Instant Pot Lasagna Soup Flavorful and Easy Recipe

If you’re looking for a warm, satisfying meal that’s easy to whip up, Instant Pot Lasagna Soup is the answer! This dish combines rich flavors with the comfort of classic lasagna, but simplifies the process so you can enjoy dinner without the fuss. Join me as we dive into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to ensure your soup is a hit at every table. Get ready to savor a tasty twist on a beloved favorite!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Instant Pot Lasagna Soup

To make a tasty Instant Pot lasagna soup, you need some key items:

– 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)

– 1 onion, finely chopped

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

– 4 cups beef broth

– 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

These ingredients form the base of our rich and hearty soup. The ground meat adds protein, while the crushed tomatoes and sauce create a flavorful broth.

Seasonings

Next, we enhance our soup with seasonings:

– 2 tsp Italian seasoning

– 1 tsp sugar

– Salt and pepper to taste

Italian seasoning brings that classic flavor. A bit of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes. Salt and pepper add depth and enhance all the flavors.

Noodles and Cheese

Finally, we have the noodles and cheese that make this soup special:

– 8-10 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces

– 1 cup ricotta cheese

– 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

The broken lasagna noodles give a nice texture. Ricotta adds creaminess, while mozzarella melts beautifully on top for that perfect finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Meat and Aromatics

1. Set your Instant Pot to the sauté mode.

2. Add 1 lb of ground beef or turkey.

3. Cook until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes.

4. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup light.

5. Next, add 1 finely chopped onion.

6. Sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes.

7. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic.

8. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Building the Soup Base

1. Pour in 1 can of crushed tomatoes, 4 cups of beef broth, and 1 can of tomato sauce.

2. Stir in 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning and 1 teaspoon of sugar.

3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Carefully add 8 to 10 broken lasagna noodles.

5. Make sure the noodles are mostly submerged in the liquid.

Cooking in the Instant Pot

1. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot.

2. Set it to high pressure and cook for 5 minutes.

3. When the time is up, perform a quick release of pressure.

Finishing Touches

1. After releasing the pressure, open the lid carefully.

2. Stir the soup well to mix the flavors.

3. Add 1 cup of ricotta cheese and 1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella.

4. Mix until all the cheese is creamy and blended.

5. Ladle the soup into bowls.

6. Top with the rest of the mozzarella and fresh basil leaves for garnish.Enjoy this warm and hearty soup!

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Cooking

To avoid mushy noodles, break them into smaller pieces. This helps them cook evenly. Stir the noodles in before you start the pressure cook. This ensures they are covered in liquid.

To achieve the perfect flavor balance, taste the soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper as needed. You can add more Italian seasoning for extra flavor. A pinch of sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Serving Suggestions

For complementary side dishes, serve with crusty garlic bread. A light salad also works well. It adds freshness to the meal.

Recommended garnishes include fresh basil leaves and extra mozzarella cheese. This adds color and flavor to the soup. A drizzle of olive oil can enhance the taste too.

Equipment and Utensil Tips

The Instant Pot works best for making this soup. Its pressure cooking feature saves time.

Essential kitchen tools include a sturdy spoon for stirring. A ladle is great for serving. Use measuring cups for precise ingredient amounts. These tools make the cooking process smoother.

Variations

Dietary Modifications

For those seeking gluten-free options, substitute regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free ones. Many brands offer great alternatives. Just make sure to check the cooking time, as gluten-free noodles can vary.

If you prefer a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for lentils or mushrooms. Both options add a nice, hearty texture. You can also include more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.

Flavor Enhancements

To boost flavor, consider adding vegetables like spinach or carrots. They not only add nutrition but also color and texture. You can sauté these veggies with the onion and garlic for extra taste.

Adjusting the spice level is easy. If you like heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. For a milder soup, skip the extra spice.

Alternative Cheeses

Using different cheeses can change the taste. Try adding provolone or gouda for a richer flavor. Mixing cheeses gives the soup more depth.

If you need dairy-free options, use cashew cream or tofu. Nutritional yeast is another great choice. It provides a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

You can store Instant Pot lasagna soup in the fridge for up to five days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container. This helps maintain freshness and flavor. If you plan to eat it within this time, it will taste great!

Freezing Instructions

For freezing, let the soup cool down first. Then, pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge.

Reheating Tips

To reheat, you can use the stovetop or microwave. If using the stovetop, heat it over medium until warm. Stir often to keep it from sticking. For the microwave, reheat in short bursts, stirring in between. This way, the soup stays flavorful and creamy.

FAQs

How to make Instant Pot Lasagna Soup from scratch?

To make Instant Pot lasagna soup from scratch, follow these steps. First, sauté 1 pound of ground beef or turkey in the Instant Pot. Cook until it’s browned. Next, add 1 chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves. Stir until the onion is soft. Then, pour in 28 ounces of crushed tomatoes and 15 ounces of tomato sauce. Add 4 cups of beef broth, 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Season with salt and pepper. Next, break 8 to 10 lasagna noodles into pieces and add them to the pot. Secure the lid and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Release the pressure quickly. Stir in 1 cup of ricotta cheese and 1.5 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese. Serve it warm.

Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?

Yes, you can use no-boil lasagna noodles. They will cook fully in the soup. However, keep in mind that they may absorb more liquid. This might change the soup’s texture. If you prefer a thinner soup, add a little extra broth.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

If you need a substitute for ricotta cheese, try cottage cheese. It has a similar texture but is lower in fat. You can also use cream cheese mixed with a bit of milk. For a dairy-free option, consider silken tofu blended until smooth. This works well for dietary needs.

How can I make this soup spicier?

To add heat to your soup, try these options. Mix in red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. You can also add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a kick. Start with a small amount and taste as you go. This way, you can control the spice level to your liking.

What to serve with lasagna soup?

Lasagna soup pairs well with several side dishes. Garlic bread is a classic choice. It’s perfect for dipping. A fresh side salad with greens and tomatoes also complements the soup well. For a fun twist, serve it with crusty breadsticks. These options will enhance your meal and bring more flavor to your table.

Instant Pot Lasagna Soup is a simple and tasty dish. We covered the key ingredients, like meat, tomatoes, and noodles. I shared steps for making it, including cooking the meat and mixing in cheeses. Don’t forget the tips for perfect flavor and texture. You can also explore variations to fit your diet.

This soup stands out for its ease and flavor. Give it a try; your family will love it!