There’s nothing quite as comforting as a steaming bowl of Instant Pot Lasagna Soup. It captures everything we love about classic lasagna—the hearty meat, the robust tomato sauce, the gooey cheese—then transforms it into a cozy, slurpable dinner you can have on the table in about 30 minutes. If you’re craving lasagna flavor but don’t have hours to spare, this is your new go-to recipe: simple, speedy, and satisfying, right down to the very last spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Instant Pot Lasagna Soup lies in its perfectly straightforward ingredient lineup. Each component brings something essential to the pot: savory depth, bold Italian flavor, a silky cheesy finish, or that classic noodle bite. Gather these staples, and you’re halfway to dinner bliss.
- Ground beef or Italian sausage: Adds rich flavor and protein; use either or both for a deeper taste.
- Olive oil (if needed): Helps brown the meat and start things off with a touch of richness.
- Onion, diced: Brings sweet, aromatic undertones that balance the robust sauce.
- Garlic, minced: A must for that irresistible Italian aroma and flavor.
- Dried basil: Classic Italian herb that brightens and perfumes the soup.
- Dried oregano: Gives a quintessential “pizza parlor” flavor to every bite.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Add a gentle kick for those who like it spicy.
- Low-sodium chicken or beef broth: Forms the soup base and keeps it wonderfully slurpable.
- Crushed tomatoes: Delivers body and classic lasagna tang to the soup.
- Tomato paste: Intensifies tomato flavor and thickens the broth just right.
- Lasagna noodles, broken into pieces: Make up the heart of this “lasagna in a bowl.”
- Ricotta cheese: Dolloped on top for a creamy, classic finish.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for ultimate cheesy comfort.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty punch right before serving.
- Chopped fresh parsley: For a burst of color and freshness at the end.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Let you season each bowl to your liking.
How to Make Instant Pot Lasagna Soup
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode and add the ground beef or Italian sausage. Let it cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it’s beautifully browned and the aroma fills your kitchen. If there’s a lot of grease, drain off any excess to keep your soup from being heavy. This first step builds the savory foundation that sets the whole dish up for success.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
After the meat is browned, toss in the diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened and translucent. This gentle sauté draws out the onion’s sweetness. Then, stir in the minced garlic, dried basil, oregano, and—if you love a little heat—crushed red pepper flakes. Let everything cook together for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells like an Italian trattoria!
Step 3: Add the Liquids and Tomatoes
Press Cancel to turn off Sauté mode, but don’t rush—pour in the broth now, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen up all those delicious, browned bits. These bits are flavor gold! Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste until everything is beautifully combined. The mixture will look rich and hearty, promising a flavorful soup ahead.
Step 4: Add the Lasagna Noodles
Break the lasagna noodles into roughly 2-inch pieces and add them to the pot. Gently press them down with your spoon so they’re mostly submerged in the liquid. This ensures they’ll cook evenly and absorb all that tomatoey, meaty goodness.
Step 5: Pressure Cook
Lock the Instant Pot lid in place and set to Pressure Cook on High for 5 minutes. When the timer beeps, let the Instant Pot Lasagna Soup sit for a natural release for another 5 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure. When you open the pot, give the soup a good stir—those noodles will be perfectly tender, and the broth rich and inviting.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Taste your soup and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Ladle it hot into deep bowls, then crown each serving with a generous spoonful of ricotta, a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella, a scattering of Parmesan, and a flourish of fresh parsley. It’s everything you love about lasagna, presented in the coziest way imaginable!
How to Serve Instant Pot Lasagna Soup
Garnishes
The finishing touch? The cheese, of course! Top each bowl of Instant Pot Lasagna Soup with a dollop of ricotta, plenty of shredded mozzarella, and a good grating of Parmesan. Add chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and herby brightness. If you want to turn up the energy, sprinkle on more crushed red pepper or even a drizzle of olive oil.
Side Dishes
This soup is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it also plays beautifully with simple sides. Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the broth, or pair with a crisp green salad for freshness. Roasted vegetables or garlic knots are also delicious companions for the rich lasagna flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Instant Pot Lasagna Soup in oven-safe bowls, topping with shredded mozzarella, and sliding under the broiler for a bubbly, melted cheese crust—just like baked lasagna! For individual flair, set up a toppings bar with ricotta, herbs, and extra Parmesan so everyone can customize their bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Instant Pot Lasagna Soup is the kind of meal that gets even tastier after a night in the fridge. Let the soup cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers. It will keep well for up to three days, making it perfect for lunch prep or a quick, hearty dinner later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to stash some away for a future craving, this soup freezes well! Spoon cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to two months. For best results, freeze without the cheese, and add ricotta and mozzarella fresh when reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened up after chilling, just add a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency. Top with fresh cheese and parsley, and it’s as delicious as the first day!
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or make it vegetarian?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works great, giving a lighter but still savory finish. For a vegetarian Instant Pot Lasagna Soup, skip the meat and boost flavor with extra mushrooms or a plant-based ground “beef” substitute.
What kind of lasagna noodles should I use?
You can use traditional or oven-ready lasagna noodles—just break them before adding. If you’re gluten-free, swap in your favorite gluten-free lasagna pasta.
How do I make the soup thicker or thinner?
For a thinner soup, add an extra cup of broth before cooking. For a thicker, stew-like consistency, simmer a few minutes uncovered after pressure cooking or use less broth to start.
Can I double this recipe in my Instant Pot?
As long as you don’t fill your Instant Pot above the maximum fill line, you can safely double the recipe. Make sure the noodles have enough liquid to cook and stir well before sealing.
Is this kid-friendly and can I make it less spicy?
Absolutely—just leave out the red pepper flakes for a milder flavor. The cheesy topping and pasta make this a big hit with little lasagna lovers!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that brings all the comfort of classic Italian cuisine Main Course. It’s warming, satisfying, and endlessly customizable—just perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed family dinner. Give it a try, and watch it become a staple in your own kitchen!
Print
Instant Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Instant Pot Lasagna Soup is a hearty and flavorful twist on traditional lasagna, perfect for a cozy and satisfying meal. With layers of ground beef or Italian sausage, fragrant herbs, rich tomato broth, lasagna noodles, and a cheesy topping, this one-pot wonder is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Meat Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
Aromatics and Spices:
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Soup Base:
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or beef broth
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
Cheese Topping:
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Seasoning:
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Meat Mixture: Brown the ground beef or sausage in the Instant Pot using the Sauté mode. Add onion, garlic, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
- Build Soup Base: Add broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and lasagna noodles. Pressure Cook on High for 5 minutes.
- Finish and Serve: Release pressure, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with cheeses and parsley. Serve hot.
Notes
- For extra flavor, use a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage.
- Adjust the broth quantity for desired soup thickness.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
