Instant Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe
Lasagna is one of those comforting dishes that never fails to bring smiles to the dinner table. But let’s be honest: traditional lasagna can be quite time-consuming to prepare. Enter the Instant Pot Lasagna Soup! This innovative recipe captures all the hearty flavors of lasagna but in a quick, easy soup form. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this dish will warm both your heart and your belly.
Why Choose Instant Pot Lasagna Soup?
The Instant Pot is a game changer in the kitchen. It allows you to bring dishes to maturity in a fraction of the time, while also developing rich flavors that sometimes take hours to achieve when cooking traditionally. Lasagna soup is a prime candidate for this modern cooking method, as it melds together layers of flavors with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (such as rotini or penne)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Optional Add-Ins
- Sliced mushrooms
- Bell peppers
- Spinach or kale
- Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Meat
- Set your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function. Add ground beef or sausage, and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
- Toss in the diced onions and minced garlic, and sauté until the onions become translucent.
Step 2: Add the Liquid Ingredients
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth.
- Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Add the Pasta
- Stir in the uncooked pasta, making sure it’s submerged in the liquid.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
- Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to "Sealing."
- Press the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" button and set the timer for 5 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, do a quick release by carefully turning the valve to "Venting."
Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish
- Stir in the ricotta cheese until fully incorporated.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, and close the lid for a couple of minutes to let it melt in the residual heat.
- Once melted, give the soup a gentle stir.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the lasagna soup into bowls.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Lasagna Soup
- Mind Your Pasta: You can use any small pasta shape you prefer, but avoid larger shapes or traditional lasagna noodles, as they may require different cooking times.
- Customize to Taste: Feel free to customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. Spinach and mushrooms make excellent additions.
- Garnishes: For extra flavor, top your soup with additional cheese or a drizzle of olive oil.
Conclusion
This Instant Pot Lasagna Soup is a delightful and comforting twist on a classic favorite. It combines the irresistible flavors of lasagna in a warm, hearty bowl that comes together in a matter of minutes. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy cold evening, this recipe is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy your delicious lasagna soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Happy cooking! 🍽️
