Instant Pot Christmas Confetti Pasta

Instant Pot Christmas Confetti Pasta is a vibrant and festive dish that brings the joy of the season to your table. With colorful pops of red and green from bell peppers, this recipe is not only visually appealing but also incredibly quick and easy to prepare. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners, this dish stands out for its delightful flavors and minimal prep time. Enjoy a comforting meal that captures the essence of Christmas in every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dump-and-go recipe allows you to prepare a delicious meal in just 21 minutes.
• Festive Colors: The bright red and green bell peppers make this pasta visually stunning, ideal for holiday celebrations.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your choice of proteins or add seasonal vegetables for an extra twist.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and creamy parmesan creates a rich and satisfying taste experience.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it a hit at any dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

To make Instant Pot Christmas Confetti Pasta, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Trivet
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: This multi-cooker is perfect for pressure cooking, ensuring your pasta is cooked quickly while retaining flavor.
• Trivet: Using a trivet keeps the shrimp above the pasta, allowing for even cooking without overcooking the seafood.
• Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients easily before adding them to the pot.

Ingredients

Shrimp and pasta with red and green pops of color from bell peppers. A fast dump-and-go pressure cooker recipe!

For the Base

• 2 cups water
• 1 Tbsp Better than Bouillon chicken base
• 2 Tbsp dry onion flakes
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp oregano
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces linguine or fettuccine

For the Shrimp and Peppers

• 1 pound frozen uncooked peeled and deveined shrimp
• 1 red bell pepper, cored and diced
• 1 green bell pepper, cored and diced
• ¼ cup olive oil

For Creaminess (Optional)

• ¼ cup heavy cream (optional)
• ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese

How to Make Instant Pot Christmas Confetti Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Pour water into the bottom of the Instant Pot. Add in the bouillon, onion flakes, garlic powder, salt, oregano, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.

Step 2: Add the Pasta

Break the pasta in half and scatter it into the pot in a criss-cross pattern. This technique helps prevent sticking during cooking.

Step 3: Prepare Shrimp and Peppers

In a pan suitable for pot-in-pot cooking, add the shrimp on top of which you’ll layer the diced peppers. Drizzle olive oil over everything.

Step 4: Set Up for Cooking

Place a tall trivet into the Instant Pot over the fettuccine. Then place your uncovered shrimp and peppers pan on top of this trivet.

Step 5: Cook Under Pressure

Cover the Instant Pot securely with its lid. Ensure that the valve is set to sealing. Set the manual/pressure cook button to 6 minutes. Once done, allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes before moving the valve to venting to release pressure safely.

Step 6: Mix Everything Together

Carefully remove the pan along with the trivet from the pot once it’s safe to do so. Turn off your Instant Pot. Stir together the shrimp, peppers, and pasta until evenly combined. If desired, stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese for added richness.

Step 7: Taste Test & Serve

Taste your dish and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve immediately while warm, enjoying this festive delight!

How to Serve Instant Pot Christmas Confetti Pasta

Instant Pot Christmas Confetti Pasta is a vibrant and delicious dish, perfect for festive gatherings or a comforting family meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Serve with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of flavor and color.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Crunchy Delight: Serve alongside warm garlic bread for a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy pasta.

Add a Salad

• Mixed Greens: A light mixed greens salad dressed in vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta and add freshness to your meal.

Top with Extra Cheese

• Cheesy Finish: Offer extra shredded parmesan on the side for those who love an extra cheesy bite.

Include Lemon Wedges

• Zesty Touch: Provide lemon wedges for squeezing over the dish, enhancing the flavors with a bright, zesty kick.

Drizzle with Olive Oil

• Flavor Boost: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving adds richness and depth to the dish.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Christmas Confetti Pasta

To achieve the best results with your Instant Pot Christmas Confetti Pasta, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Flavor Base: Make sure to use fresh ingredients like garlic powder and onion flakes to enhance the flavor profile.
• Bold Cooking Technique: Break the pasta into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
• Bold Timing Matters: Always allow for natural pressure release after cooking; this helps retain moisture in the shrimp.
• Bold Seasoning Adjustment: Taste before serving and adjust seasoning as needed; every palate is different!
• Bold Garnish Options: Experiment with various herbs and spices like red pepper flakes or fresh dill for unique flavors.
• Bold Serving Temperature: Serve immediately after cooking for the best taste and texture; reheating may alter consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Christmas Confetti Pasta

When planning your meal, consider these delightful side dishes that pair wonderfully with Instant Pot Christmas Confetti Pasta.

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection adds color and nutrition.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing, croutons, and parmesan makes an excellent complement.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice provides a refreshing contrast.
4. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create an appealing appetizer.
5. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese offers a healthy option.
6. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil brings an Italian flair.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Christmas Confetti Pasta, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

• Skipping the crisscross pasta placement: This mistake can lead to clumping. Be sure to break the pasta and scatter it in a crisscross pattern in the pot.
• Not using enough liquid: Insufficient liquid can cause the pasta to burn. Always measure your water accurately to ensure even cooking.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, and overcooking can make them tough. Follow the timing closely for perfect texture.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: The flavors may need tweaking after cooking. Taste your dish and add more seasoning if necessary for enhanced flavor.
• Forgetting to vent properly: Not venting correctly can lead to pressure buildup. Make sure you know how to release pressure safely after cooking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instant Pot Christmas Confetti Pasta

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instant Pot Christmas Confetti Pasta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: In a pan over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth and stir until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Instant Pot Christmas Confetti Pasta?

Instant Pot Christmas Confetti Pasta is a vibrant dish made with shrimp and colorful bell peppers, offering a quick and festive meal option.

How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Christmas Confetti Pasta?

The total cook time is about 6 minutes in the Instant Pot, plus additional time for pressure build-up and release.

Can I customize Instant Pot Christmas Confetti Pasta?

Absolutely! You can swap out shrimp for chicken or turkey and add different veggies like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition.

What should I serve with Instant Pot Christmas Confetti Pasta?

Serve this dish with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Christmas Confetti Pasta is not only quick and easy but also colorful and delicious. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its festive charm!

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