On a chilly evening, nothing warms the heart more than a steaming bowl of soup, and this Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup hits all the right notes. Imagine the comforting aroma of savory ground beef mingling with rich marinara sauce, garlic, and the scents of aromatic herbs like basil and oregano wafting through your kitchen. This dish takes all the beloved flavors of classic lasagna and transforms them into a delightful soup that’s ready in under an hour.
Perfect for those busy weeknights when you’re craving something hearty yet simple, this recipe is a great way to bring your family together. With tender pasta and creamy cheeses melting into every spoonful, you’ll find it feels both indulgent and nourishing. Plus, it’s versatile enough to impress guests or become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. Grab your Instant Pot, and let’s dive into making this soul-soothing meal that will leave you wanting more!
Why is Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup a Must-Try?
Hearty Comfort: This soup captures all the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna in a bowl, making it perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, it’s a time-saver that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Family-Friendly: Kid-approved, it’s great for bringing everyone to the table for a delicious meal.
Versatile Base: Easily customizable; swap the ground beef for turkey or go vegetarian with lentils for added health benefits!
Melted Goodness: The layer of creamy ricotta and gooey mozzarella creates an inviting finish that will leave your tastebuds singing.
Satisfyingly Nourishing: With nutritious ingredients and rich flavors, you’ll enjoy every comforting spoonful of this cozy dish, ideal for those craving delicious home-cooked meals. For more quick and tasty ideas, check out our ultra-easy weeknight dinners.
Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Olive Oil – Adds richness; can use any cooking oil.
• Ground Beef (1.75 lb) – Provides protein and flavor; can substitute with ground turkey or Italian sausage.
• Yellow Onion (1, diced) – Adds depth and sweetness; no direct substitute; can use shallots.
• Garlic Cloves (6, minced) – Enhances flavor; fresh garlic preferred for the best aroma.
• Chicken Broth (5 cups) – Serves as the soup base; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• Marinara Sauce (2 cups) – Adds tomato flavor; opt for a high-quality brand for the best taste.
• Diced Tomatoes (15 oz can) – Provides acidity and texture; fresh tomatoes are great when in season.
• Dried Basil (1.25 tsp) – Infuses herbal notes; fresh basil can be used if available.
• Dried Parsley (1.25 tsp) – Enhances flavor; fresh parsley can make it more vibrant.
• Onion Powder (0.5 tsp) – Complements onion’s flavor; skip it if you prefer.
• Dried Oregano (0.75 tsp) – Provides Italian seasoning depth; can use Italian seasoning as an alternative.
• Red Pepper Flakes (0.25 tsp) – Adds a kick of heat; omit for a milder taste.
• Dried Rosemary (0.25 tsp) – Offers earthy notes; can use thyme as a substitute.
For the Noodles and Acidity
• Lasagna Noodles (8, broken into pieces) – Forms the soup base; gluten-free noodles fit for a GF option.
• Balsamic Vinegar (1 tsp) – Brightens the flavor profile; red wine vinegar will work as a substitute.
• Sugar (0.5 tsp) – Balances acidity; omit if desired or use honey as an alternative.
• Salt and Pepper – Season to taste.
For the Creamy Finish
• Ricotta Cheese (1 cup) – Adds creaminess and richness; cottage cheese can be a lighter option.
• Parmesan Cheese (0.5 cup) – Infuses a nutty flavor; substitute with Pecorino Romano if preferred.
• Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup) – Provides creaminess; any melting cheese can replace it.
• Fresh Parsley – For garnish; fresh herbs elevate presentation.
This Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup promises to bring warmth, flavor, and comfort to your dinner table!
How to Make Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup
Sauté Ingredients: Heat olive oil in the Instant Pot using the sauté mode. Add the ground beef and cook until browned (about 7-8 minutes). Once browned, drain excess fat for a healthier base.
Add Aromatics: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant (approximately 2 minutes). This combination creates an aromatic start that infuses the soup with flavor.
Deglaze Pot: Turn off the sauté function, add 1 cup of chicken broth, and scrape up any brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This step is essential to prevent the Instant Pot from showing a “burn” notice.
Combine Base Ingredients: Pour in the remaining chicken broth, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and stir in the dried basil, parsley, oregano, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Bring those comforting flavors to life!
Layer Noodles: Break the lasagna noodles into 1-2 inch pieces and gently place on top of the liquid without stirring. This helps prevent the noodles from clumping together while cooking.
Cook: Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 6 minutes. After the cooking time is up, perform a quick release of the steam, releasing all that delicious aroma into your kitchen.
Finish Soup: Stir in the balsamic vinegar and sugar to brighten the flavor. Gently fold in the ricotta and parmesan cheese until combined. Then sprinkle mozzarella on top and cover briefly to allow it to melt.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy while warm. This cozy dish is perfect for sharing and savoring with loved ones.
Optional: For an extra touch, serve your lasagna soup with a sprinkle of fresh basil on top.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup
Deglazing Matters: Always deglaze your pot after sautéing to prevent a “burn” warning, ensuring an even cook for your lasagna soup.
Noodle Handling: Layer the broken lasagna noodles on top of the liquid without stirring before cooking to avoid clumping and ensure a perfect texture.
Ricotta Timing: Add ricotta cheese after pressure cooking to prevent curdling, promoting a creamy, smooth consistency in your cozy lasagna soup.
Flavor Adjustments: Taste your soup before serving; adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more herbs to make those flavors shine.
Storage Tips: To keep your soup fresh, store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months, prepping noodles slightly less than fully cooked if freezing.
Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these satisfying twists!
Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty and plant-based alternative. You won’t miss the meat with this savory combination!
Bolder Flavor: Swap ground beef for Italian sausage to enhance the soup with a delightful spice. It gives a robust kick that will tantalize your taste buds!
Extra Veggies: Incorporate fresh spinach or diced zucchini into the mix for a nutritious boost. Stir them in towards the end of cooking for vibrant color and taste.
Creamy Spin: For an even creamier consistency, add in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving. This luxurious addition will take your soup to the next level!
Kid-Friendly Swaps: Use small pasta shapes like mini shells or macaroni instead of lasagna noodles to make it more fun for kids to eat. They’ll love it even more!
Herb Freshness: Substitute dried herbs with fresh ones—like basil, oregano, and parsley—adding them towards the end for a burst of brightness and fragrance.
Spice it Up: If you enjoy a little heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to amp up the flavor profile. Just a little goes a long way!
Cheesy Goodness: Mix in a blend of your favorite cheeses—such as gouda or fontina—into the soup for a unique twist on the classic creamy finish.
How to Store and Freeze Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days to preserve freshness. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding broth if needed for desired consistency.
Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. To maintain texture, slightly undercook the lasagna noodles before freezing; they’ll finish cooking when reheated.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop; stir in extra broth to achieve your preferred soup consistency while reheating.
Leftovers: When stored properly, the flavors of the Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup deepen over time, making leftovers just as delicious!
What to Serve with Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup?
Creating a delightful meal is easy when you pair this comforting dish with the right accompaniments.
Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread perfectly complements the rich flavors of the soup. Dip and savor every bite!
Caesar Salad: A fresh, crisp Caesar salad adds a lightness to your meal, balancing the hearty soup with its tangy dressing and crunchy croutons.
Cheesy Breadsticks: These warm and gooey sticks are irresistible alongside lasagna soup, perfect for soaking up that delicious broth.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and roasted veggies bring a pop of color and nutrition, enhancing the meal’s heartiness without overwhelming flavors.
Red Wine: A smooth Italian red wine enhances the meal, elevating the dining experience with its deep fruit flavors and earthy undertones.
Tiramisu: Cap off your meal with this classic dessert; its rich coffee and creamy layers provide a delightful contrast to the savory soup.
Make Ahead Options
These Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup components are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to prep in advance and save time! You can chop the onions, mince the garlic, and even brown the ground beef up to 24 hours ahead; store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the marinara sauce and broth mixture can be combined and refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just heat everything in the Instant Pot, layer the broken lasagna noodles on top, and cook on high pressure for 6 minutes. This way, you’ll enjoy all the comforting flavors of lasagna soup with minimal effort and just as delicious results!
Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe FAQs
How can I tell if my ingredients are fresh enough to use?
Absolutely! For the freshest ingredients, choose ground beef that is bright red in color and has no unpleasant odor. For vegetables like onions and garlic, look for firm texture without dark spots or signs of softness. Diced tomatoes should be well sealed and undamaged. Sourcing ingredients that are in prime condition will maximize the flavor of your Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of this lasagna soup?
Very straightforward! Store your Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, use the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore its comforting consistency as you warm it up for lunch or dinner the next day.
Can I freeze this soup, and if so, what’s the best method?
Certainly! To freeze your Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup, allow it to cool completely. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To prevent mushy noodles, I recommend slightly undercooking the noodles before freezing; they will cook perfectly when you reheat the soup later.
What should I do if my soup is too thick after cooking?
Of course! If your soup turns out thicker than expected, simply stir in some additional chicken broth or water until you achieve your desired consistency. It’s really about personal preference, so feel free to adjust it to your liking. This will not only help with consistency but can also enhance the flavor of your Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for guests with dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free lasagna noodles to make this Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup suitable for those with gluten intolerance. Also, if someone is lactose-intolerant, alternative cheeses, like plant-based or lactose-free options, can be wonderful substitutes for ricotta and mozzarella. Always check ingredient labels for allergens when cooking for others!
Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup: Comfort in Every Spoonful
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sauté Ingredients: Heat olive oil in the Instant Pot using the sauté mode. Add the ground beef and cook until browned (about 7-8 minutes). Once browned, drain excess fat for a healthier base.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant (approximately 2 minutes). This combination creates an aromatic start that infuses the soup with flavor.
- Deglaze Pot: Turn off the sauté function, add 1 cup of chicken broth, and scrape up any brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This step is essential to prevent the Instant Pot from showing a 'burn' notice.
- Combine Base Ingredients: Pour in the remaining chicken broth, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and stir in the dried basil, parsley, oregano, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Bring those comforting flavors to life!
- Layer Noodles: Break the lasagna noodles into 1-2 inch pieces and gently place on top of the liquid without stirring. This helps prevent the noodles from clumping together while cooking.
- Cook: Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 6 minutes. After the cooking time is up, perform a quick release of the steam, releasing all that delicious aroma into your kitchen.
- Finish Soup: Stir in the balsamic vinegar and sugar to brighten the flavor. Gently fold in the ricotta and parmesan cheese until combined. Then sprinkle mozzarella on top and cover briefly to allow it to melt.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy while warm. This cozy dish is perfect for sharing and savoring with loved ones.