Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

This Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna is the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you crave comforting Italian flavors without the hassle. With just a few simple ingredients and the magic of the Instant Pot, you can create a delicious meal that everyone will love. It’s an ideal option for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy date night at home. What makes this lazy lasagna truly special is its ability to deliver rich flavors in record time!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Meat Sauce
• For Cooking
• For the Pasta
• For Cheese
• For Garnish
• How to Make Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna
• Step 1: Sauté the Meat
• Step 2: Add the Sauce
• Step 3: Add Liquid & Seasoning
• Step 4: Add the Pasta
• Step 5: Pressure Cook
• Step 6: Natural Release
• Step 7: Stir & Add Cheese
• Step 8: Serve
• How to Serve Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs
• Pair with a Salad
• Accompany with Bread
• Enjoy with Wine
• How to Perfect Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna
• Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna
• Reheating Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different types of pasta?
• How do I customize my Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna?
• Is Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna healthy?
• What should I serve with this dish?
• Can I make this dish vegetarian?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in a fraction of the time it takes to make traditional lasagna.
• One-Pot Wonder: Say goodbye to multiple pans; everything cooks in one Instant Pot for easy cleanup.
• Flavorful Layers: Enjoy classic lasagna flavors with layers of cheese, beef, and pasta sauce.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite cheeses or add veggies for extra nutrition.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools for this Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: The star of this recipe, it cooks food quickly while infusing it with flavor.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for sautéing and mixing ingredients without scratching your pot.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results.

Ingredients

This easy one-pot lazy lasagna delivers all the classic lasagna flavors with none of the work! Made with ground beef, pasta sauce, ricotta, Parmesan, and penne pasta, it comes together in just minutes using the Instant Pot.

For the Meat Sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra-virgin recommended)
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 jar (24-26 oz) traditional pasta sauce

For Cooking

• 3 cups water
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Pasta

• 1 box (16 oz) penne pasta

For Cheese

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

Step 1: Sauté the Meat

Turn on the Sauté function on your Instant Pot. Add olive oil along with ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and crumbled. If there’s excess grease, drain it before moving on.

Step 2: Add the Sauce

Pour in the jar of traditional pasta sauce. Stir well to combine it evenly with the cooked beef mixture.

Step 3: Add Liquid & Seasoning

Pour in 3 cups of water. Then add dried basil, Italian seasoning, parsley, and salt. Stir everything together until mixed thoroughly.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

Layer the uncooked penne pasta evenly on top of the sauce mixture. Do not stir! Gently press down so that most of the pasta is submerged in liquid.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set the valve to Sealing. Pressure cook on High for 5 minutes. Note that it will take about 10 minutes for your Instant Pot to come to pressure before cooking begins.

Step 6: Natural Release

Once cooking is complete, let the pressure naturally release for 5-10 minutes:
1. 5 minutes for al dente pasta.
2. 8 minutes for softer texture.
3. 10 minutes for very soft pasta.

Step 7: Stir & Add Cheese

Turn the valve to Venting to release any remaining pressure carefully. Open the lid and give everything a good stir. Add ricotta and Parmesan cheese; mix until melted and well combined.

Step 8: Serve

Serve immediately! Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna!

How to Serve Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

Serving Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna is easy and versatile. You can customize it to suit your taste and make it a hit at any gathering.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Basil Leaves: Add fresh basil leaves to enhance the classic Italian taste.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad complements the richness of lasagna perfectly.
• Garden Salad: A light garden salad offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty dish.

Accompany with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread for dipping into the sauce.
• Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks add an extra touch and are great for soaking up flavors.

Enjoy with Wine

• Red Wine: A glass of red wine pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the lasagna.
• Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water adds a refreshing fizz.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

To achieve the best results with your Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Lean Meat: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce grease and enhance flavor.
• Layer Pasta Carefully: Place penne pasta on top without stirring to ensure even cooking.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Modify pressure cooking times based on your preferred pasta texture.
• Add Cheese Last: Mixing in cheese after cooking allows for better melting and creamy consistency.
• Experiment with Sauces: Try different pasta sauces for unique flavor profiles each time you make this dish.

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Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

Complementing your Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna with side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Classic garlic bread is perfect for mopping up extra sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing balance the meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted veggies adds color and nutrients to your plate.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that pairs well.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms are a delightful appetizer before the main course.
6. Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes and herbs, bruschetta offers a tasty bite alongside lasagna.
7. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, and olives brings variety to your table.
8. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and balances the richness of lasagna.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Not browning the meat can result in a less flavorful dish. Always sauté the beef with onions and garlic for maximum flavor.
• Not Layering Properly: Stirring the pasta into the sauce may lead to uneven cooking. Layer the uncooked penne on top without stirring.
• Ignoring Liquid Measurements: Using too little water can burn the pasta. Ensure you measure accurately to maintain proper consistency.
• Not Allowing Natural Release: Quick-releasing pressure may cause overcooked pasta. Follow natural release times based on your texture preference.
• Omitting Seasonings: Skipping herbs can make your lasagna bland. Don’t forget to include basil, Italian seasoning, and parsley for that classic taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

• Let it cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a serving in a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water and stir occasionally until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s what you might want to know about making Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna.

Can I use different types of pasta?

You can! While penne is recommended, any short pasta works well. Just adjust cooking time if needed.

How do I customize my Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or swap ground beef for turkey or sausage for varied flavors.

Is Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna healthy?

Yes! This recipe is packed with protein from beef and cheese while being lower in carbs if you use whole wheat pasta.

What should I serve with this dish?

Pair your lazy lasagna with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with lentils or your favorite plant-based protein for a delicious vegetarian version of Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna is an easy yet satisfying meal that brings all the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna without the hassle. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its deliciousness!