Instant Pot Meaty Mushroom Ragu Recipe

There’s something magical about cozying up with a hearty bowl of pasta, and this Instant Pot ragu is like a warm hug that you didn’t know you needed today. Let’s embark on this culinary journey, packed with flavor bombs like cremini mushrooms and a dash of thyme—trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Instant Pot Meaty Mushroom Ragu is a hearty dish I love to make, combining the richness of ground beef with the earthy flavors of cremini mushrooms. I think the finely grated carrot adds a subtle sweetness, while the crushed tomatoes create a velvety sauce.

A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese makes it irresistible.

Instant Pot Meaty Mushroom Ragu Recipe Ingredients

• Olive oil: Healthy fats, aids in cooking, adds smoothness.
• Ground beef or pork: Rich in protein, savory flavor, hearty base.
• Cremini mushrooms: Earthy taste, adds umami, rich in antioxidants.
• Crushed tomatoes: Provides acidity, source of lycopene, enhances sauciness.
• Onion: Adds sweetness, depth of flavor, high in antioxidants.
• Carrot: Adds subtle sweetness, vitamin A rich, colorful touch.
• Garlic: Aromatic, boosts immunity, deepens overall flavor.

Instant Pot Meaty Mushroom Ragu Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef or pork
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, finely grated
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Parmesan cheese, grated, for serving

How to Make this Instant Pot Meaty Mushroom Ragu Recipe

1. Place your Instant Pot in the sauté setting. Add olive oil. When the oil is hot, toss in the finely chopped onion. Let it go for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring, until it is softened and just beginning to turn translucent. At this point, if you have them, stir in some salt and freshly ground black pepper.

2. Continue to sauté for another minute until fragrant, adding the minced garlic.

3. Put ground beef or pork in the pot. Cook and use a wooden spoon to break it up until it’s browned and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat, if necessary.

4. Blend in the quite finely chopped cremini mushrooms, carrot that has been grated, and celery that has been chopped. Cook for another 4 to 5 minutes, until the veggies seem to have softened.

5. Stir in the tomato paste until the meat and vegetables are coated. Cook for an extra minute, letting the flavor deepen.

6. Add the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, then the dried oregano, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes, if using. Stir well to combine.

7. Taste and season with salt and pepper, mixing everything thoroughly.

8. Ensure the Instant Pot lid is secured and the valve is set to sealing. Select the manual or pressure cook setting and set the timer for 20 minutes.

9. When you finish cooking, let the pressure come down by itself for 10 minutes. After that, you can release the rest of the pressure quickly.

10. Take the top off and mix the chopped fresh parsley into the ragu. Ladle it over whatever shape pasta you like, then rain some grated Parmesan over the top.

Instant Pot Meaty Mushroom Ragu Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Instant Pot
2. Wooden spoon
3. Knife
4. Cutting board
5. Cheese grater
6. Measuring spoons
7. Measuring cup
8. Ladle

FAQ

• Can I use a different type of meat?Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will be somewhat different.
• What type of mushrooms work best?Cremini mushrooms are recommended for their hearty flavor, yet you can opt for button mushrooms or portobello mushrooms if you wish.
• Is there a substitute for crushed tomatoes?In a pinch, you can use tomato puree or diced tomatoes, but for smoother results, blend the diced tomatoes.
• Can I make this ragu in advance?
  Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• How do I make it spicier?In order to boost the spice factor, you can add more red pepper flakes or even a splash of hot sauce.
• Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?You can eliminate the meat entirely or use alternatives like plant-based ground beef. But instead of beef broth, use vegetable broth.
• How should I serve the ragu?This ragu goes well with pasta, polenta, or even mashed potatoes, and don’t forget to sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top!

Instant Pot Meaty Mushroom Ragu Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Olive oil: Substitute with avocado oil or canola oil for a different cooking oil.
Ground beef or pork: Use ground turkey or chicken for a smoother option. Ground beef or pork can be substituted with turkey or chicken without losing any of the characteristics that make these proteins tasty.
Cremini mushrooms: For a similar texture and flavor, use button mushrooms or portobello mushrooms.
Diced tomatoes or tomato sauce can be used in place of crushed tomatoes if you have none on hand.
Beef broth: Substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth, depending on dietary choices.

Pro Tips

1. Deglaze the Pot After browning the meat, consider using a splash of red wine or a little beef broth to deglaze the bottom of the pot. This will lift any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom and enhance the depth of flavor in your ragu.

2. Mushroom Magic Since cremini mushrooms add a deep umami element, you can boost this by adding a teaspoon of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce when you add the mushrooms. This will enrich the sauce further and intensify the savory profile.

3. Consistency Check If, after pressure cooking, the ragu seems too watery for your liking, set the Instant Pot back to the sauté setting and let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to thicken to your desired consistency.

4. Herb Enhancement Fresh herbs can really elevate the dish. In addition to the parsley, consider adding a handful of fresh basil leaves at the very end for a fragrant finish.

5. Extra Creaminess For a richer sauce, stir in a tablespoon of butter or a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking. This can add a silky texture and round out the flavors beautifully.