Description
Pressure Cooker Messy Lasagna
Ingredients
12 oz (340g) rigatoni pasta
1 lb (450g) ground Italian sausage
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups fresh spinach
2 cups chicken broth
2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Brown the sausage: Set your pressure cooker to sauté mode. Cook Italian sausage until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess grease.
Layer the ingredients: Add rigatoni pasta over the sausage. Pour marinara sauce and chicken broth on top. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and a pinch of salt and pepper. DO NOT STIR.
Pressure cook: Close the lid, set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 6 minutes. Quick-release the pressure when done.
Add cheese and spinach: Stir in ricotta cheese and spinach until well combined. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan on top, then cover with the lid for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese.
Serve and enjoy: Scoop out the messy lasagna and garnish with extra Parmesan if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes (including pressure build-up)
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 520 kcal per serving
#PressureCookerMeals #MessyLasagna #EasyDinner #ComfortFood #QuickRecipes #CheesyPasta #OnePotMeals
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, ensure your pressure cooker’s inner pot is clean and insert it. Select the ‘Sauté’ function and allow it to preheat. Add the ground Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks until no pink remains. Carefully drain any excess grease. Next, layer the uncooked rigatoni pasta directly over the meat. Evenly pour the marinara sauce and chicken broth over the top. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This is crucial: DO NOT STIR the contents. Secure the lid, set the valve to ‘Sealing,’ and manually set the cooker to High Pressure for 6 minutes. Once the cycle is complete, perform a quick pressure release by carefully turning the valve. When the pin drops, open the lid.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish stands well on its own but can be elevated with simple sides. Serve generous scoops in shallow bowls. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. For a classic pairing, offer warm, buttery garlic bread or breadsticks for dipping. A light, chilled glass of Chianti or Sangiovese wine complements the Italian flavors perfectly.
How-to Summary
In summary: Brown sausage (drain fat), layer pasta and liquids (do not stir), pressure cook for 6 minutes, quick release, stir in ricotta and spinach, top with cheeses and let melt. The entire process takes about 25 minutes for a comforting, cheesy pasta bake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta? Yes, similar short pasta shapes like penne or ziti work well. Avoid long pasta and delicate shapes.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian? Absolutely. Substitute the sausage with plant-based crumbles or a cup of rinsed lentils, and use vegetable broth.
My pasta came out undercooked. What happened? This usually means there wasn’t enough liquid. Ensure you are using the exact measurements of broth and sauce and that you did not stir, which distributes liquid unevenly.
Can I double this recipe? Do not double it unless your pressure cooker is large enough (8 quarts or more) and never fill past the manufacturer’s maximum fill line.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave with a splash of water or covered in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Stirring before cooking: This is the top mistake. Layering without stirring ensures the liquid properly hydrates and cooks the pasta.
- Using the wrong pasta: Long noodles like spaghetti will clump. Stick to short, sturdy shapes.
- Overfilling the pot: Exceeding the max fill line can clog the vent and is a safety hazard.
- Natural release: Using a natural release will overcook the pasta into mush. Always use a quick release for this recipe.
Conclusion
This Pressure Cooker Messy Lasagna is the ultimate solution for a deeply satisfying, cheesy comfort food dinner that comes together in record time. By leveraging your pressure cooker, you bypass hours of layering and baking for a one-pot wonder that delivers all the flavor with minimal cleanup. Remember the key rule of not stirring before cooking, and you’ll have a foolproof family favorite ready in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect blend of convenience and indulgence for any busy weeknight.