Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna Recipe

If you love lasagna but dread the time and dishes it usually requires, Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna is about to become your new best friend! This recipe turns all the rich, cheesy flavors of classic lasagna into an unbelievably easy one-pot family dinner—no layering or oven needed.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t be fooled by the “lazy” in Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna—each of these ingredients brings delicious flavor and that signature lasagna coziness. With pantry staples plus a few fresh additions, you’ll build layers of taste and texture effortlessly.

• Olive oil (optional): Use just a splash to prevent sticking and add richness, especially with lean meats.
• Lean ground beef or ground Italian sausage: The hearty base—go for sausage if you want more spice, or beef for classic flavor.
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper: Season your meat from the start to bring out savory flavors.
• Yellow onion: Diced for sweetness and depth—skip chopping if you’re really in a rush, but it’s worth it!
• Garlic: Five cloves bring robust, authentic Italian backbone (don’t skimp!).
• Chicken broth: Adds richness and helps infuse every bite with flavor—water works in a pinch.
• Marinara sauce: Choose your favorite jarred variety for bold tomato base and herb notes.
• Diced tomatoes: Canned tomatoes boost sauciness and that classic lasagna tang.
• Dried basil, dried parsley, onion powder, oregano, red pepper flakes: The herb-and-spice blend that ties it all together; red pepper flakes add the perfect little kick (optional).
• Short Mafalda pasta (mini lasagna noodles): They’re ruffled like classic lasagna, but any short pasta will do—see notes for substitutions.
• Ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese): Creamy and rich, this goes in at the end for a signature lasagna finish.
• Freshly grated mozzarella cheese: Melty, stringy, and utterly essential for that lasagna vibe.
• Fresh parsley and parmesan cheese (garnish, optional): Add freshness and a salty finish, but totally optional for those ultra-lazy nights.

Variations

The beauty of Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna is how endlessly customizable it is. Make it your own based on what’s in your pantry, your family’s tastes, or any dietary twists you’d like to try. Here are a few delicious ideas!

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and sauté mushrooms, zucchini, or chopped spinach for a savory, veggie-packed alternative.
• Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage and double up on the red pepper flakes for a lasagna that bites back—in the best way.
• Cheese Swap: Sub in cottage cheese for ricotta, or add shredded provolone for an extra gooey, cheesy layer.
• Gluten-Free: Choose a short, gluten-free pasta and check that all your other ingredients are safe for your needs—it works surprisingly well!
• Pasta Adventure: No Mafalda? Penne, rotini, or broken regular lasagna noodles all deliver that signature texture (just watch the liquid ratio).

How to Make Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

Step 1: Sauté the Meat, Onion & Garlic

Start by turning on the Sauté function on your Instant Pot. Once the insert feels hot, add your ground beef or sausage, season with salt and pepper, and use a spatula to break it up as it cooks. When it’s nearly done, stir in your onion and garlic. Continue sautéing until the onions are soft, everything smells incredible, and the beef is cooked through. If there’s excess grease, drain it away—you can use a paper towel and kitchen tongs for fewer dishes.

Step 2: Deglaze & Layer the Flavor

Turn off the Sauté function and carefully pour in a little bit of broth. Use a flat spatula to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom—this prevents the dreaded Instant Pot burn warning and adds even more flavor. Pour in the rest of the broth, then layer on the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, dried herbs and spices. Don’t stir—let the liquids and seasonings create layers!

Step 3: Add the Pasta (No Peeking!)

Scatter your mini lasagna noodles (or your chosen pasta) on top of the sauce in a loose layer, gently pressing them down so they’re moistened but not fully submerged. Resist the urge to stir! Keeping the pasta mostly above the sauce ensures it cooks evenly without sticking to the pot’s bottom.

Step 4: Pressure Cook to Perfection

Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the vent to sealing. Pressure cook on High for 4 minutes—that’s it! (Don’t forget, it takes about 15 minutes to come to pressure.) Once cooking ends, carefully do a controlled quick release, letting steam out a bit at a time. Open the lid, inhale that lasagna aroma, and prepare for the grand finale.

Step 5: Add the Cheeses & Finish

Give everything a gentle stir, then fold in the ricotta (or cottage cheese) for creaminess. Sprinkle mozzarella all over the top and set the pot’s lid on loosely for a few minutes—just long enough to melt the cheese into a bubbly, gooey blanket. Sprinkle fresh parsley and parmesan over each serving for that final Italian flourish!

How to Serve Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

Garnishes

Scatter plenty of chopped fresh parsley and a generous shower of grated parmesan cheese over each bowl just before serving. A twist of black pepper or even a dash of red pepper flakes make the flavors pop—even the simplest garnish makes Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna look and taste special!

Side Dishes

Keep it classic with a crisp green salad tossed in vinaigrette or some garlicky sautéed greens. Pillowy garlic bread or warm Italian rolls are practically required for sopping up every bit of extra sauce—don’t resist!

Creative Ways to Present

Scoop portions into shallow bowls for a rustic, cozy feel, or serve in mini cast iron skillets for an Instagram-worthy twist at gatherings. For a family-style touch, let everyone top their own bowl of Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna with extra cheese, chili flakes, or herbs from a little DIY “lasagna bar.”

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Just scoop any leftover Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. It’s perfect for meal prepping ahead, and the flavors deepen as it sits—maybe even better the next day!

Freezing

This lasagna freezes like a dream! Let portions cool, then pack in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to enjoy again.

Reheating

For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or marinara to hydrate the noodles and keep things saucy. Top with extra cheese before microwaving for maximum comfort.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna is the kind of comforting, easy dinner you’ll crave on repeat. It’s all about bringing nostalgia and flavor to the table without the stress or mess—so grab your Instant Pot, get cozy, and treat yourself to a big bowl of this stress-free, soul-warming classic!

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