Instant Pot Lasagna Recipe

Why I Love This Recipe

This Easy Instant Pot Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food made effortlessly in one pot. It’s a game-changer for lasagna lovers who want all the cheesy, hearty goodness without spending hours in the kitchen. The layering is simple, there’s no need to pre-boil noodles, and it’s ready in under 40 minutes! Plus, the Instant Pot locks in flavor and gives the perfect texture every time. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering, this recipe is always a hit.

Instant Pot Lasagna Recipe

A delicious, one-pot lasagna that’s ready in just 40 minutes. Perfect for busy nights when you crave classic Italian flavors without the hassle!

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: 541 kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb extra-lean ground beef
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp each salt & pepper
• 2 cups water, divided
• 12 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups baby spinach, chopped
• 1 (680mL) jar marinara sauce
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Beef

1. Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and allow it to preheat.
2. Once hot, add ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned.
4. Turn off sauté mode and remove two-thirds of the cooked beef mixture, setting it aside in a bowl.

Step 2: Layer the Lasagna

1. Add 1 cup of water to the bottom of the Instant Pot to prevent sticking.
2. Layer 4 broken lasagna noodles over the water.
3. Add half the ricotta cheese, half the chopped spinach, and one-third of the cooked beef mixture.
4. Pour in half the marinara sauce.
5. Repeat with another layer of noodles, the remaining ricotta cheese, spinach, and another third of the beef mixture.
6. Add a final layer of lasagna noodles, followed by the remaining marinara sauce and 1 more cup of water.

Step 3: Cook the Lasagna

1. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to the sealing position.
2. Press the pressure cook button and set it to high pressure for 5 minutes.
3. The Instant Pot will take about 5-10 minutes to come to pressure before cooking begins.

Step 4: Release Pressure and Add Cheese

1. Once the cooking time is complete, press the Cancel button and perform a quick release by carefully flipping the valve to venting using a spoon.
2. When the pressure gauge drops and the lid unlocks easily, open the Instant Pot.
3. Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese over the lasagna. Close the lid for 2 minutes to melt the cheese.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Carefully slice the lasagna into portions.
2. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, hearty goodness!

Tips and Tricks

1. Don’t Stir: Resist the urge to stir after layering ingredients in the Instant Pot. Stirring can cause the burn message to appear.
2. Noodle Placement: Break the noodles into smaller pieces to fit them snugly into the pot, ensuring even cooking.
3. Cheese Variation: Feel free to swap mozzarella with provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for extra flavor.
4. Add Veggies: Sneak in extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers to make the dish more wholesome.

Notes

• Vegetarian Option: Swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles, black beans, or extra vegetables for a vegetarian lasagna.
• Broth Option: Instead of water, use beef or vegetable broth for added flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Yes, regular lasagna noodles work perfectly since they cook directly in the sauce and water in the Instant Pot.

2. Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use dairy-free ricotta and mozzarella substitutes for a delicious dairy-free version.

3. What’s the best way to prevent sticking?
Adding water to the bottom of the pot and layering ingredients without stirring ensures nothing sticks or burns.

4. Can I use frozen ground beef?
It’s best to use thawed ground beef to ensure even cooking. If using frozen, sauté it for a few extra minutes to break it up before layering.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.

Freezing:

• Freeze: Allow the lasagna to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat from Frozen: Microwave for 6-7 minutes or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through.

This Easy Instant Pot Lasagna will save you time without sacrificing flavor. Perfectly layered, packed with cheese, and loaded with comforting goodness—this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection