregano and basil right on top. Again, resist the urge to stir—this layering helps prevent the dreaded burn notice and ensures even cooking.

Secure the lid and set the valve to “Sealing.” Use the Manual or Pressure Cook setting and adjust the time based on your pasta. Here’s the trick: take the al dente time listed on the package, cut it in half, and subtract 2 minutes. For softer pasta, subtract just 1 minute instead.

Once the cooking cycle is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release to release any remaining steam. Open the lid and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

Serve the ziti hot, topped with extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of fresh chopped basil for a pop of color and flavor. This recipe makes 5–6 generous servings and is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While this recipe calls for ziti or rigatoni, any tube-shaped pasta like penne or macaroni will work. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta shape using the Instant Pot pasta rule.

How do I calculate the cooking time for pasta in the Instant Pot?
Take the al dente time listed on the package, cut it in half, and subtract 2 minutes. For softer pasta, subtract just 1 minute. This method helps prevent overcooking and keeps the texture just right.

Do I need to stir the ingredients before cooking?
No—don’t stir. Layering the ingredients (broth, cream, pasta, tomatoes, spices) helps prevent the burn notice and ensures even cooking.

Can I use jarred marinara or tomato sauce instead of crushed tomatoes?
Yes, but keep in mind that jarred sauces may contain added sugar or seasonings, which can slightly alter the flavor. Crushed tomatoes give a more neutral base for seasoning.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip any meat-based additions. The creamy tomato-Parmesan combo is still delicious on its own.

What kind of cream should I use?
Half and half works great, but you can also use heavy cream for extra richness or whole milk for a lighter version. Avoid low-fat milk—it may curdle under pressure.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

FOR MORE RECIPES LIKE THIS, TRY:

• No Boiling Baked Ziti
• One Pot Creamy Ziti
• Instant Pot Meaty Ziti with Beef & Sausage
• Skillet Beef Ziti

This recipe is adapted from Mel’s Kitchen Cafe.