This Instant Pot Lasagna Soup brings all the tasty flavors of classic lasagna in a warm, cozy bowl. With layers of cheese, ground meat, and pasta, it’s comfort food at its best!
Making this soup is super easy! Just toss everything in the pot, let it do its magic, and enjoy. I love to top mine with extra cheese because, let’s face it, cheese makes everything better! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef gives a nice hearty flavor, but substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or mushrooms instead.
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional lasagna noodles are perfect here. If you’re gluten-free, you can use gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought marinara sauce saves time, but if you prefer homemade, use crushed tomatoes, garlic, and spices to make your own sauce. Adjust spice levels to your taste!
Ricotta Cheese: If ricotta isn’t your favorite, cottage cheese is a great alternative. It provides a similar creaminess but with a different texture.
How Do You Properly Layer the Ingredients in the Instant Pot?
Layering ingredients correctly is key to get the best flavor and texture. Here’s how:
- Start with the cooked ground meat and onions to create a base at the bottom of the pot.
- Add the liquid ingredients (broth, marinara, diced tomatoes) next to ensure proper cooking and avoid burning.
- Layer in the seasonings and broken noodles last to keep them from clumping together.
- Mix everything gently after cooking to combine flavors without breaking up the noodles too much.
Don’t rush the release after cooking; allow it to thoroughly mix together for a well-combined soup!
Instant Pot Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You Will Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground Italian sausage)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or homemade tomato sauce)
- 1 (14-16 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 6 lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Toppings:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 5 minutes to cook in the Instant Pot, plus a quick release time. In total, expect about 30 minutes from start to finish, with all the deliciousness packed in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Meat:
Start by setting your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add the ground beef (or sausage) and cook it until it’s browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon. If there’s extra fat, drain it out, so your soup isn’t too greasy.
2. Add Vegetables:
Next, toss in the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. It should smell amazing at this point!
3. Mix in the Liquids and Spices:
Pour in the beef broth, marinara sauce, and diced tomatoes (including their juice). Stir in the dried oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if you want a little kick. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the Pasta:
Now, toss in the broken lasagna noodles. Give everything a gentle stir to combine, but be careful not to overmix or break the noodles too much.
5. Pressure Cook:
Seal the Instant Pot lid, making sure the vent is in the sealing position. Set it to Manual/Pressure Cook on high for 5 minutes. This is where the magic happens!
6. Release the Pressure:
When the cooking time ends, carefully do a quick release to let out the steam. Open the lid once the pressure has completely released.
7. Stir and Adjust:
Give the soup a good stir. It might be slightly thick; that’s okay! Taste it and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve and Top:
Serve the soup hot in bowls, adding a generous dollop of ricotta cheese on top. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and some fresh herbs for garnish. Enjoy this comforting, cheesy goodness!
Enjoy your hearty, cheesy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup! Perfect for a cozy night in.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute, and it will still provide delicious flavor. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
What If I Don’t Have Lasagna Noodles?
No worries! You can use any pasta shape you have on hand, such as penne or rigatoni. Just adjust the cooking time as needed—check the pasta package for guidance!
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Cool any leftover soup to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
