Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna recipe

Let’s be honest, weeknights can be chaotic. Between work, kids’ activities, and just general life admin, the thought of preparing a complex, multi-layered lasagna often feels like a distant dream. That’s where this Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna recipe swooped in and became my absolute weeknight savior. My family? They devoured it. Even my picky eaters, who usually dissect every dish, were asking for seconds. The best part? It’s truly “lazy” – minimal layering, minimal dishes, and maximum flavor, all thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot. If you’re looking for a comforting, satisfying, and incredibly easy lasagna that doesn’t compromise on taste, you’ve absolutely come to the right place. Get ready to experience lasagna night like never before!

Ingredients for the Easiest Instant Pot Lasagna Ever

This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients to create a truly delicious and satisfying lasagna. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• Meat:
  • 1 pound lean ground beef (80/20 blend works well for flavor)
  • ½ pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, casing removed) – Optional, but adds a depth of flavor
• Sauce & Liquids:
  • 24-28 ounces jarred marinara sauce (choose your favorite brand and flavor)
  • 1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup beef broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste – Enhances the richness of the sauce
• Cheese:
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese (whole milk ricotta is recommended for creaminess)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• Pasta & Aromatics:
  • 9 lasagna noodles, broken into roughly 2-inch pieces (no-boil lasagna noodles are ideal)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
• For Ricotta Mixture:
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for freshness and color)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions for Your Lazy Lasagna:

• Meat Variations: Feel free to use all ground beef, all Italian sausage, ground turkey, or even a combination of ground beef and pork. For a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with 1 pound of cooked and crumbled plant-based ground meat substitute or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.
• Sauce Customization: Marinara sauce is the classic choice, but you can experiment with different flavors like roasted garlic marinara, arrabiata for a spicy kick, or even a creamy vodka sauce. If you prefer making your own marinara from scratch, feel free to use about 3-4 cups of your homemade sauce.
• Cheese Choices: While mozzarella and ricotta are traditional, you can add other cheeses like provolone, fontina, or even a bit of shredded cheddar for a sharper flavor. For a richer ricotta mixture, consider adding a tablespoon of heavy cream or mascarpone cheese. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella, but be aware that the texture might be slightly less creamy.
• Pasta Options: No-boil lasagna noodles are truly the “lazy” secret weapon here. If you only have regular lasagna noodles, you’ll need to pre-cook them according to package directions before assembling the lasagna in the Instant Pot. You can also use other pasta shapes like penne or rotini if you prefer a more casserole-like consistency, though it will technically be a baked ziti or pasta bake rather than lasagna.
• Vegetable Boost: Sneak in extra vegetables by adding finely chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers when you sauté the onion and garlic. You can also layer in spinach or kale after the lasagna is cooked, letting the residual heat wilt the greens.
• Spice Level Adjustment: Control the heat by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes. If you’re sensitive to spice, omit them entirely. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the meat sauce.
• Fresh Herbs: While dried oregano and basil are convenient, fresh herbs will always elevate the flavor. If you have fresh oregano and basil on hand, use about 1 tablespoon of each, chopped, instead of the dried versions. Add fresh basil towards the end of cooking or as a garnish to preserve its vibrant flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna Success

This recipe is designed for simplicity and ease, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Follow these steps for a delicious and fuss-free Instant Pot lasagna:

Step 1: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (if using), ¼ teaspoon salt, and ⅛ teaspoon black pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated and set aside. This mixture will add creaminess and flavor to each layer of your lasagna.

Step 2: Brown the Meat and Sauté Aromatics

Turn your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function on “Normal” heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage (if using) to the pot. Break up the meat with a spoon and cook until it is browned, draining off any excess grease. This step is crucial for developing rich, meaty flavors.

Once the meat is browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, or until the onion becomes softened and translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Build the Lazy Lasagna in the Instant Pot

Turn off the “Sauté” function. This is important to prevent the “Burn” notice when pressure cooking.

Now, it’s time to layer our lazy lasagna directly in the Instant Pot. No pre-cooking noodles or intricate layering required!

1. Sauce Base: Pour about 1 cup of the marinara sauce into the bottom of the Instant Pot pot. Spread it evenly to create a base layer. This prevents the noodles from sticking to the bottom and helps ensure even cooking.
2. Noodle Layer: Arrange about ⅓ of the broken lasagna noodles in a single layer over the sauce. You don’t need to perfectly cover the entire surface; some gaps are fine. Breaking the noodles makes them easier to fit and ensures they cook evenly in the Instant Pot.
3. Meat Sauce Layer: Spoon about half of the meat sauce mixture over the noodles, spreading it out evenly.
4. Ricotta Layer: Dollop about half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the meat sauce. You don’t need to spread it perfectly; just distribute it in clumps across the layer.
5. Sprinkle of Cheese: Sprinkle about ¼ cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese and ¼ cup of the Parmesan cheese over the ricotta layer.
6. Repeat Layers: Repeat layers of noodles, meat sauce, ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese two more times, ending with a final layer of noodles topped with the remaining meat sauce.
7. Remaining Sauce and Liquid: Pour the remaining marinara sauce and the crushed tomatoes over the top layer of noodles and meat sauce. Add the tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir gently to combine the seasonings and ensure the noodles are mostly submerged in liquid. Pour the beef broth or water over everything. Important: Do not stir vigorously at this stage. Gentle distribution of liquid is sufficient.

Step 4: Pressure Cook the Lasagna

Secure the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the valve is set to “Sealing.” Cook on “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode for 25 minutes at high pressure.

Step 5: Natural Pressure Release

After the cooking cycle is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally pressure release for 10 minutes. This means letting the pressure release on its own without manually releasing the valve. After 10 minutes, manually release any remaining pressure by carefully moving the valve to the “Venting” position.

Step 6: Cheese and Broil (Optional, but Recommended)

Carefully remove the Instant Pot lid. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese and ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the lasagna.

Optional Broiling for a Golden Top: For a beautifully browned and bubbly cheese topping, you can broil the lasagna briefly. Important Safety Note: Instant Pot inner pots are generally not broiler-safe unless explicitly stated by the manufacturer. To broil safely, carefully transfer the inner pot to an oven-safe dish or transfer the lasagna to a broiler-safe baking dish. Broil in a preheated oven on the “Low Broil” setting for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Watch it closely to prevent burning.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let the lasagna rest in the Instant Pot (or baking dish) for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the lasagna to set up slightly, making it easier to slice and serve, and also prevents burning your mouth! Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired, and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts for Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna (Approximate)

(Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For precise nutritional data, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.)

Servings: Approximately 8 servings

Calories per serving: Approximately 450-550 calories

Approximate Macronutrient Breakdown per serving:

• Protein: 30-35 grams
• Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams
• Fat: 20-30 grams

Important Considerations:

• These values are estimates and can vary significantly based on the type of ground beef used (lean vs. regular), the fat content of the sausage and cheeses, and the specific brand of marinara sauce.
• Serving sizes can also impact calorie and nutrient counts.
• If you are following a specific dietary plan, it is always recommended to calculate the nutritional information based on your exact ingredients using a reliable nutrition calculator.

Preparation Time Breakdown for Lazy Lasagna

This recipe is all about speed and convenience. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate time involved:

• Prep Time: 20-25 minutes (This includes chopping vegetables, browning meat, preparing the ricotta mixture, and layering the lasagna in the Instant Pot.)
• Cook Time (Pressure Cooking): 25 minutes
• Pressure Release Time (Natural Release): 10 minutes
• Optional Broiling Time: 2-3 minutes
• Resting Time: 10-15 minutes

Total Time (Approximate): 1 hour 5 minutes to 1 hour 18 minutes

As you can see, from start to finish, you can have a delicious and satisfying lasagna on the table in just over an hour, most of which is hands-off cooking time thanks to the Instant Pot! This makes it a fantastic option for weeknight dinners when time is of the essence.

How to Serve Your Delicious Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna is a complete and satisfying meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes to create a balanced and delightful dinner. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Classic Salad Companions:
  • Simple Green Salad: A light and refreshing green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a crisp contrast to the richness of the lasagna.
  • Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, Parmesan cheese, and creamy Caesar dressing is always a crowd-pleaser.
  • Italian Chopped Salad: A vibrant chopped salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, olives, red onion, and Italian dressing adds color and freshness.
• Bread Basket Delights:
  • Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is a must-have with lasagna for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
  • Breadsticks: Soft or crispy breadsticks are another great option for dipping and enjoying with the lasagna.
  • Focaccia: Fluffy focaccia bread, especially with herbs and olive oil, complements the Italian flavors of the lasagna perfectly.
• Vegetable Side Dishes:
  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or green beans add a healthy and flavorful side.
  • Steamed Vegetables: Steamed green beans, broccoli, or spinach are quick and easy vegetable options.
  • Garlic Knots: Soft and garlicky knots of dough are a fun and flavorful side, especially for kids.
• Dessert Pairings (For a complete Italian feast!):
  • Tiramisu: The classic Italian dessert, tiramisu, is a rich and decadent ending to your meal.
  • Cannoli: Crispy cannoli shells filled with sweet ricotta cream are another iconic Italian dessert.
  • Panna Cotta: Smooth and creamy panna cotta with berries or caramel sauce is a lighter yet elegant dessert option.
  • Gelato or Sorbetto: Refreshing gelato or sorbetto is a perfect way to end a hearty Italian meal, especially in warmer weather.
• Drinks to Complement:
  • Red Wine: A medium-bodied Italian red wine like Chianti or Montepulciano pairs beautifully with lasagna.
  • White Wine: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc is a refreshing alternative.
  • Sparkling Water with Lemon: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime is a light and refreshing choice.
  • Iced Tea: Unsweetened iced tea is another classic and refreshing beverage to serve with lasagna.

Additional Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

Here are five helpful tips to ensure your Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna is a resounding success every time:

1. Don’t Overfill the Instant Pot: It’s crucial not to overfill your Instant Pot beyond the maximum fill line, especially when pressure cooking. Overfilling can cause the Instant Pot to malfunction and may result in a “Burn” notice. Leave adequate headspace for pressure to build and steam to circulate properly.
2. Break the Noodles Strategically: Breaking the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces is key for even cooking in the Instant Pot. Aim for roughly 2-inch pieces. This allows them to soften and cook through properly without large, uncooked patches. Distribute the broken noodles relatively evenly in each layer.
3. Ensure Enough Liquid: Sufficient liquid is essential for pressure cooking and preventing the “Burn” notice. The combination of marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth (or water) provides enough liquid to cook the noodles and create a saucy lasagna. If you notice your sauce is very thick, you may need to add a little extra broth or water.
4. Natural Pressure Release is Your Friend: Allowing for a natural pressure release of at least 10 minutes after cooking is crucial for lasagna. It allows the lasagna to settle and the noodles to fully absorb the sauce and soften completely. A quick release might result in slightly tougher noodles.
5. Customize and Make it Your Own: This recipe is a fantastic base, but don’t be afraid to customize it to your family’s preferences! Experiment with different meats, cheeses, vegetables, sauces, and spice levels. Add mushrooms, spinach, olives, different types of sausage, or your favorite herbs. Once you master the basic technique, the possibilities are endless!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

Here are five common questions people ask when making Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna:

Q1: My Instant Pot is giving me a “Burn” notice. What did I do wrong?

A: The “Burn” notice typically indicates that there isn’t enough liquid at the bottom of the Instant Pot, or that food is stuck to the bottom and scorching. Here are a few things to check:
* Liquid Level: Ensure you added at least 1 cup of marinara sauce to the bottom layer as a base and that you added the beef broth or water as instructed.
* Tomato Paste: Tomato paste can sometimes contribute to the “Burn” notice if it settles directly on the bottom. Make sure it is well distributed within the sauce.
* Sauté Function: Always turn off the “Sauté” function before pressure cooking. Residual heat from sautéing can sometimes lead to scorching.
* Restart: If you get a “Burn” notice, cancel the pressure cooking, carefully release pressure, and check the bottom of the pot. If there’s scorching, you might need to transfer the lasagna to an oven-safe dish and bake it in the oven instead. In the future, ensure sufficient liquid and avoid excessive sautéing before pressure cooking.

Q2: Can I use regular lasagna noodles instead of no-boil noodles?

A: Yes, you can, but you will need to pre-cook regular lasagna noodles according to package directions until they are al dente. Drain them well and then proceed with layering the lasagna in the Instant Pot as described in the recipe. Pre-cooking is essential to prevent regular noodles from becoming gummy or undercooked in the Instant Pot. No-boil noodles are definitely the “lazy” and easier option for this recipe.

Q3: Can I make this lasagna vegetarian?

A: Absolutely! To make vegetarian Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna, simply omit the ground beef and Italian sausage. You can replace the meat with 1 pound of cooked and crumbled plant-based ground meat substitute or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach. Ensure the vegetables are cooked down a bit before layering to release excess moisture. You can also use a vegetarian marinara sauce and vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Q4: How do I store leftover Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna?

A: Leftover Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna stores beautifully in the refrigerator. Allow the lasagna to cool completely, then cover the Instant Pot inner pot tightly with a lid or plastic wrap, or transfer the lasagna to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions, or reheat larger portions in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also reheat it in the Instant Pot using the “Steam” function with a little water in the bottom of the pot, but oven reheating is generally preferred for maintaining texture.

Q5: Can I freeze Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna?

A: Yes, you can freeze Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna, although the texture of the ricotta cheese may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, let the lasagna cool completely. Cut it into individual portions or freeze the entire lasagna in a freezer-safe dish. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and bubbly, about 45-60 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions from frozen, but the texture might be less ideal.

Enjoy your incredibly easy and delicious Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna! It’s a weeknight win that the whole family will love.

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