Instant Pot Lasagna Soup

When the chill of autumn sets in or you’re just craving comfort food, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of lasagna soup to wrap your taste buds in a cozy hug. This Instant Pot Lasagna Soup brings all the flavors of classic lasagna into a hearty, one-pot meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or a lovely family gathering. With its rich marinara, creamy cheeses, and tender noodles, it truly redefines comfort food. Plus, the Instant Pot makes whipping up this dish a breeze, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying each delightful spoonful.

Why you’ll love this dish

This lasagna soup is a champion in the kitchen for several reasons. First and foremost, it combines the beloved flavors of traditional lasagna with convenience, making it a genius choice for busy home cooks. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also budget-friendly and incredibly satisfying. You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or last-minute guests. Plus, it’s a surefire hit with kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone at the table will leave with full bellies and happy hearts. The fact that you can customize it to fit various dietary needs—such as using turkey instead of beef—makes it even more appealing.

"Absolutely delicious! This soup captures all the flavors I love about lasagna but is so much easier to make! A new family favorite!" — A delighted home cook

Step-by-step overview

Making this Instant Pot Lasagna Soup is simpler than you might expect. Begin by browning your choice of meat, then sauté aromatic vegetables like onion and garlic. Next, you’ll deglaze the pot with a splash of broth before adding all the delicious ingredients—marinara, noodles, and spices—and cooking it under pressure. After the cooking time, stir in creamy cheeses to elevate the dish, and you’re ready to serve!

What you’ll need

To recreate this comforting dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons olive oil (optional, for very lean beef or if using turkey)
• 1-1.5 pounds lean ground beef or ground Italian sausage (sub ground turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 8 lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Feel free to adjust any ingredients to your taste or based on what you have at home!

Directions to follow

1. Turn on the Sauté function on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil if you’re using it. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s no longer pink—about 7-8 minutes. Break the meat into smaller pieces while it cooks.
2. If necessary, discard any excess oil (a tip: use tongs and a paper towel to soak it up instead of draining).
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for an additional couple of minutes until fragrant and softened. Then, turn off the sauté function.
4. Pour a small amount of broth into the pot to deglaze, scraping up any brown bits stuck to the bottom with a spatula.
5. Add the remaining broth, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, basil, parsley, onion powder, oregano, red pepper flakes, and dried rosemary.
6. Add the broken lasagna noodles, pushing them down into the liquid until they are just submerged (avoid stirring at this point).
7. Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to high-pressure Manual for 6 minutes. It will take about 20 minutes for the pot to come to pressure.
8. Once the cooking time is complete, quick release the pressure carefully. Stir in the balsamic vinegar, ricotta, and parmesan. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Top with mozzarella cheese, then place the Instant Pot lid slightly askew to allow the cheese to melt.
10. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Best ways to enjoy it

This soup can stand on its own, but pairing it with a crusty slice of garlic bread or a light side salad can take it to another level. For a more filling meal, consider serving it with a side of roasted vegetables or a colorful Caesar salad. Don’t forget a sprinkle of extra parmesan on top for that authentic Italian touch!

How to store & freeze

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you prefer to freeze it, pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers and store it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. A quick note: when reheating, you might want to add a splash of broth to maintain its creamy consistency.

Helpful cooking tips

For the best results, make sure you have your ingredients prepped before starting. This will streamline the cooking process and help prevent any last-minute scrambling. Don’t skip the deglazing step—it adds significant depth to the flavor of your soup. And if you prefer a thicker soup, consider reducing the amount of broth slightly or adding an extra dollop of ricotta before serving.

Creative twists

Feel free to get creative! You could swap out the proteins—use lean turkey or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option. For added vegetables, toss in some spinach or kale right before serving for a nutritional boost. If you like a little heat, try adding more red pepper flakes or even some spicy Italian sausage.

Common questions

1. How long does it take to prepare this lasagna soup?
   The total time from start to finish is roughly 30-40 minutes, including prep and cooking.

2. Can I use zucchini noodles instead of lasagna noodles?
   Absolutely! Just be mindful of the cooking time, as zucchini noodles cook much faster. Add them in the last few minutes of pressure cooking.

3. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
   Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

4. Can I make this soup in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare everything up until the cooking stage and store it in the fridge for up to a day or two. Just cook when ready to enjoy!

This Instant Pot Lasagna Soup is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings the joy of lasagna to your table without the fuss. Enjoy your cooking adventures while savoring this delightful dish!

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