If you love traditional lasagna but don’t have the time to layer and bake it, this Instant Pot Lasagna Soup is the perfect alternative. It has all the rich, cheesy, and savory flavors of a classic lasagna, but it's deconstructed into a hearty, flavorful soup.
Making this soup in the Instant Pot not only saves time but also intensifies the flavors, giving you a deliciously satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. Whether you're a busy parent, a meal-prepping enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys comforting one-pot meals, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.
In this blog post, we’ll go over:
- The essential ingredients
- Step-by-step instructions
- Tips for the best results
- Customization options for different diets
- Serving suggestions and storage tips
Let’s dive into the world of Instant Pot Lasagna Soup and learn how to make this incredible dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Traditional lasagna takes time, but this soup is ready in a fraction of it.
- One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor!
- Rich & Flavorful: The Instant Pot locks in all the deep, savory Italian flavors.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable for different diets and preferences.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make a delicious pot of Instant Pot Lasagna Soup:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage for extra flavor)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14.5-oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6-oz) can tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk (for creaminess)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (for serving)
Optional Add-Ins:
- Spinach or kale (for extra nutrition)
- Mushrooms or zucchini (for added texture)
- Ground turkey or chicken (for a leaner option)
How to Make Instant Pot Lasagna Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Turn on the Instant Pot’s “Sauté” function and set it to medium.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil, followed by the diced onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
- Add the ground beef (or Italian sausage) to the pot.
- Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned (about 5 minutes).
- Drain any excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
- Stir in the tomato paste, coating the meat and onions. Cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
- Season with salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.
Step 4: Add the Noodles & Pressure Cook
- Break the lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and stir them into the soup.
- Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Pressure Cook” (High) for 5 minutes.
- Once the timer goes off, do a quick release to prevent overcooking the pasta.
Step 5: Make It Creamy & Cheesy
- Stir in heavy cream for a silky texture.
- Add shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted.
Step 6: Serve & Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Top with a dollop of ricotta cheese for that classic lasagna touch.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan.
Expert Tips for the Best Instant Pot Lasagna Soup
- Use Italian Sausage: Swap half or all of the ground beef for Italian sausage for extra depth of flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Break them into pieces before cooking, and always do a quick release.
- Balance the Acidity: If the tomatoes taste too tangy, add a teaspoon of sugar to mellow out the acidity.
- Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld together overnight.
Variations & Customizations
Low-Carb/Keto Version:
- Replace lasagna noodles with zucchini noodles or cabbage strips.
- Use heavy cream instead of milk for a richer texture.
Vegetarian Version:
- Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or extra mushrooms.
- Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Dairy-Free Version:
- Omit the cheese and use coconut cream or cashew cream for creaminess.
Spicy Version:
- Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
What to Serve with Instant Pot Lasagna Soup
This soup is already hearty, but you can pair it with:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
- Simple Side Salad: A crisp Caesar or garden salad balances the richness.
- Roasted Vegetables: For a well-rounded meal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerating:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
- This soup freezes well! Just leave out the noodles (add fresh ones when reheating).
- Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Heat on low, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave: Reheat in short bursts, stirring between each one.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Lasagna Soup is the perfect meal for busy nights when you want a comforting, home-cooked dish without all the hassle of layering and baking. With its rich tomato broth, tender pasta, and cheesy goodness, it delivers everything you love about lasagna in an easy, one-pot format.Happy Cooking!