Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna in a bowl with layers of cheese and sauce

Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna is a quick and easy way to enjoy the flavors of traditional lasagna without the time and effort. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to serve a hearty meal with minimal fuss. With the Instant Pot, you can achieve tender pasta and rich sauce in a matter of minutes. Plus, you get to skip the layering and cooking times typical of classic lasagna, making this dish both simple and satisfying.

how to make Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

Ingredients:

  • Olive oil (optional, to sauté very lean ground beef)
  • 1 lb lean ground beef or ground Italian sausage
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • A few turns freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups chicken broth (can sub water and adjust salt to taste)
  • 22 oz jar marinara sauce (650 ml / 2 ¾ cups)
  • 1 15oz can diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 10-12 oz short Mafalda pasta (mini lasagna noodles)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese (can sub cottage cheese)
  • 1 cup freshly grated mozzarella cheese
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions:

  1. Turn on the Sauté function on the Instant Pot. When the screen says "hot," add the beef and season it with salt and pepper. Sauté until almost cooked through, breaking the beef into smaller pieces. Then, add the onion and garlic. Continue to cook until the beef is browned and the onion is softened.
  2. Drain grease if needed. Use kitchen tongs and a paper towel to soak up grease, so you don’t need to remove the food from the pot.
  3. Turn off the Sauté function and add a small amount of broth. Use a flat-bottomed spatula to deglaze the bottom of the insert, scraping up any bits of food that are stuck to the bottom.
  4. Add the remaining broth, then layer on the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, basil, parsley, onion powder, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Evenly layer the pasta on top and push them down into the liquid (it doesn’t need to be fully submerged). Do not stir.
  5. Close the lid and set the vent to sealing. Pressure cook on Manual High pressure for 4 minutes (your Instant Pot may have a "Pressure Cook" button instead of "Manual"). It will take about 15 minutes to come to pressure.
  6. At the end of the cooking time, do a controlled quick release of the pressure (let pressure out a bit at a time to reduce splatter). Open the lid and give it a stir. Then mix in the ricotta cheese and top with grated mozzarella. Set the lid askew on the pot for a few minutes to melt the cheese.
  7. Serve immediately with a fresh parsley garnish if desired. Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator and eat within 4 days.

how to serve Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

You can serve Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna hot straight from the pot. It pairs well with a simple green salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs or parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.

how to store Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

To store leftovers, let the lasagna cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat portions in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.

tips to make Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

  • Use lean ground beef or turkey for a healthier version.
  • Feel free to add your favorite veggies, like spinach or bell peppers, for extra nutrition.
  • If you don’t have Mafalda pasta, other short pasta shapes will work as well.

variation

You can make a vegetarian version by omitting the meat and adding extra vegetables, like zucchini or mushrooms. Swap the marinara sauce with a homemade or store-bought tomato sauce for a different flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! You can use other cheeses like cottage cheese or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a different flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them separately until you’re ready to cook. Just follow the cooking instructions when you’re ready to eat.