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If you are searching for a comforting, creamy, and utterly delicious pasta dish that comes together quickly, the Instant Pot Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe combines tender spaghetti noodles cooked perfectly in a rich garlic-infused chicken broth, then enveloped in a luscious blend of butter, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese. Each forkful bursts with flavor and cheesy goodness, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner or anytime treat that’s sure to impress your family or friends without spending hours in the kitchen.

Instant Pot Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Instant Pot Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti Recipe calls for simple yet essential ingredients that work harmoniously to create layers of flavor, a velvety texture, and an inviting golden hue. Each component plays its part in making the dish irresistible and easy.

16 oz spaghetti noodles (broken in half): Breaking the noodles helps them cook evenly and fit comfortably in the Instant Pot.
4 cups of chicken broth: Provides a savory, rich base that infuses the noodles while cooking.
1 1/3 cups heavy whipping cream: Adds irresistible creaminess and depth to the sauce after cooking.
2 tsp garlic paste: Delivers concentrated garlic flavor without the hassle of mincing fresh cloves.
1 stick unsalted butter (cut into small cubes): Melts smoothly into the pasta for a silky, buttery finish.
2 tsp dried parsley: Adds subtle herbal notes and a touch of color to brighten the dish.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors perfectly.
1 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese: Provides the signature cheesy, nutty flavor and creamy texture that makes this dish stand out.
Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of green and mild herbaceousness.

How to Make Instant Pot Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Base and Cook the Spaghetti

Start by pouring the chicken broth into your Instant Pot, then add the garlic paste, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir briefly to combine and infuse your broth with garlic and herbs. Next, stir in the broken spaghetti noodles, making sure they are submerged evenly but avoid stirring too vigorously to prevent clumping. Seal the Instant Pot and select the pressure cook setting on high for 6 minutes. It will take about 6 to 7 minutes to reach pressure before cooking begins. After cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally for 6 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release to open the lid.

Step 2: Enrich with Butter, Cream, and Cheese

After opening your Instant Pot, turn off the pressure cooking mode and switch to sauté. Add the butter cubes directly to the hot noodles and gently stir as the butter melts, blending with the garlic-spiced broth. Next, pour in the heavy whipping cream and sprinkle in the grated parmesan cheese. Stir everything continuously until the cheese melts completely and coats every strand of spaghetti, creating a creamy, cheesy sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. Finally, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a welcoming touch of color and flavor before serving.

How to Serve Instant Pot Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti Recipe

Garnishes

While the chopped parsley already adds a pop of freshness, consider adding a few extras like a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, or a handful of toasted pine nuts for an unexpected, delightful crunch. A dusting of extra parmesan never hurts either, delivering even more cheesy richness.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp, vibrant sides that balance its creamy richness. A simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts complements the garlic butter spaghetti beautifully. For bread lovers, warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette is excellent for mopping up the extra sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn this comforting pasta into a showstopper by serving it in warm, shallow bowls to showcase its glossy, cheesy sauce. Add a sprig of fresh parsley or basil for elegance. For a cozy family-style meal, place it in a cast-iron skillet right on the table, inviting everyone to dig in together. You can even top it with grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms to customize it for your taste buds!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container within two hours of cooking to preserve freshness. The Instant Pot Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti Recipe keeps well for up to 3 days and remains delicious, though the sauce may thicken slightly, so a little extra cream or broth can be added when reheating.

Freezing

You can freeze this spaghetti in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Because creamy pasta sauces can sometimes change texture when frozen, it’s best to add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to bring back that velvety consistency.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the spaghetti gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a small amount of milk, cream, or broth to loosen the sauce and keep it luscious. Avoid overheating to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta besides spaghetti?

Absolutely! While this recipe is designed for spaghetti, you can substitute other long noodles like linguine or fettuccine. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed, as different pasta shapes may cook faster or slower.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. The garlic, butter, cream, and parmesan will still deliver plenty of flavor to make it satisfying without the meat base.

Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic paste?

Fresh garlic works beautifully in this recipe. Use 3 to 4 finely minced cloves to replace the 2 teaspoons of garlic paste. Sauté briefly with the butter at the end to mellow out the sharpness if desired.

What kind of parmesan cheese is best?

Freshly grated parmesan from a block yields the best flavor and texture. Pre-grated varieties can be used in a pinch but may not melt as smoothly or have the same intense taste.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even cooked sausage make excellent additions. Add them just before serving to keep them tender and flavorful alongside the creamy spaghetti.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Instant Pot Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti Recipe a try soon—it’s a simple, soul-satisfying dish that turns pantry staples into a creamy, cheesy masterpiece. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or feeding friends, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that comes together quickly and tastes like you spent hours perfecting it. Your Instant Pot is about to become your new best friend in creating comfort food magic!