The comforting aroma of spices and savory broth wafting through the kitchen has a way of making everything feel right in the world. If you’ve ever had that craving for a hearty lasagna but dread the lengthy prep time, this Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup is about to change the game for your weeknight dinners. Imagine all the beloved flavors of traditional lasagna—rich ground beef, tender noodles, and a medley of fragrant herbs—combined effortlessly into a quick and creamy soup that’s ready in just 45 minutes.
This recipe isn’t just perfect for busy nights; it’s also family-friendly and oh-so-satisfying, packing a delightful punch of comfort. With reachable ingredient substitutions, you can customize this dish to suit your taste, ensuring that every bowl you serve is as special as the last. Grab your Instant Pot, and let’s dive into a warm, flavorful experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Why is Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting Flavor: This recipe brings all the classic lasagna flavors you love, but in a cozy, soup format that’s incredibly satisfying.
Quick Preparation: In just 45 minutes, you can have a hearty meal on the table, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Customizable Options: With easy ingredient substitutions, you can adapt this dish to fit your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Family-Friendly: Everyone at the table will love this delicious twist on a beloved classic, ensuring happy faces come dinner time.
Simple Steps: Designed for home cooks of all skill levels, the step-by-step instructions ensure a stress-free cooking experience.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it alongside garlic bread or a Caesar salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress!
Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup Ingredients
For the Base
• Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing; you can use any neutral oil if you prefer.
• Ground Beef (1.75 lb) – The main protein; go for 85/15 for a nicely balanced flavor and leanness. Substitute with ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flair.
• Yellow Onion (1, diced) – Adds a layer of sweetness and depth to the dish.
• Garlic Cloves (6, minced) – Enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
• Chicken Broth (5 cups) – The savory base; vegetable broth is a great lighter substitute.
• Marinara Sauce (2 cups) – Provides that rich tomato flavor; Rao’s Homemade is a top choice for capturing the essence of lasagna.
• Diced Tomatoes (15 oz) – Adds texture and a touch of acidity to the soup.
• Dried Basil (1.25 tsp) – Infuses a fragrant Italian flavor; perfect for enhancing the soup’s profile.
• Parsley (1.25 tsp) – Offers a fresh herbal note to balance the richness.
• Onion Powder (0.5 tsp) – A flavor booster that complements the fresh onion.
• Oregano (0.75 tsp) – Another staple herb to intensify that Italian taste.
• Red Pepper Flakes (0.25 tsp) – For a mild kick; adjust according to your spice preference.
• Rosemary (0.25 tsp) – Adds an aromatic touch to the flavor complexity.
For the Soup’s Heart
• Lasagna Noodles (8, broken into 1-2 inch pieces) – The main starch for this dish; breaking them prevents clumping and ensures even cooking.
• Balsamic Vinegar (1 tsp) – Brightens the soup by cutting through the tomato acidity.
• Sugar (0.5 tsp) – Balances any acidity, enhancing the overall flavors.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste.
For the Creamy Topping
• Ricotta Cheese (1 cup) – Adds a creamy richness; Galbani is highly recommended for the best texture.
• Parmesan Cheese (0.5 cup) – Deepens the flavor and richness of the soup.
• Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup) – Melts into delightful creamy pockets throughout the dish.
• Fresh Parsley – For a pop of color and freshness as a garnish.
How to Make Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup
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Sauté olive oil in your Instant Pot on high heat for about 2 minutes, allowing it to shimmer and warm up. This is the perfect time to build the base flavors for your soup.
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Cook the ground beef for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thoroughly browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
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Mix in the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for another 2 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. You’ll love the aroma that fills your kitchen!
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Deglaze the pot by pouring in 1 cup of chicken broth. Scrape the bottom to release any browned bits, which adds depth of flavor to your soup.
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Combine the remaining broth, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and dried herbs into the pot. Stir gently to incorporate all the ingredients together.
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Layer the broken lasagna noodles on top of the soup base; do not stir. This helps prevent clumping and allows for even cooking in the pressure cooker.
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Lock the lid securely in place and set your Instant Pot to high pressure for 6 minutes. Get excited—dinner is just around the corner!
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Release the pressure quickly after cooking is complete by turning the valve, then carefully open the lid. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and sugar to brighten the flavors.
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Fold in the ricotta and parmesan cheese gently until well mixed. The soup will start to become beautifully creamy at this point!
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Season with salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top. This will create a delightful melty layer when you cover it lightly for 2-3 minutes.
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Ladle the lasagna soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately to enjoy the warm, comforting goodness!
Optional: Top with extra parmesan for an added burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup Variations
Feel free to mix it up and make this recipe your very own with these delicious and creative twists!
- Ground Turkey: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter alternative that’s still hearty and satisfying.
- Italian Sausage: For a little heat and extra flavor, use mild or spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef. It infuses the soup with irresistible seasoning.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free lasagna noodles to make this soup suitable for gluten-sensitive family members. You won’t miss the original!
- Vegetable Medley: Add chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to boost nutrition and color. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without compromising flavor.
- Creamy Spin: Mix in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end for an extra creamy texture. It takes comfort food to the next level!
- Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a pop of freshness. Just add them right before serving for the best flavor punch.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for those who crave a little heat. It’ll warm you from the inside out!
- Cheesy Delight: For cheese lovers, add extra mozzarella or try a blend of cheeses such as gouda or fontina for a unique twist on traditional flavors.
Make Ahead Options
These Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep! You can chop the onions and mince the garlic up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can brown the ground beef ahead of time; just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating it. When you’re ready to enjoy this hearty soup, simply combine the prepped ingredients with the remaining components in the Instant Pot, following the instructions to cook as normal. This makes the whole process feel effortless, ensuring you’ll have a delicious, comforting dinner ready with minimal hassle on busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and herbs for a stronger flavor that elevates your Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup.
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Avoid Overcooking Noodles: Layer the broken lasagna noodles on top of the soup base without stirring to prevent clumping; they’ll cook perfectly during pressure cooking.
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Adjust Soup Consistency: If the soup turns out too thick, add an additional cup of broth after cooking to achieve your desired creaminess.
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Cheese Melting Tip: For the best melting texture, add mozzarella to the top after cooking and cover lightly for a few minutes.
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Storing Leftovers: Keep cheese separate when refrigerating leftovers to maintain the creamy texture of your Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup upon reheating.
How to Store and Freeze Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup
Fridge: Keep the soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For best flavor, store cheese separately and add it just before serving.
Freezer: Portion the lasagna soup into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Undercook the noodles slightly to maintain texture upon reheating.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth to adjust consistency as needed.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the soup out for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
What to Serve with Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup?
Pair this soul-warming soup with delightful accompaniments that elevate your dining experience to a new level of comfort.
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Garlic Bread: Enjoy crispy, buttery slices that soak up the hearty broth and enhance the Italian flavors. It’s a classic pairing that never disappoints.
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Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft and cheesy, these delightful breadsticks create enticing mouthfuls that complement the creamy goodness of the soup perfectly.
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Simple Caesar Salad: Fresh romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing add a crisp contrast to the warm, rich soup for a well-rounded meal.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned, caramelized veggies like zucchini and bell peppers introduce another layer of nutrients and flavors, adding brightness to your plate.
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Italian Wine: A glass of Chianti or a smooth Sauvignon Blanc can beautifully enhance the savory, robust flavors of the soup, transforming dinner into a special occasion.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with warm, gooey cookies; their nostalgia and sweetness perfectly balance the savory richness of the lasagna soup.
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Pesto Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella and cherry tomatoes drizzled with basil pesto offer a refreshing, vibrant appetizer that’s easy to enjoy and full of flavor.
Each of these pairings promises to create an inviting table filled with comfort, making your Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup a delightful centerpiece for any meal!
Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ground beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture in your Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup, choose ground beef that’s 85% lean. This balance allows for a flavorful yet not overly greasy soup. If you prefer alternatives, ground turkey or Italian sausage can provide a delightful twist, adding different flavor profiles to your dish.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To maintain the creaminess of the cheese, I recommend keeping it separate from the soup until you’re ready to serve again. That way, you can ensure each bowl is deliciously creamy when reheated.
Can I freeze Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup?
Of course! To freeze your lasagna soup, first, undercook the noodles slightly during the initial recipe cooking time. Once cooled, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove. Add a splash of broth to help adjust the consistency if needed.
Help! My soup turned out too thick. What can I do?
No worries! If you find your lasagna soup too thick after cooking, simply add an extra cup of chicken broth, stirring gently to incorporate. Heat it over low heat until well combined. If adjusting during reheating, add broth gradually to achieve the texture you prefer. It’s all about finding that perfect creamy consistency!
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! To make your Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup gluten-free, simply substitute regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free options available at most grocery stores. Just be mindful that cooking times and methods may vary slightly—check the package instructions to ensure ideal results.
Can I add vegetables to the soup?
Very much so! If you’re looking to boost the nutrition of your Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Chop them into bite-sized pieces and stir them in during the cooking process. Cook until they’re tender, and enjoy the extra flavor and goodness!
Cozy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup: Weeknight Comfort in a Bowl
Equipment
- - Instant Pot
Ingredients
For the Base
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil or any neutral oil
- 1.75 pounds Ground Beef 85/15 preferred
- 1 Yellow Onion diced
- 6 cloves Garlic minced
- 5 cups Chicken Broth or vegetable broth
- 2 cups Marinara Sauce Rao's Homemade recommended
- 15 ounces Diced Tomatoes
- 1.25 teaspoons Dried Basil
- 1.25 teaspoons Parsley
- 0.5 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 0.75 teaspoons Oregano
- 0.25 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes adjust to taste
- 0.25 teaspoon Rosemary
For the Soup's Heart
- 8 pieces Lasagna Noodles broken into 1-2 inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon Balsamic Vinegar
- 0.5 teaspoon Sugar to balance acidity
- to taste Salt & Pepper for seasoning
For the Creamy Topping
- 1 cup Ricotta Cheese Galbani recommended
- 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese for topping
- to taste Fresh Parsley for garnish
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Sauté olive oil in your Instant Pot on high heat for about 2 minutes.
- Cook the ground beef for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Mix in the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté for another 2 minutes until transparent.
- Deglaze by pouring in 1 cup of chicken broth; scrape the bottom to release browned bits.
- Combine remaining broth, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and dried herbs; stir gently.
- Layer broken lasagna noodles on top of the soup base; do not stir.
- Lock the lid in place and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 6 minutes.
- Release pressure quickly after cooking; stir in balsamic vinegar and sugar.
- Fold in ricotta and parmesan cheese gently until well mixed.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste; sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley; serve immediately.