Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

The Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna is the ultimate quick and hearty meal, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This one-pot dish combines delicious layers of lean ground beef, tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, and cheesy goodness. With minimal prep time and easy cleanup, it’s a crowd-pleaser that caters to everyone’s palate and makes dinnertime less of a hassle.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 10 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for last-minute dinners.
• One-Pot Wonder: Say goodbye to multiple dishes! The Instant Pot handles everything in one pot for easy cooking and cleanup.
• Flavorful Layers: Enjoy the savory combination of beef, cheese, and herbs that create a rich taste in every bite.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand!
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to satisfy both kids and adults alike with its cheesy goodness and familiar flavors.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing your Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna is easy when you have the right tools. Here are some essentials you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chopping board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: The star of the show! It cooks the lasagna quickly while infusing flavors beautifully.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Chopping Board & Knife: Essential for efficiently prepping your onions and garlic.

Ingredients

The easiest lasagna ever! Made with layers of meat, noodles, sauce, and two types of cheese, it’s a quick and easy one-pot meal.

• 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)

How to Make Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

Step 1: Sauté the Beef

1. Turn on the Sauté function on the Instant Pot. When the screen says hot, add the lean ground beef. Season it with salt and pepper.
2. Sauté until almost cooked through, breaking the beef into smaller pieces.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Continue cooking until the beef is browned and onions are softened.
4. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 2: Deglaze the Pot

1. Turn off the Sauté function.
2. Add a small amount of chicken broth to deglaze the pot.
3. Use a flat-bottomed spatula to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom.

Step 3: Layer Ingredients

1. Add in the remaining chicken broth along with marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, basil, parsley, onion powder, oregano, and optional red pepper flakes.
2. Evenly layer the short Mafalda pasta on top without stirring; gently push them down into the liquid.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

1. Close the lid securely and set the vent to sealing.
2. Pressure cook on Manual High pressure for 4 minutes. Expect about 15 minutes for it to come to pressure.

Step 5: Quick Release & Stir

1. At cooking’s end, perform a controlled quick release of pressure.
2. Once safe to open, stir everything together gently.
3. Mix in ricotta cheese before topping with grated mozzarella.
4. Set the lid askew on top for a few minutes to melt the cheese.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately with fresh parsley garnish if desired! Store leftovers in a sealed container in your refrigerator for up to four days.

This Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna will become your go-to recipe for comforting meals that don’t require hours in the kitchen! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

How to Serve Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

Serving your Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna is as easy as it is delicious! This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley on top adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Fresh basil can elevate the Italian flavors, bringing out the herbs in the dish.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing complement the lasagna well.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.

Serve with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
• Italian Focaccia: This soft bread adds a delightful texture and flavor to your meal.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

Making the perfect Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna involves a few simple tips that enhance the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some pointers to elevate your cooking experience.

• Boldly Season: Ensure you season each layer properly. Use salt and pepper generously for deeper flavors.
• Layer Smartly: When adding ingredients, layer them without stirring for better texture; this helps the pasta cook evenly.
• Adjust Cook Time: If using different types or shapes of pasta, adjust the cook time according to package instructions for best results.
• Let it Rest: Allow the lasagna to sit for a few minutes after cooking. This helps it set and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

Complementing your Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna with the right side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some ideas to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted bread infused with garlic butter enhances every bite.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic combination of romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing adds crunch.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide a healthy contrast.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly seasoned broccoli adds nutrition while balancing the richness of lasagna.
5. Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes paired with fresh mozzarella creates a refreshing side.
6. Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with herbs complements the flavors of the lasagna beautifully.
7. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables makes an exciting accompaniment.
8. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette offers a fresh note alongside hearty lasagna.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna, there are a few common errors that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Skipping the Deglazing Step: If you don’t deglaze the pot after sautéing, food bits may burn during pressure cooking. Always scrape the bottom before adding more ingredients.

• Overcrowding the Pot: Adding too much pasta or sauce can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the specified amounts for best results.

• Not Using Enough Liquid: The Instant Pot needs sufficient liquid to build pressure. Ensure you follow the recipe and check your broth levels.

• Stirring After Layering: Mixing ingredients after layering can lead to mushy pasta. Place everything in layers without stirring for optimal texture.

• Ignoring Cooking Times: Different pasta types have varying cook times. Follow the instructions carefully based on your pasta choice.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the lasagna to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warm.

• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.

• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna:

Can I use different types of meat in Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna?

Yes! You can substitute lean ground turkey or lamb for a different flavor profile while still enjoying a hearty meal.

What is the best way to customize my Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms between layers for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply replace the meat with your favorite plant-based protein, such as lentils or mushrooms, and ensure your cheeses are vegetarian-friendly.

How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna?

The actual pressure cooking time is only 4 minutes, but remember that it will take about 15 minutes for the pot to come to pressure first.

Can I use gluten-free pasta in this recipe?

Absolutely! Just adjust cooking time according to package instructions since gluten-free pasta may require different timing compared to regular pasta.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna is a fantastic one-pot meal that’s both easy and versatile. With its layers of savory meat, rich sauce, and creamy cheese, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients or make it vegetarian—this recipe is adaptable and perfect for busy weeknights!