Craving lasagna but short on time? Let me introduce you to my Instant Pot Lasagna Soup—a hearty meal ready in just minutes! You’ll experience all the rich flavors of traditional lasagna without the fuss. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll impress your family at dinner. Ready to dive into this savory recipe? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
These main ingredients form the base of your Instant Pot lasagna soup. The ground beef or sausage adds flavor and heartiness. The onion and garlic give it a nice depth. Crushed tomatoes and beef broth provide a rich, tasty liquid. Lastly, the broken lasagna noodles add that classic texture we love.
Dairy Ingredients
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
The dairy ingredients give the soup its creamy, cheesy essence. Ricotta cheese adds smoothness, while mozzarella brings stretch and melty goodness. Together, they make each bowl feel like a warm hug.
Seasoning Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Seasonings are key to making this soup pop with flavor. Oregano and basil give it that Italian taste. Red pepper flakes add a touch of heat, but you can skip them if you prefer mild. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. Fresh basil leaves on top are a perfect finishing touch, adding brightness and a lovely aroma.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and cook the meat.
- Add onion and garlic, cooking until translucent.
Start by setting your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Add one pound of ground beef or Italian sausage. Cook it until it turns brown. Break it into smaller pieces as it cooks. If there’s extra fat, drain it away.
Next, add one medium diced onion and three minced garlic cloves to the pot. Cook them for about three to four minutes. You want the onion to be soft and clear. This step builds a strong base for your soup.
Adding Ingredients
- Incorporate spices, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth.
- Mix in lasagna noodles, ensuring they are submerged.
Now it’s time to add flavor. Stir in one teaspoon of dried oregano and one teaspoon of dried basil. If you like a bit of heat, add half a teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Cook these spices for one more minute. This helps bring out their flavors.
Next, pour in one 15-ounce can of crushed tomatoes and four cups of beef broth. Mix everything well. Now, take eight ounces of lasagna noodles and break them into smaller pieces. Add them to the pot. Ensure the noodles are fully submerged in the liquid. This is key for perfect cooking.
Cooking Steps
- Close the lid and set the cooker to ‘Manual’ for 5 minutes.
- Release pressure and serve with cheese and garnish.
Close the lid of your Instant Pot and set it to ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ for five minutes. Make sure the steam seal is closed. After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for five minutes. Then do a quick release for any remaining pressure.
Carefully open the lid and stir the soup. Taste it and add salt and pepper as needed. Serve your soup hot. Top each bowl with a dollop of ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese. You can also add fresh basil leaves for a nice touch. Enjoy your savory Instant Pot lasagna soup!
Tips & Tricks
Instant Pot Tips
How to prevent the burn notice during cooking
To avoid the burn notice, make sure to add enough liquid. The beef broth is key. Scrape the bottom of the pot after browning meat. This helps remove any stuck bits.
Recommendations for adjusting cooking times for different noodles
If you use regular noodles, cook them for 5 minutes. No-boil noodles may need just 3 minutes. Always check the package for exact times. Adjust based on your noodle choice.
Flavor Enhancement Tips
Suggestions for additional herbs or spices
You can add thyme for a nice touch. A pinch of rosemary also works well. If you like a kick, try more red pepper flakes. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can brighten the dish.
Ideas for adding vegetables to the soup
Chop some bell peppers or zucchini. Add them when you mix in the onions and garlic. Spinach or kale can also be stirred in just before serving. This boosts nutrition and flavor.
Presentation Tips
Best practices for garnishing
Dollop ricotta cheese on each bowl. Then sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top. Fresh basil leaves add a pop of color and taste. A drizzle of olive oil can add richness.
Serving suggestions for pairing with bread or salad
Serve the soup with garlic bread for crunch. A simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the meal. This makes your dinner more filling and satisfying.
Variations
Protein Alternatives
You can swap the ground beef or sausage for ground turkey or chicken. These meats are leaner and still tasty. If you want a meat-free meal, try lentils or beans. Both options add protein and fiber while keeping the soup filling.
Gluten-Free Options
For gluten-free lasagna soup, use gluten-free noodles. Many brands offer options that cook well in the Instant Pot. You can also use cornstarch or arrowroot as thickeners if you need a thicker soup. These work great to keep the soup smooth and creamy.
Flavor Variations
Adding different cheeses can make your soup even richer. Try using provolone, gouda, or parmesan for extra flavor. You can also throw in seasonal vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers. They add color and nutrition to your dish.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store your leftover lasagna soup, let it cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want it to last longer, consider freezing it instead.
Freezing Recommendations
For freezing lasagna soup, cool it down completely. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Make sure to leave some space in the containers for expansion. It stays good in the freezer for about three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or in the microwave until hot.
Meal Prep Tips
For meal prep, consider portioning the soup ahead of time. Use small containers to make grab-and-go servings easy. This way, you have meals ready for busy days. You can also pair it with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Enjoying homemade soup has never been easier!
FAQs
How do you make Instant Pot Lasagna Soup?
To make this soup, you start by browning the ground meat in the Instant Pot. I love using a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage for extra flavor. After that, add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is soft. Then, stir in herbs, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Next, add the broken lasagna noodles, ensuring they are fully covered in the liquid. Secure the lid and cook on high pressure for five minutes. Once done, release the pressure, and stir in ricotta and mozzarella cheese before serving. It’s a simple and tasty process!
How long does it take to cook in an Instant Pot?
The total time for this dish is about 30 minutes. You need 15 minutes for prep. This includes chopping onion and garlic, as well as breaking the noodles. Cooking time in the Instant Pot is just five minutes on high pressure. After cooking, allow for a five-minute natural pressure release. Then, do a quick release for any leftover steam.
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Yes, you can use no-boil lasagna noodles in this recipe. Just break them into smaller pieces like you would with regular noodles. They will soften perfectly during cooking. Keep in mind that you may need to adjust the liquid slightly since no-boil noodles absorb more moisture. Adding an extra half cup of broth can help.
What are some side dishes to serve with lasagna soup?
This soup pairs well with many sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Garlic bread for dipping
- A fresh green salad for crunch
- Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top
- A light white wine like Pinot Grigio
- Roasted vegetables for added nutrition
This blog post covered how to make a delicious Instant Pot lasagna soup. We discussed the main ingredients, including beef, cheese, and spices. You learned step-by-step instructions for prep and cooking. We also shared tips for enhancing flavor and options for storage. Lastly, there were variations to suit different diets.
Now, you can enjoy a hearty meal any day. This soup brings comfort and taste, making cooking easy for everyone. Enjoy your time in the kitchen!
