Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

This Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna is the perfect dish for those busy weeknights when you crave comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe offers all the rich flavors of traditional lasagna but requires minimal effort. It’s great for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in. With just a few ingredients and your Instant Pot, you can whip up a hearty meal that everyone will love.

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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 Main Dish
• 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
• Family Style
• Individual Portions
• With Garlic Bread
• Side Salad
• Wine Pairing
• Leftovers
• 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
• What Makes Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna Different?
• Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
• Is Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna Healthy?
• How Long Does It Take to Cook?
• Can I Customize the Recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Prepare this dish in under 35 minutes from start to finish.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time enjoying your meal and less time washing dishes.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will appreciate the familiar flavors of lasagna.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your lazy lasagna by adding veggies or swapping out proteins.
• Comforting Flavor: Enjoy all the rich, cheesy goodness of traditional lasagna without the hassle.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to make your Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna a success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: The star of this recipe, it allows for quick cooking while preserving flavors.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy for each ingredient, leading to consistent results.

Ingredients

For the Main Dish

• 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
• 3 cups water
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 box (16 oz) penne pasta
• 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 the Instant Pot. Add olive oil, ground beef, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook and crumble the beef until no longer pink. Turn off Sauté and drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 2: Add the Sauce

Pour in the jar of pasta sauce and stir to combine with the beef.

Step 3: Add Liquid & Seasoning

Pour in the water, then add basil, Italian seasoning, parsley, and salt. Stir well to evenly incorporate all ingredients.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

Evenly layer the dry, uncooked penne pasta on top of the sauce mixture. Do not stir. Gently press down on the pasta to ensure it’s mostly submerged in liquid.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

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

Step 6: Natural Release

Let the pressure naturally release for 5-10 minutes:
1. Choose 5 minutes for al dente pasta.
2. Choose 8 minutes for a softer texture.
3. Choose 10 minutes for very soft pasta.

Step 7: Stir & Add Cheese

Turn the valve to Venting to release any remaining pressure. Open the lid carefully and stir everything together. Add ricotta and Parmesan cheese while stirring until melted and well combined.

Step 8: Serve

Enjoy immediately! Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.

How to Serve Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

Serving Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna is a delightful experience that can be as casual or refined as you wish. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Family Style

• Serve the lasagna directly from the Instant Pot, allowing everyone to help themselves. This makes for a relaxed dining atmosphere.

Individual Portions

• For a more refined presentation, spoon out portions into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh parsley for a pop of color.

With Garlic Bread

• Pair your lasagna with warm garlic bread. It’s perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce and adds a satisfying crunch.

Side Salad

• A fresh side salad balances the richness of the lasagna. Consider a simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.

Wine Pairing

• Serve with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot. The wine enhances the flavors of the lasagna and makes for an elegant touch.

Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave or oven for quick meals throughout the week.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

To make your Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna even better, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh ingredients elevate your dish. Opt for high-quality pasta sauce and cheeses for richer flavors.
• Layer Carefully: When adding pasta, ensure it’s evenly spread out and submerged in liquid to cook properly without sticking.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on your texture preference, adjust the natural release time to achieve your desired pasta softness.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Mix different cheeses like mozzarella or provolone for added flavor and creaminess.
• Add Veggies: For added nutrition, consider mixing in cooked spinach or zucchini before serving.
• Make Ahead: Prepare components ahead of time and assemble them in the Instant Pot just before cooking for quicker weeknight meals.

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Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

Complementing your Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna with tasty side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing adds freshness and crunch.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly seasoned broccoli provides a nutritious contrast to the rich lasagna.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until golden brings warmth and depth.
4. Garlic Knots: Soft dough knots brushed with garlic butter offer a delicious side that pairs perfectly with lasagna.
5. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, olives, and cheeses creates an appetizer that complements Italian flavors.
6. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze adds brightness to your plate.
7. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic reduction make for an easy-to-eat side dish.
8. French Fries: Crispy fries provide comfort food vibes alongside your hearty lasagna meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna, a few common mistakes can spoil the dish. Here are some to keep in mind:

• Not Sautéing the Meat Properly: Skipping this step can lead to unevenly cooked meat and flavors. Always sauté until the beef is browned and crumbly.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Following the pressure cooking time precisely is crucial. If you cook it too long, your pasta will turn mushy, ruining the texture.
• Ignoring Liquid Ratios: Adding too little or too much liquid can affect the cooking process. Stick to the recipe for optimal results; this ensures the pasta cooks evenly.
• Forgetting to Layer Ingredients: Mixing everything at once may prevent even cooking. Layer your ingredients as instructed for best flavor and texture.
• Using Low-Quality Sauce: The sauce is vital for flavor. Choose a good quality traditional pasta sauce to enhance your lasagna’s taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Make sure to label with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Makes Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna Different?

Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna simplifies the classic dish by using penne pasta instead of layers of lasagna sheets, saving time without sacrificing taste.

Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?

Yes! You can substitute other short pastas like rotini or farfalle. Just adjust cooking times based on the pasta used.

Is Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna Healthy?

With lean ground beef and ricotta cheese, this dish can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. You can also use ground turkey or plant-based meat for healthier options.

How Long Does It Take to Cook?

The total time includes about 10 minutes for the Instant Pot to come to pressure plus 5 minutes of pressure cooking, making it quick and easy!

Can I Customize the Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or use different cheeses based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna is a delightful twist on a classic favorite that combines ease and flavor into one pot. It’s perfect for busy weeknights but versatile enough for family gatherings. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients!