Instant Pot Bison Pasta: A Delicious and Healthy Weeknight Meal

Bison, also known as buffalo, is a lean and flavorful red meat that’s gaining popularity as a healthy alternative to beef. When combined with pasta and cooked in an Instant Pot, it creates a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe for Instant Pot Bison Pasta is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and yielding maximum flavor.

## Why Choose Bison?

Before diving into the recipe, let’s explore why bison is a great choice for your next pasta dish:

* **Lean Protein:** Bison is significantly leaner than beef, containing less fat and cholesterol. This makes it a healthier option for those watching their fat intake.
* **Rich in Nutrients:** Bison is packed with essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, contributing to overall health and well-being.
* **Unique Flavor:** Bison has a slightly sweeter and richer flavor compared to beef, adding a unique dimension to your pasta dish. It has a distinct earthy and slightly gamey flavor that pairs exceptionally well with robust sauces and hearty vegetables.
* **Sustainable Choice:** Many bison ranchers prioritize sustainable farming practices, making bison a more environmentally friendly option.
* **Excellent Source of Iron:** Bison is a powerhouse of iron, crucial for energy levels and preventing anemia. A serving of bison can provide a significant portion of your daily iron needs.
* **Lower in Calories:** Compared to beef, bison typically contains fewer calories per serving, making it a good choice for those managing their weight.

## The Magic of the Instant Pot

The Instant Pot is a game-changer when it comes to quick and easy cooking. Its ability to pressure cook food in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods makes it ideal for busy weeknights. For this Bison Pasta recipe, the Instant Pot excels in:

* **Speed and Convenience:** The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time, allowing you to have a delicious meal on the table in under an hour.
* **Tenderizing the Bison:** Pressure cooking ensures that the bison is perfectly tender and flavorful, even when using ground bison that might otherwise become tough.
* **One-Pot Wonder:** This recipe is a true one-pot meal, meaning less cleanup and more time to relax and enjoy your dinner.
* **Flavor Infusion:** The sealed environment of the Instant Pot helps to infuse the pasta and bison with the flavors of the sauce, creating a richer and more complex dish.
* **Hands-Off Cooking:** Once the ingredients are in the Instant Pot, you can set it and forget it, freeing you up to do other things while your dinner cooks.

## Instant Pot Bison Pasta Recipe

This recipe is designed to be both delicious and adaptable. Feel free to adjust the ingredients and seasonings to your liking.

**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Prep time:** 15 minutes
**Cook time:** 25 minutes (including pressure build-up and release)

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound ground bison
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1 teaspoon dried basil
* 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
* 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
* 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
* Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

**Equipment:**

* Instant Pot (6-quart or larger)
* Large spoon or spatula
* Measuring cups and spoons

**Instructions:**

**Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics**

1. Turn on your Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function. Add the olive oil to the pot. Once the oil is heated, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until softened and translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and chopped red bell pepper to the pot. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant and the bell pepper is slightly softened. Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.

**Step 2: Brown the Bison**

1. Add the ground bison to the Instant Pot. Use a spoon or spatula to break it up into smaller pieces.
2. Cook the bison until it is browned, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the pot, if necessary. This step is crucial for developing the rich, meaty flavor of the dish.

**Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients**

1. Turn off the “Sauté” function. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (undrained), dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
2. Pour in the beef broth (or chicken broth). Make sure all the ground bison is submerged in the liquid to ensure even cooking.
3. Add the pasta to the pot. Gently press the pasta down into the liquid, ensuring that it is mostly covered. Avoid stirring at this point to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Layering the ingredients correctly is key to preventing the “burn” notice on your Instant Pot.

**Step 4: Pressure Cook**

1. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and make sure the pressure release valve is set to the “Sealing” position.
2. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the cooking time to half the time indicated on the pasta package, minus one minute. For example, if the pasta package says to cook for 10 minutes, set the Instant Pot to cook for 4 minutes. (10/2 -1 = 4). This adjusted time accounts for the pressure cooking environment.
3. The Instant Pot will take some time to come to pressure. Once it reaches pressure, the cooking time will begin. The cooking time will start counting down.

**Step 5: Release the Pressure**

1. Once the cooking time is complete, carefully perform a quick pressure release by moving the pressure release valve to the “Venting” position. Be cautious of the steam that will be released. It’s important to release the pressure quickly to prevent the pasta from overcooking.
2. Once all the pressure is released and the float valve has dropped, carefully open the lid of the Instant Pot. (If the steam release is too vigorous, you can do a natural release for 5 minutes and then do a quick release).

**Step 6: Stir and Serve**

1. Stir the pasta and sauce together gently. The sauce will thicken as it cools slightly.
2. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. If the sauce is too thin, you can turn the “Sauté” function back on for a few minutes to allow it to reduce and thicken.
3. Serve the Instant Pot Bison Pasta hot. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley, if desired.

## Tips and Variations

* **Add Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to this recipe, such as zucchini, mushrooms, carrots, or spinach. Add them along with the bell pepper or after pressure cooking.
* **Spice it Up:** For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the pot along with the other seasonings.
* **Cheese, Please!** Stir in some shredded mozzarella or ricotta cheese after pressure cooking for an extra creamy and cheesy pasta dish.
* **Creamy Version:** For a creamier sauce, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or sour cream after pressure cooking.
* **Different Pasta Shapes:** While penne and rotini work well, you can use other pasta shapes like fusilli, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni.
* **Use Different Ground Meat:** If you don’t have bison, you can substitute ground beef, ground turkey, or ground chicken.
* **Adjust Broth:** If you like a more “saucy” pasta, then add one extra cup of broth for a total of five.
* **Tomato Paste:** Adding 1-2 tablespoons of tomato paste to the bison while it’s sauteing can add additional richness and depth of flavor.
* **Deglaze the Pot:** After browning the bison, add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to the pot and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. This will add extra flavor to the sauce and help prevent the “burn” notice.
* **Herbs de Provence:** Substitute the oregano and basil with 1 teaspoon of Herbs de Provence for a different flavor profile.
* **Sun-Dried Tomatoes:** Add 1/2 cup of sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained) along with the other canned tomatoes for a more intense tomato flavor.

## Serving Suggestions

This Instant Pot Bison Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with:

* A side salad with a light vinaigrette
* Garlic bread or crusty rolls for soaking up the sauce
* Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus
* A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or oregano

## Storing and Reheating

* **Storing:** Store leftover Instant Pot Bison Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a little broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. Microwaving in 30-second intervals and stirring in between can help prevent the pasta from drying out. For stovetop reheating, use low heat and stir frequently.

## Nutrition Information (Approximate)

*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

* Calories: 450-550 per serving
* Protein: 30-35 grams
* Fat: 15-20 grams
* Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams

## Making it Gluten Free

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Many gluten-free pasta options are available in supermarkets today, made from ingredients like rice, corn, quinoa, or a blend of gluten-free flours. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as broth and canned tomatoes, are also gluten-free by checking the labels.

## Conclusion

This Instant Pot Bison Pasta recipe is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal. The combination of lean bison, flavorful sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its ease of preparation and minimal cleanup, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or any time you’re looking for a quick and easy meal. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your Instant Pot, and get ready to enjoy a flavorful and nutritious bison pasta dish!