Instant Pot Spicy Pork and Squash Ragu is a hearty and flavorful dish that perfectly balances the rich, savory taste of pork with the natural sweetness of squash. This ragu is simmered to perfection in the Instant Pot, allowing the spices and aromatics to infuse the tender pork with layers of bold flavor. The squash adds a subtle sweetness and creamy texture, making this ragu a comforting and satisfying meal. Served over pasta, polenta, or even on its own, this dish is a quick and easy way to enjoy a gourmet-quality dinner on a busy weeknight. The subtle heat from the spices warms you from the inside out, making it a perfect dish for cooler weather.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish
- Cooked pasta, polenta, or rice, for serving
Instructions:
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and heat the olive oil.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano, and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Pork:
- Add the ground pork to the Instant Pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the pork is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Add the Squash and Tomatoes:
- Stir in the diced butternut squash, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken broth. Mix well to combine.
- Pressure Cook:
- Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
- Serve:
- Open the Instant Pot and give the ragu a good stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve the Spicy Pork and Squash Ragu over your choice of cooked pasta, polenta, or rice.
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley.
Enjoy your rich and comforting Instant Pot Spicy Pork and Squash Ragu, a perfect dish for a cozy and flavorful dinner!
