This Instant Pot clam pasta with white clam sauce is a dish I’ve made for more than 20 years. I recently adapted my clams linguine recipe for the Instant Pot, and it quickly became my favorite go-to after long days because it cooks fast and cleanup is minimal.
It’s an easy, flavorful take on a classic Italian favorite. The combination of clam juice, garlic, herbs and a little heat with perfectly cooked pasta delivers great texture and bright, satisfying flavors. It also reheats beautifully—leftovers make an excellent lunch.
Linguine with White Clam Sauce
I prefer white clam sauce to a red sauce because it feels lighter and lets the clams and garlic shine. This version works great with canned chopped clams, which are economical and convenient—though fresh littlenecks are even better when available.
Use whatever pasta you prefer; linguine is my top choice, but spaghetti or another long pasta will work fine.
White Clam Sauce Ingredients
- Linguine pasta
- Chopped clams (canned or fresh)
- Minced garlic
- Chicken broth (or clam juice)
- White wine (optional)
- Italian seasoning
- Chopped parsley
- Red pepper flakes
- Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
How to Make White Clam Sauce
These directions are for the Instant Pot but the method translates easily to the stovetop if needed. The key with the pressure cooker is layering the pasta and liquid without stirring so the pasta cooks evenly.
1. Set the Instant Pot to Sauté (Normal). When the display reads HOT, add olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
2. If using white wine, add 1/4 cup and let it reduce for a minute.
3. Add the canned chopped clams (no need to drain), Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt and pepper.
4. Pour in the chicken broth (or clam juice). Stir to combine the broth and seasonings.
5. Break the linguine in half and arrange it in a crisscross pattern on top of the liquid. Gently press the pasta down so it is mostly submerged, but do not stir.
6. Secure the lid and move the valve to SEAL. Select Pressure Cook (Manual) on High and set the cook time to 5 minutes.
7. When the cook time finishes, allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
8. Open the lid, stir the pasta and sauce. It may look a bit thin at first—let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken. Stir in the Parmesan and chopped parsley, adjust seasoning, and serve.
What to Serve with Linguine Pasta with White Clam Sauce?
This pasta pairs nicely with a crisp salad to add texture and contrast—simple mixed greens with a light vinaigrette work well. A lemon‑asparagus salad or a green salad with a champagne vinaigrette complements the garlic and clam flavors.
A dry sparkling wine or white wine is a lovely match, but a nonalcoholic sparkling beverage will also balance the dish.
This recipe is simple, quick, and satisfying—one I return to often. Leftovers keep well and taste even better the next day.
Other Recipes You Will Enjoy
Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers
Instant Pot Steamed Mussels in Garlic Butter
Instant Pot Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Lemon Asparagus Salad
Linguine with White Clam Sauce (Instant Pot)
Ingredients
- 2 cans chopped clams
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 1 3/4 Cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red chili pepper flakes
- 2 to 3 tablespoons parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 5 oz. linguine
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
-
Turn on Sauté on the Instant Pot to Normal. When hot, add olive oil and sauté garlic 2–3 minutes. Add two cans of chopped clams, chicken broth and seasonings. Break pasta in half and add in a crisscross pattern on top of the liquid. Do not stir. Push pasta down gently so it is covered.
-
Secure the lid and set the valve to Seal. Cancel Sauté, then select Manual/Pressure Cook on High for 5 minutes. When finished, allow a 5-minute natural release, then quick release the remaining pressure. Open the lid, stir, add Parmesan, and let rest a few minutes to thicken. Serve and enjoy.
Notes
Nutrition
Tried this recipe? Don’t forget to follow us.
Mention or follow @stuffmattycooks or tag #stuffmattycooks!
