If you’ve ever wished you could enjoy that rich, hearty taste of classic lasagna without all the fuss of layering and long baking times, the Instant Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe is here to make your cozy dinner dreams come true. This soul-satisfying soup combines tender broken lasagna noodles, savory ground beef, a robust marinara base, and a sprinkle of Italian herbs, all melded together in a matter of minutes. The best part? It finishes with a creamy cheese topping that brings all the familiar flavors of lasagna right to your bowl in a comforting, warm hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows ingredients for cooking on a white marbled surface. There are four large, flat, light brown pasta sheets with wavy edges stacked at the bottom left. Above them are two small square white bowls with green and light beige dried herbs or powders. Next to them is a whole yellow onion. In the middle, there is a can filled with bright red chopped tomatoes, and a small glass jar containing a red paste. To the right is a small white bowl with light brown dried lentils. Above it is a small white bowl holding a soft white ball of cheese. Fresh green basil leaves are placed in front of the cheese. On the top right are two small glass jars with white and black seasonings. A white cloth is partly visible on the top left. A large silver and black cooking pot with a digital screen is in the top right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential, each bringing its own magic to create a soup with perfect texture, rich color, and layers of authentic Italian flavor.

Olive oil: For sautéing the beef and adding a subtle fruity base note.
Ground beef: Provides hearty protein and a meaty depth that’s fundamental for that lasagna feel.
Small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and texture that softens beautifully as it cooks.
Garlic cloves, minced: A must for that unmistakable Italian aroma and flavor punch.
Salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors in the soup.
Black pepper: Offers a mild heat that gently teases the palate.
Italian seasoning: A perfect herb blend that embodies the essence of lasagna in every bite.
Dried basil: Contributes a sweet, slightly peppery taste that deepens the tomato base.
Dried oregano: Brings a robust herbiness to tie all the Italian flavors together.
Marinara sauce (24 oz jar): The rich core of tomatoes and spices that gives the soup its signature color and taste.
Diced tomatoes (14.5 oz can): Adds texture and bursts of bright tomato flavor.
Beef broth (4 cups): Provides a savory liquid foundation that infuses the pasta and meat with flavor.
Lasagna noodles (8, broken): The comfort-food hero, bringing the perfect pasta texture in soup form.
Ricotta cheese (1 cup): Offers creamy mildness that sandwiches the flavors together beautifully.
Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Melts luscious and stretchy for that classic cheesy finish.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Adds a salty, nutty kick to brighten the soup.
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional): For a pop of fresh, herbaceous color and flavor as a final touch.

How to Make Instant Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Beef and Aromatics

First, set your Instant Pot to the Sauté mode and warm up that olive oil until it shimmers. Add in your ground beef and diced onion, stirring frequently until the meat is beautifully browned and the onions are soft and translucent. This foundational step builds the savory backbone of your soup, so take your time and enjoy how the kitchen fills with that incredible smell. If you notice any excess grease, carefully drain it to keep the flavor clean and balanced.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook it for just about 30 seconds until fragrant – don’t let it burn! Then sprinkle in salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, dried basil, and oregano. These spices awaken the sauce with a well-rounded Italian flair, teasing your taste buds and creating a comforting aroma that fills the room.

Step 3: Combine Tomatoes, Broth, and Noodles

Pour in the jar of marinara sauce and canned diced tomatoes, followed by the rich beef broth. Give everything a good stir before adding the broken lasagna noodles, making sure they’re evenly distributed and submerged. This step transforms the pot into the heart of your meal where pasta and sauce meld into one harmonious dish.

Step 4: Pressure Cook to Perfection

Seal your Instant Pot lid and set the valve to Sealing. Select High Pressure and set the timer for 5 minutes – this quick cook time helps the noodles to tenderize perfectly without turning mushy. Once the timer beeps, release the pressure quickly and carefully open the lid. Your kitchen will be filled with that rich, tomatoey goodness!

Step 5: Stir, Adjust, and Add Cheese

Give the soup a good stir to incorporate all the ingredients and check the seasoning one last time, adding salt or pepper if needed. Spoon servings into bowls and generously top with dollops of ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan. As the cheese melts and mingles with the hot soup, it recreates the delightful creaminess that lasagna is famous for.

How to Serve Instant Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe

Instant Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

To elevate your serving experience, add fresh chopped parsley or basil over the cheese topping. This adds a vibrant burst of color and a fresh herbal contrast to the rich flavors, making each spoonful visually appealing and aromatic. For an extra indulgent touch, a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can also work wonders.

Side Dishes

This soup shines beautifully when paired with simple Italian sides like a crisp Caesar salad, garlic bread, or a warm focaccia. These sides provide a satisfying textural contrast and soak up every last flavorful drop. For a lighter option, serve with steamed green beans or a fresh caprese salad that balances the hearty soup with fresh textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress your guests or family in a fun way? Serve the soup in mini bread bowls or ramekins to create individual portions bursting with flavor. You can also layer the cheese toppings by placing dollops of ricotta first, then baking the bowls briefly under the broiler until bubbly and golden. Instant Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe is so versatile, it’s perfect for casual weeknight dinners or lively gatherings alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftover lasagna soup to airtight containers and refrigerate. It will keep its vibrant flavors for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for meal prep or quick lunches. Expect the noodles to thicken the soup slightly as they continue to absorb liquid, so don’t be surprised if it’s heartier the next day.

Freezing

This Instant Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe freezes well for up to 2 months. Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers but keep cheese toppings separate to retain their best texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the soup slowly over medium heat adding extra broth or water as needed to loosen it up. Once piping hot, stir in fresh mozzarella, Parmesan, and spoonfuls of ricotta to revive that luscious, creamy texture that defines this soup’s comforting character.

FAQs

Can I make this Instant Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe without beef?

Absolutely! You can swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage. For a vegetarian version, consider using hearty mushrooms or lentils to keep that satisfying texture and flavor.

What’s the best way to prevent the noodles from sticking together?

Breaking the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces and stirring them well into the sauce and broth before pressure cooking helps prevent clumping. Avoid stacking the pieces too densely in one spot to ensure even cooking.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried Italian seasoning?

Yes, fresh herbs can be used but add them later in the cooking process to preserve their bright flavors. A blend of fresh basil, oregano, and thyme stirred in after pressure cooking would be delicious.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Definitely! Substitute regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free pasta that cooks quickly. Just keep an eye on the cooking time and adjust accordingly, as gluten-free pasta can be more delicate.

How can I make this soup creamier?

For a richer, creamier texture, stir some ricotta directly into the soup pot before serving or add a splash of heavy cream. The cheese melting into the hot broth gives the perfect velvety finish that feels indulgent but comforting.

Final Thoughts

The Instant Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe is a game-changer for anyone craving the flavors of lasagna without the hassle of layered baking. It’s fast, flavorful, and totally family-friendly—ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal in a flash. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how quickly this soup can become one of your go-to favorites!