Instant Pot No-Fuss Ravioli Lasagna

Craving a hearty, comforting lasagna but short on time? This **Instant Pot Ravioli Lasagna** recipe is your ultimate weeknight savior, making it incredibly simple to whip up a crowd-pleasing meal without the usual fuss. Say goodbye to boiling pasta noodles and hours of baking – your Instant Pot handles the heavy lifting, delivering layers of gooey cheese, zesty marinara, and tender ravioli in a fraction of the traditional time.

Whether you opt for fresh or frozen ravioli, this Instant Pot lasagna recipe transforms simple ingredients into a rich and flavorful dish. It boasts the classic appeal of creamy, melt-in-your-mouth mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, robust marinara sauce, and perfectly cooked, meaty pasta squares, all meticulously layered to create a deeply satisfying dinner. The best part? Minimal prep time is required before the magic happens in your pressure cooker.

Why This Instant Pot Ravioli Lasagna is a Must-Try

Discover the myriad reasons why this Instant Pot ravioli lasagna recipe is poised to become a staple in your culinary repertoire:

• Effortless Comfort Food: This lazy day lasagna captures all the beloved flavors and textures of traditional lasagna – rich layers of melted cheese, robust spaghetti sauce, and perfectly tender pasta – but with remarkable ease. By utilizing fresh or frozen ravioli, you bypass the need to boil separate pasta sheets or sauté ground beef from scratch, significantly cutting down on prep and cooking time. It’s the ultimate shortcut to homemade comfort.
• Pressure Cooking Perfection: Designed for convenience, this lasagna with ravioli is expertly crafted using the pot-in-pot (PIP) method directly within your Instant Pot. This technique ensures even cooking and prevents burning, making it ideal for delicate dishes like lasagna. The recipe seamlessly adapts to other electric pressure cookers as well, including popular models like Ninja Foodi, GoWise, Breville, or All-Clad, ensuring consistent, delicious results no matter your device.
• Time-Saving Solution: In today’s busy world, finding recipes that deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort is a game-changer. This Instant Pot ravioli lasagna is ready in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, last-minute gatherings, or when you simply want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile & Customizable: From vegetarian options to meaty renditions, this recipe offers incredible flexibility to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Easily incorporate your favorite proteins or vegetables to create a unique dish every time.

For an optional, irresistible finish, you can crisp the top of your Instant Pot lazy ravioli lasagna using an air fryer lid, a standalone air fryer, or by a quick broil in your oven. This step adds a golden-brown, bubbly cheese crust that elevates the dish from great to extraordinary.

Essential Ingredients and Clever Substitutions

Crafting the perfect Instant Pot ravioli lasagna starts with selecting high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and how you can adapt them:

• Fresh or Frozen Ravioli: The star of this lazy lasagna! While we often reach for frozen cheese, meat, or spinach ravioli for convenience, feel free to use any type of ravioli that appeals to you. Remember to thaw frozen ravioli if specified in the recipe to ensure even cooking and optimal texture in the pressure cooker. Different fillings will impart unique flavors, so don’t hesitate to experiment with mushroom, pumpkin, or even a seafood ravioli for an adventurous twist.
• Marinara Sauce: A good quality sauce is the backbone of any great lasagna. We recommend a rich San Marzano pasta sauce for its deep, authentic tomato flavor. However, your options are plentiful! For a heartier dish, consider a robust meat sauce (made with ground beef or Italian sausage). If you prefer something creamier, Alfredo sauce or a sophisticated creamy vodka sauce would be excellent choices. Don’t shy away from your favorite store-bought jarred sauce for ultimate ease – just ensure it’s a brand you love for optimal flavor.
• Cheese: The irresistible gooeyness comes from a generous blend of cheeses. Mozzarella is essential for its meltability and stretchy texture, while Parmesan adds a sharp, salty depth. For an extra decadent and super cheesy lasagna, don’t hold back! Incorporate additional mozzarella, or layer in dollops of creamy ricotta cheese for a classic lasagna feel. You could also experiment with sharp cheddar for a bolder taste or provolone for a mild, nutty note. Shredding your own cheese is highly recommended for the best melt (more on this in our tips!).

Creative Recipe Variations for Every Palate

This Instant Pot Ravioli Lasagna recipe is a fantastic canvas for culinary creativity. Customize it to your liking with these delicious variations:

• Make it Meaty: Elevate the savory profile by incorporating your favorite cooked proteins. Add a layer of browned ground beef, spicy Italian sausage, or tender shredded chicken between the ravioli and sauce for a more substantial and protein-packed meal. For a gourmet touch, consider adding small meatballs or even thinly sliced pepperoni.
• Add Veggies: Boost the nutritional value and add vibrant flavors with a variety of vegetables. Stir in fresh spinach leaves (they’ll wilt down beautifully during cooking), sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth, or roasted red peppers for a sweet and smoky note. Other excellent additions include finely diced zucchini, bell peppers, or caramelized onions. Be sure to lightly sauté harder vegetables before adding them to ensure they cook through properly in the Instant Pot.
• Spice it Up: If you love a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your marinara sauce. For a smoky kick, a dash of smoked paprika can work wonders.
• Herbaceous Twist: Fresh herbs can brighten the entire dish. Sprinkle fresh basil, oregano, or parsley between layers, or garnish generously before serving.

The Right Equipment for Instant Pot Lasagna Success

To achieve perfect Instant Pot Ravioli Lasagna, having the correct tools is key. Here’s what you’ll need:

• A Pressure Cooker: An Instant Pot or any electric pressure cooker (like a Ninja Foodi) is essential. Ensure it’s clean and in good working order.
• 7″ – 7.5″ Metal Springform Pan: This specialized pan with a removable side allows for easy release of your lasagna once cooked, creating beautifully intact slices. If you don’t have a springform pan, a round cake pan of similar size, lined with aluminum foil to create “handles” for lifting, can serve as an alternative.
• Silicone Sling or Foil Sling: A silicone sling is incredibly handy for safely lowering and lifting the pan into and out of the Instant Pot. If you don’t own one, don’t worry – you can easily create a foil sling using heavy-duty aluminum foil.
• Optional Browning Tools:
  • Air Fryer Lid: For Instant Pot models that come with an air fryer lid (like the Instant Pot Duo Crisp or Ninja Foodi), this is ideal for achieving a golden, bubbly cheese topping directly in the pot.
  • Air Fryer: A standalone air fryer can also be used to crisp the top of your lasagna after pressure cooking.
  • Oven with Broil Setting: If you don’t have an air fryer option, a quick trip under the oven broiler will give your lasagna that coveted golden crust.

If you’re looking to make Instant Pot Lasagna without using a springform pan or the pot-in-pot method, check out our dedicated Instant Pot easy lasagna recipe, which offers a different approach.

Mastering the Foil Sling for Your Instant Pot

A foil sling is a simple yet incredibly effective tool for lifting pans in and out of your Instant Pot, especially useful for the pot-in-pot method used in this lasagna recipe. Here’s how to quickly make one:

1. Tear off a strip of heavy-duty aluminum foil, approximately 30 inches long.
2. Fold the strip lengthwise into thirds. This creates a sturdy, thick band.
3. Place your springform pan (or cake pan) in the center of this folded foil strip.
4. Use the ends of the foil strip to create handles. These handles will extend upwards, allowing you to easily lower and lift the pan from your Instant Pot. Ensure the handles are long enough to grasp firmly once the pot is assembled.

This DIY sling provides the necessary support and leverage, making the transfer of your lasagna safe and convenient.

Expert Tips for the Best Instant Pot Ravioli Lasagna

Achieving a truly spectacular Instant Pot ravioli lasagna is easy with these insider tips:

• Ravioli Choice Matters: For this pressure cooker recipe, stick to store-bought fresh or frozen ravioli. While homemade ravioli is wonderful, it tends to be more delicate and might not hold up as well under the high pressure of the Instant Pot, potentially leading to a mushy texture. Frozen ravioli should ideally be thawed before layering to ensure even cooking throughout the lasagna.

• Shred Your Own Mozzarella: This is a game-changer for creamy, dreamy lasagna. Pre-shredded mozzarella cheese found in grocery stores often contains anti-caking agents (like cellulose) to prevent the strands from clumping together in the bag. While convenient, these additives can also inhibit the cheese from melting into that perfectly rich, gooey, and cohesive sauce we all desire in a lasagna. Taking a few extra minutes to shred a block of mozzarella yourself will result in a noticeably creamier and more luxurious texture that truly makes a difference in the final dish.
• Don’t Skimp on Sauce: Ensure each layer of ravioli is adequately coated with marinara sauce. The sauce not only provides flavor but also moisture, which is crucial for cooking the ravioli to perfection in the pressure cooker and preventing a dry lasagna.
• Layering Strategy: A good layering technique ensures that every bite is balanced with cheese, sauce, and pasta. Start and end with sauce and cheese for maximum flavor and a protective top layer.
• Allow for Rest Time: After pressure cooking, resist the urge to immediately slice into your lasagna. Allowing it to rest for at least 10 minutes (or even longer if possible) helps the layers set, preventing the lasagna from falling apart when served and ensuring cleaner slices. This is particularly important when using a springform pan.
• Prevent Sticking: When covering your springform pan with foil for pressure cooking, spray the underside of the foil (the side facing the cheese) with non-stick cooking spray. This simple step ensures that none of that delicious, melted cheese adheres to the foil, making for a cleaner removal and a more appealing top layer.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Lazy Ravioli Lasagna

Get ready to create the easiest, cheesiest, and most satisfying lasagna with ravioli in just 3 primary steps, and have it on your table in under an hour!

Step 1: Assemble the Ravioli Lasagna

1. Prepare the Pan: Begin by lightly greasing your metal springform pan (or round cake pan) with a non-stick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal later.
2. First Layer: Pour about ½ cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of the prepared pan and spread it evenly. This creates a flavorful base and helps prevent the ravioli from sticking.
3. Ravioli and Cheese: Arrange half of your fresh or thawed frozen ravioli in a single layer over the sauce. Sprinkle with ¾ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Second Sauce Layer: Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce over the cheese and ravioli, spreading it gently to cover.
5. Repeat Layers: Place the remaining ravioli in another single layer. Top this with another ¾ cup of shredded mozzarella and ¼ cup of Parmesan.
6. Final Sauce and Cheese: Drizzle the final 1½ cups of marinara sauce over everything, followed by the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese, ensuring a generous cheesy top.
7. Cover the Pan: Take a large piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil and spray its underside (the side that will touch the cheese) with non-stick cooking spray. Tightly cover the assembled lasagna pan with this foil, sealing it well to prevent any moisture from entering during pressure cooking.

Step 2: Pressure Cook to Perfection

1. Prepare the Instant Pot: Pour 1 cup of water into the liner of your Instant Pot. This is essential for creating the steam needed for pressure cooking.
2. Insert Lasagna: Carefully lower the foil-covered lasagna pan into the Instant Pot using your silicone sling or homemade foil sling. Ensure it sits securely above the water.

3. Pressure Cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the sealing ring is properly in place. Twist the pressure release valve to the “Sealing” position (if your model requires manual adjustment). Select the “High Pressure” setting and set the cooking time for 25 minutes.
4. Natural Release & Quick Release: Once the pressure cooking cycle is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes. This helps the lasagna settle and continues to cook gently. After 5 minutes, carefully perform a quick release to vent any remaining pressure.

Step 3: Brown the Lasagna (Optional) & Serve

1. Remove Foil: Using oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves, carefully lift the pan out of the Instant Pot using the sling. Gently remove the foil cover from the lasagna.
2. Brown the Top (Optional but Recommended): For that desirable golden-brown and bubbly cheese crust, you have a few options:
   • Air Fryer Lid: Place the lasagna pan back into the Instant Pot (or transfer to a standalone air fryer). Attach the air fryer lid and cook at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and caramelized.
   • Oven Broil: If you don’t have an air fryer, transfer the lasagna (still in its springform pan) to a baking sheet and broil in your oven for a few minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning, as broilers work quickly.
3. Rest Before Serving: This step is crucial! Allow the ravioli lasagna to rest and cool for at least 10 minutes before attempting to remove the springform pan ring. This resting period allows the cheese and pasta to set, ensuring your lasagna maintains its structure and doesn’t spread out when sliced.
4. Enjoy! Once rested, carefully remove the springform pan ring, slice, and serve warm. Get ready for rave reviews!

Delightful Serving Suggestions

A hearty and cheesy ravioli lasagna deserves equally delightful accompaniments. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

• Fresh Green Salads: Complement the richness of the lasagna with a light, crisp salad. A vibrant kale salad with tahini dressing offers a healthy, earthy contrast, or try a refreshing green salad like our cowboy caviar salad recipe for a burst of fresh flavors and textures.
• Crusty Bread: A basket of warm, crusty bread is always a fantastic idea for soaking up any leftover sauce. Our Easy Homemade French Bread Recipe is a game-changer – once you try it, you’ll never buy store-bought again! For an extra special starter, consider serving this pesto pull apart bread, which is incredibly flavorful and fun to share.
• Roasted Vegetables: Simple roasted broccoli, asparagus, or green beans can add a healthy and delicious side that balances the meal.
• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing with any pasta dish, garlic bread provides that extra savory, garlicky punch that pairs perfectly with Italian flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ravioli Lasagna

More Irresistible Pasta Dinners

If you’re a pasta enthusiast, you’re in the right place! Here are some more of our favorite pasta dinners that are sure to become new family favorites:

If you tried this Instant Pot ravioli lasagna recipe or any other recipe on our website, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let us know how it went in the 📝 comments below. Your feedback means the world to us! Thanks for visiting!

Instant Pot Ravioli Lasagna

Recipe by Renae Gerhardstein

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5 from 9 votes

This lazy ravioli lasagna uses fresh or frozen ravioli, jarred marinara sauce, and the Instant Pot pressure cooker for an incredibly easy and delicious family-friendly meal.

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Course:
Main Course, Dinner

Cuisine:
Italian, American

Servings:
5

Prep Time:

5 minutes

Cook Time:

30 minutes

Time to bring pressure cooker to pressure and release:

10 minutes

Total Time:

45 minutes

Calories:
512

Equipment

• Instant Pot (or any electric pressure cooker)
• 7″-7.5″ metal springform pan (or a round cake pan lined with foil)
• Silicone or foil sling
• Optional: air fryer lid, air fryer, or oven for browning

Ingredients

• 16 ounces ravioli, fresh or frozen (thaw if frozen)
• 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce (or 3 cups homemade sauce) – Our Quick Marinara Sauce
• 2½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup water

Instructions

Assembling the Ravioli Lasagna

1. Lightly grease a 7″-7.5″ metal springform pan or a round cake pan with non-stick cooking spray. (See notes if using a cake pan).
2. Pour ½ cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of the pan. Spread out half of the ravioli in a single layer. Top with ¾ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese. Cover with 1 cup of marinara sauce.
3. Spread the rest of the ravioli into a single layer. Top with another ¾ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese. Pour over the remaining 1½ cups of marinara sauce. Finish by topping with the rest of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
4. Spray the underside of a large piece of aluminum foil with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Tightly wrap the springform pan across the top and under the bottom with the foil.
5. Place the foil-wrapped springform pan into a silicone sling or a homemade foil sling (see notes for making a foil sling).

Pressure Cooking Ravioli Lasagna

6. Pour 1 cup of hot water into the Instant Pot liner. Lower the sling with the ravioli lasagna into the Instant Pot. Secure the lid and twist the pressure valve to the “Sealing” position (if needed). Select high pressure for 25 minutes.
7. When the pressure cycle is complete, allow a 5-minute natural release. Then perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure. Using pot holders or heat-resistant gloves, carefully lift the sling from the Instant Pot and gently remove the foil from the springform pan.
8. If serving without browning (next steps), let the ravioli lasagna cool for at least 10 minutes before removing the springform band. This ensures the lasagna sets and stays together when serving.

Browning the Ravioli Lasagna with Air Fryer Lid, Air Fryer, or Oven (Optional)

9. Place the ravioli lasagna (still in its pan) back on the sling. Lower the sling back into the Instant Pot or place it in your air fryer.
10. Air fry or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. If you don’t have an air fryer or air fryer lid, you can broil the ravioli lasagna in your oven (watch carefully to prevent burning).
11. Allow the ravioli lasagna to cool for at least 10 minutes before removing the springform band. This crucial resting time ensures the lasagna maintains its structure and doesn’t spread out when sliced.

Notes

• To make Instant Pot Lasagna without a springform pan or the pot-in-pot method, check out our Instant Pot Easy Lasagna recipe.
• *Using a Round Cake Pan: You can use a 7”-7.5” metal round cake pan instead of a springform pan. Line the pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil, ensuring the foil extends over the sides to create “handles” for easy removal of the lasagna once cooked. Remember to let it rest for at least 10 minutes after cooking to help it hold its shape when cutting.
• Making a Foil Sling: Tear off a 30″ strip of heavy-duty foil. Fold the strip lengthwise into thirds to create a sturdy band. Use the ends of this band to form handles, which will help you lower and raise the pan from the Instant Pot safely.

Recipe Variations:

• Make it meaty: Include cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken in the layers for a heartier dish.
• Add veggies: Mix in some fresh spinach leaves, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

Storing Instructions:

• To store: Allow the lasagna to cool completely, then cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• To freeze: Wrap the cooled lasagna tightly in freezer-safe plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• To reheat: Thaw frozen Instant Pot ravioli lasagna overnight in the refrigerator. Then, bake in a 350˚F (175°C) oven until hot and bubbly. Alternatively, reheat small pieces in the microwave for quick individual servings.

Nutrition

Serving:
1
serving

|

Calories:
512
kcal

|

Carbohydrates:
46
g

|

Protein:
29
g

|

Fat:
24
g

|

Saturated Fat:
11
g

|

Cholesterol:
93
mg

|

Sodium:
1709
mg

|

Potassium:
497
mg

|

Fiber:
5
g

|

Sugar:
8
g

|

Vitamin A:
979
IU

|

Vitamin C:
10
mg

|

Calcium:
373
mg

|

Iron:
11
mg

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