Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna
Enjoy all the rich, comforting flavors of classic lasagna without the hassle! This one-pot Instant Pot lazy lasagna combines ground beef, pasta sauce, ricotta, and Parmesan with tender penne pasta for a quick and satisfying meal—ready in just over 30 minutes.
Servings: 8
Calories: 314kcal
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil extra-virgin recommended
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 yellow onion finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 jar 24-26 oz traditional pasta sauce
- 3 cups water
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 box 16 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Sauté the Meat: Turn on the Sauté function on the Instant Pot. Add olive oil, ground beef, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Turn off Sauté and drain any excess grease if needed.
- Add the Sauce: Pour in the jar of pasta sauce and stir to combine with the beef mixture.
- Add Liquid & Seasonings: Pour in the water, then add the basil, Italian seasoning, parsley, and salt. Stir well.
- Layer the Pasta: Add the dry penne pasta on top without stirring. Lightly press it down so it’s mostly submerged in the liquid.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid, set the valve to Sealing, and cook on High Pressure for 5 minutes. (It will take about 10 minutes to reach pressure.)
- Natural Release: Let the Instant Pot naturally release pressure for 5-10 minutes:
- 5 minutes for al dente pasta
- 8 minutes for a softer texture
- 10 minutes for very soft pasta
- Stir & Add Cheese: Turn the valve to Venting to release any remaining pressure. Open the lid and stir well. Add ricotta and Parmesan cheese, mixing until fully melted and combined.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Garlic Options: Fresh minced garlic, jarred garlic, or garlic paste all work well.
Water vs. Broth: Water maintains the classic lasagna flavor, while broth may make the dish saltier.
Pasta Sauce: A 24-26 oz jar of traditional pasta sauce works perfectly.
Cheese Choices: Both pre-shredded and freshly grated Parmesan work—pre-shredded is the easiest option.
Water vs. Broth: Water maintains the classic lasagna flavor, while broth may make the dish saltier.
Pasta Sauce: A 24-26 oz jar of traditional pasta sauce works perfectly.
Cheese Choices: Both pre-shredded and freshly grated Parmesan work—pre-shredded is the easiest option.