Introduction
This Instant Pot lasagna brings a classic comfort food to your table in under an hour, with no need to boil noodles separately. You get all the rich, layered flavors of a traditional baked lasagna in a fraction of the time. It’s the perfect solution for a delicious, satisfying weeknight dinner.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes (plus pressure release time)
- Total Time: Approximately 50 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 cup Ricotta cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 24 oz jar pasta sauce
- 9 No-boil lasagna noodles ( depends on the size)
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix the Ricotta cheese, eggs, 1 cup shredded Mozzarella, dried basil, oregano, thyme, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Set aside.
- Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté.” Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook, breaking up the meat, until the beef is browned and the onion is tender, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Drain any excess fat.
- Turn off the “Sauté” function. Stir the entire jar of pasta sauce into the cooked beef mixture.
- Pour 1 1/2 cups of water into the pot and give everything a quick stir, scraping the bottom to ensure nothing is stuck.
- Begin layering. Place 3 no-boil lasagna noodles over the sauce mixture, breaking them as needed to fit in a single layer.
- Spoon and spread one-third of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles.
- Spoon and spread one-third of the meat sauce over the ricotta layer.
- Repeat the layering sequence two more times: noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Lock the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and select “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on HIGH pressure for 20 minutes. Note: The pot will take about 10 minutes to come to pressure.
- Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Carefully remove the lid. Let the lasagna sit for 5-10 minutes to set before slicing and serving.
Variations
- Vegetable Boost: Add a layer of fresh spinach or thinly sliced zucchini or mushrooms between the cheese and meat layers.
- Different Meat: Substitute the ground beef with Italian sausage, ground turkey, or a plant-based meat alternative.
- Cheesy Crust: After pressure cooking, sprinkle on extra cheese and use the “Air Fry” lid or broil in an oven for a few minutes to create a crispy, browned top.
- Individual Portions: Layer the ingredients in smaller, oven-safe dishes that fit inside the Instant Pot on a trivet for personal-sized lasagnas.
Tips for Success
- Prevent Burn: Ensure you thoroughly deglaze the pot with water after sautéing and give a good stir to loosen any bits from the bottom before layering.
- Noodle Fit: It’s okay to break the no-boil noodles to fit them into the pot. Gaps are fine; the noodles will expand during cooking.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the lasagna to sit for 5-10 minutes after cooking is crucial for clean slices and the perfect texture.
- Layering Order: Always start and end with a sauce layer (sauce, then noodles) to ensure the noodles have enough moisture to cook properly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover individual portions and microwave until hot, or warm in a covered oven-safe dish at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
FAQ
Can I use regular lasagna noodles?
No, you must use “no-boil” or “oven-ready” lasagna noodles. Traditional noodles require more liquid and a different cooking time and will not work properly in this recipe.
Do I have to use the exact jar size of pasta sauce?
Yes, the 24 oz jar provides the correct amount of liquid for the noodles to cook. Using a different amount could result in undercooked noodles or a burn warning.
Why is there water in the recipe?
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the cheese mixture and meat sauce ahead of time and refrigerate them separately. Layer everything in the Instant Pot when you’re ready to cook.
My Instant Pot displayed a “Burn” warning. What happened?
This usually means food was stuck to the bottom. Always deglaze well after sautéing, ensure you add the water, and avoid putting thick cheese or meat sauce directly on the pot’s bottom for the first layer.
Can I freeze Instant Pot lasagna?
Yes. Cool it completely, then slice and wrap portions tightly. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.