Instant Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe

If you’re a fan of lasagna but don’t always have the time (or energy) to layer up a full casserole, this Instant Pot lasagna soup is going to be your new best friend. It’s got all the flavors of traditional lasagna—rich tomatoes, savory sausage, and gooey cheese—in a warm, hearty soup that’s ready in a fraction of the time. The Instant Pot makes the process so simple, transforming basic ingredients into a comforting bowl of goodness with just a few steps.

This lasagna soup is perfect for busy weeknights or those chilly days when you’re craving something warm and satisfying. Plus, it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser—no one can resist a bowl of this cheesy, saucy goodness. So grab your Instant Pot, and let’s dive into this delightful, soul-warming recipe!

this RECIPE

A recipe born from lasagna cravings

I first stumbled upon the idea of lasagna soup when I was craving classic lasagna but didn’t have hours to devote to layering, baking, and waiting. My Instant Pot was staring me down, and I thought, why not try to bring all those flavors together in one pot? After a bit of experimenting (and a few noodles that got way too soft in the first attempt!), I finally landed on this recipe that tastes like lasagna but has all the coziness of a soup. Every time I make it, I’m transported to memories of big family dinners, with everyone gathered around the table, passing around Parmesan and fighting over the last slice of garlic bread. This soup brings all that nostalgia into a quick, one-pot meal.

A brief background on lasagna soup

Lasagna itself dates back centuries, originating from Italy and traditionally featuring layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella. As lasagna gained popularity worldwide, variations began to pop up, including deconstructed or simplified versions for busy cooks. Lasagna soup is a relatively new twist, created by home cooks who wanted to capture the essence of lasagna without the time commitment. With an Instant Pot, this version becomes even easier, delivering all those flavors we love in about 30 minutes from start to finish.

Let’s talk ingredients: flavor-packed and versatile

• Olive oil: This is our flavor base for sautéing the meat and vegetables. If you’re out, you could swap it for avocado oil, but olive oil gives that classic Italian richness.
• Beef sausage: The sausage is the main protein in the soup, adding depth and a little spice. Feel free to use turkey sausage if you prefer a lighter option. Look for high-quality sausage with minimal fillers for the best flavor.
• Onion, sweet peppers, and garlic: These aromatics are essential for building flavor. The peppers add a hint of sweetness, balancing out the acidity of the tomatoes. Yellow or red onions work well here, and for garlic lovers, you can add an extra clove.
• Lasagna sheets: Breaking up lasagna sheets gives you those satisfying lasagna bites without needing to layer anything. Regular lasagna sheets work perfectly, but you can also use mini lasagna noodles or even bow-tie pasta if that’s what you have on hand.
• Whole peeled tomatoes and tomato paste: These are the core of the soup’s base. Whole peeled tomatoes add a nice texture, while tomato paste brings a concentrated, deep tomato flavor. You could use crushed tomatoes if you prefer a smoother texture.
• Chicken broth: This thins out the soup and adds savory flavor. Water works in a pinch, but chicken broth gives more richness. You could also use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
• Italian seasoning and sugar: Italian seasoning blends herbs like oregano and basil for that classic Italian vibe. A touch of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes, making the soup more flavorful.

Essential kitchen tools for Instant Pot lasagna soup

• Instant Pot: This is the hero of the recipe, making it possible to get all those lasagna flavors in just one pot and in half the time. If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can make this on the stovetop, but it’ll take a bit longer.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: You’ll want something sturdy to break up the sausage and stir the soup. A wooden spoon works great for sautéing, as it won’t scratch your Instant Pot’s surface.
• Ladle: For serving, a ladle is perfect for scooping up those delicious noodles and chunks of sausage. Plus, it makes it easier to serve the soup neatly into bowls.
• Cheese grater (optional): If you’re topping with fresh Parmesan or mozzarella, a cheese grater will make quick work of it. Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully on top.

Step-by-step: Making lasagna soup in your Instant Pot

1. Sauté the sausage and aromatics: Start by setting your Instant Pot to the SAUTE setting. Add the olive oil and let it warm up. Add the beef sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Stir regularly until the sausage is browned and starts to render its fat—this should take about 5 minutes.
2. Add onions, peppers, and garlic: Once the sausage is mostly cooked, toss in the chopped onion, sweet peppers, and garlic. Sauté for a few minutes until they soften and the onions turn translucent. This step adds depth to the flavor, so don’t rush it!
3. Drain excess grease: If your sausage released a lot of fat, carefully drain it from the Instant Pot to prevent the soup from becoming too oily. Just tilt the pot and use a spoon to remove excess grease.
4. Add lasagna sheets and tomatoes: Break the lasagna sheets into smaller pieces (about 2-inch chunks) and add them to the pot. Pour in the chopped tomatoes (with juice) and tomato paste, giving everything a quick stir to combine.
5. Pour in the broth and season: Add the chicken broth, Italian seasoning, sugar, and salt and pepper to taste. Make sure the lasagna pieces are submerged in the liquid to ensure even cooking.
6. Pressure cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to SEALING. Press the PRESSURE COOK button and cook on HIGH for 4 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, let the pot naturally release pressure for 5 minutes, then carefully do a quick release.
7. Finish and serve: Open the lid and give the soup a good stir. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Ladle into bowls, and top with your favorite cheeses—Parmesan, ricotta, and mozzarella are all delicious options!

Variations to try (and love!)

• Vegetarian version: Swap the sausage for plant-based crumbles or extra vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms. Use vegetable broth to keep it fully vegetarian.
• Low-carb option: Try using zucchini noodles (zoodles) instead of lasagna sheets. Just add them at the end, after pressure cooking, and let them sit in the hot soup to soften.
• Spicy twist: If you love heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the sausage or a splash of hot sauce when serving.
• Dairy-free version: Skip the cheese toppings, or use dairy-free cheese. Nutritional yeast is a nice addition for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
• Mexican-inspired lasagna soup: Use chorizo-style sausage, add a pinch of cumin, and top with cheddar and a dollop of sour cream for a Mexican twist.

Serving and presentation ideas

To make your lasagna soup extra special, serve it in wide, shallow bowls and top with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan. A spoonful of ricotta on each bowl adds creaminess, and a few shreds of mozzarella will melt into gooey pockets as you eat. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color, and serve with crusty garlic bread for dunking. A little drizzle of olive oil on top can also add richness and a beautiful sheen.

Beverage pairings

• Italian soda: The fruity, slightly fizzy taste of Italian soda pairs well with the savory notes in the lasagna soup. Try flavors like lemon, raspberry, or blood orange for a refreshing contrast.
• Sparkling water with a twist: Add a splash of lemon or lime juice to sparkling water for a light, palate-cleansing drink.
• Iced tea: A glass of iced tea, especially one infused with herbs like basil or mint, can complement the Italian flavors without overpowering them.
• Lemonade: For a hint of sweetness, a classic lemonade works beautifully alongside the rich, savory soup.
• Ginger ale: The slight spice of ginger ale adds a nice contrast to the hearty, cheesy flavors of the lasagna soup.

Storing and reheating tips

Leftovers? Lucky you! This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just store it in an airtight container and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. You might need to add a splash of broth or water, as the noodles can soak up liquid as it sits. For freezer storage, leave out the noodles and add them fresh when reheating to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Scaling the recipe for any size group

To make this recipe for a crowd, simply double the ingredients and use the same cooking times. The Instant Pot can handle it! If you’re cooking for one, you can halve the recipe, but be aware that you might need a little extra broth if it starts to get too thick.

Common questions about Instant Pot lasagna soup

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While lasagna sheets give a classic feel, other pasta shapes like bow-tie or rotini work well too.

2. Can I make this without an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can make it on the stovetop. Sauté the ingredients in a large pot, then simmer for about 20 minutes or until the noodles are tender.

3. Is this soup spicy?
No, it’s not inherently spicy. If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage.

4. Can I freeze lasagna soup?
Yes, but if you plan to freeze it, leave out the noodles and add fresh ones when reheating to keep them from getting mushy.

5. What other cheeses can I use?
Try provolone or even a sprinkle of cheddar for a twist. Fresh mozzarella is especially delicious for that gooey, melty texture.

Enjoy your cozy bowl of Instant Pot lasagna soup, and don’t be afraid to make it your own!

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