If you have a soft spot for hearty Italian flavors and crave something comforting yet surprisingly easy to make, this Lasagna Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine all the rich, cheesy, saucy goodness of a classic lasagna transformed into a warm, cozy bowl of soup that delivers every beloved element from noodles to meat, to creamy ricotta, with none of the fuss and layers. It’s the perfect meal to curl up with on a chilly evening or to impress your family without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly straightforward but each plays an essential role in crafting the perfect blend of texture, taste, and vibrant color in your Lasagna Soup Recipe. From the savory meat and aromatic garlic to the creamy cheeses and fresh basil, every component builds layers of flavor.
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage: Provides a rich, meaty base that’s packed with flavor.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds a natural sweetness once sautéed to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses warmth and depth to the savory broth.
- 28 oz can diced tomatoes: Brings bright acidity and texture to brighten the soup.
- 15 oz can tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, saucy foundation that mimics classic lasagna sauce.
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the soup comforting and light, letting other flavors shine.
- 8 oz broken lasagna noodles: Offers that unmistakable pasta element in perfectly bite-sized pieces.
- 15 oz ricotta cheese: Adds creamy, mild richness for a luscious finish.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top for gooey, cheesy goodness.
- Fresh basil for garnish: Elevates the dish with a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens every spoonful.
How to Make Lasagna Soup Recipe
Step 1: Browning the Meat
Start by heating some olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add your ground beef or Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and let it brown evenly for about 7 to 10 minutes. This step builds a deep, savory flavor for the entire soup, so let the meat get a nice golden color before draining any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Sautéing Aromatics
Next, toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic right into the pot. Sauté them with the browned meat until the onions soften and turn translucent, releasing that irresistible aroma of garlic and onion that signals flavor is building. This subtle sweetness is the perfect counterpoint to the tomato base.
Step 3: Adding Tomatoes and Broth
Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, coating the meat and aromatics in rich, red goodness. Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything up to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer gently for 20 minutes. This slow melding of flavors gives the soup its authentic lasagna taste without the layered assembly.
Step 4: Cooking the Pasta
Now it’s time to add the broken lasagna noodles. Simply scatter them into the simmering soup and cook until they’re tender but not mushy—usually about 10 to 15 minutes. The noodles absorb some of that saucy broth, making every spoonful hearty and filling.
Step 5: Cheese Mixture and Final Assembly
While the soup simmers, mix your ricotta and shredded mozzarella together in a bowl to create a creamy, cheesy topping. When serving, ladle the soup into bowls and spoon that luscious cheese mixture on top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an herby freshness that brightens the entire dish.
How to Serve Lasagna Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the classic ricotta and mozzarella blend, consider sprinkling extra shredded Parmesan or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat. Fresh basil is your best friend here—its aroma pairs beautifully with the tomato base and cheese, making each bite sing with freshness.
Side Dishes
This soup shines on its own, but why not serve it alongside some crunchy garlic bread or a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette? These add-ons balance the richness of the soup and offer a welcome textural contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the soup in mini bread bowls for an edible container that ups the comfort factor. Another idea is layering the soup with fresh basil leaves and a dollop of the cheese mixture in clear glass mugs for an attractive, layered presentation that dazzles guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Lasagna Soup Recipe leftovers keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the cheese mixture separate if possible to avoid it getting watery. When you’re ready for a comforting quick meal, everything is already prepared and waiting.
Freezing
This soup freezes well before adding the cheese topping. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and it will last for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge to maintain texture and flavor integrity.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat to prevent the noodles from becoming too soft. Add the cheese mixture fresh at serving time to preserve its creamy texture and avoid any separation.
FAQs
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well and offers a lighter alternative while still providing plenty of protein and flavor. Just brown the meat the same way as beef.
What can I substitute if I don’t have broken lasagna noodles?
Any short pasta like penne, rotini, or broken spaghetti pieces will work nicely. The goal is to have manageable bites that soak up the soup’s delicious broth.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, swap the meat for hearty vegetables like mushrooms or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The tomato base and cheeses still make for a rich and satisfying soup.
How do I prevent the noodles from getting mushy when reheating?
Cook the noodles just until tender the first time, and avoid overcooking. Reheat slowly on low heat, and if possible, store noodles separately or add fresh cooked noodles when reheating.
Can I add other herbs or spices?
Definitely! Oregano, thyme, or a bay leaf during simmering can add complexity. Just be sure to remove any whole herbs before serving for a smooth texture.
Final Thoughts
This Lasagna Soup Recipe is a heartwarming and accessible way to enjoy the flavors of classic lasagna any night of the week. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both satisfying and soulful, yet straightforward enough to whip up without stress. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how this cozy bowl of goodness transforms your dinner routine into something truly special.
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Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This comforting Lasagna Soup brings all the delicious flavors of classic lasagna into a hearty, easy-to-make soup form. Featuring savory ground beef or Italian sausage, tomatoes, broken lasagna noodles, and a creamy cheese topping, it’s perfect for a cozy family meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Soup Base
- 28 oz can diced tomatoes
- 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 8 oz broken lasagna noodles
Cheese Topping
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Garnish
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the browned meat. Cook until the onions become softened and translucent, releasing their flavors into the mixture.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, then pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook gently for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Cook the Noodles: Add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot and continue to simmer until the noodles are tender, about 10 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent noodles from sticking together.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture and Serve: In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and shredded mozzarella. Ladle the soup into bowls, then dollop or spread the cheese mixture on top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a fragrant finish.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground meat with mushrooms or plant-based crumbles.
- Use gluten-free lasagna noodles to make this dish gluten-free.
- You can swap chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
- To speed up cooking, use pre-cooked lasagna noodles but add them later to avoid overcooking.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.
