Lasagna Soup Recipe
If you have been craving the comforting layers of a classic Italian lasagna but want something quicker and cozier, this Lasagna Soup Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine all the deliciousness of rich meats, tangy tomato sauce, tender noodles, and creamy cheeses swirling together in a warm, hearty bowl of soup—it’s like a hug in a bowl! This recipe brings the spirit of lasagna right to your dinner table without the fuss of layering or baking, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends when you want to savor every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this wonderfully flavorful soup is easier than you think because the ingredients are straightforward and thoughtfully chosen to bring layers of flavor, texture, and vibrant color to every bite.
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage: Adds a hearty, savory base with a depth of flavor that makes the soup so satisfying.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Provides a sweet, aromatic foundation that deepens the soup’s complexity.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the broth with a warm, fragrant touch essential to authentic Italian cooking.
- 28 oz can diced tomatoes: Brings fresh acidity and chunks that make every spoonful vibrant and textured.
- 15 oz can tomato sauce: Ensures a rich, smooth tomato base throughout the soup.
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the soup flavorful without overpowering the delicate balance of ingredients.
- 8 oz broken lasagna noodles: Perfect for soaking up all those delicious flavors while offering the familiar pasta comfort.
- 15 oz ricotta cheese: Adds creamy richness that melts beautifully with every bite.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings that irresistible gooey, cheesy topping that makes the recipe feel indulgent.
- Fresh basil for garnish: Offers a pop of green color and a fresh, herbal brightness to finish the dish.
How to Make Lasagna Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating a little olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add your ground beef or Italian sausage and cook it until it’s beautifully browned, about 7 to 10 minutes. Browning the meat well really unlocks those savory, caramelized flavors that build the soup’s foundation. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat, so your soup stays perfectly balanced and not greasy.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they soften and become fragrant—that sweet, garlicky aroma will fill your kitchen and make your mouth water. This step adds a lovely sweetness and savory note that complements the heartiness of the meat.
Step 3: Build the Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Bringing this mixture to a boil and then letting it simmer for 20 minutes allows all those flavors to marry beautifully. This simmering process is what transforms simple ingredients into something truly special.
Step 4: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
Time to add the broken lasagna noodles right into the simmering broth. Let them cook for about 10 to 15 minutes until they become tender but still hold a little bite—this will give the soup that perfect al dente texture reminiscent of classic lasagna pasta.
Step 5: Prepare the Cheese Mixture and Serve
While the noodles cook, mix the ricotta and mozzarella cheeses in a bowl until combined. When serving, ladle the soup into bowls, then top each with a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture and sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top. The heat from the soup warms the cheese so it melts slightly, creating that dreamy creamy finish that brings the Lasagna Soup Recipe to life.
How to Serve Lasagna Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil is the star garnish, adding a burst of color and lift to the rich flavors. For an extra touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little zing. These small touches make your soup feel even more special and inviting.
Side Dishes
This soup stands well on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some warm garlic bread creates a complete, comforting meal. The bread is perfect for dipping into the cheesy broth, and a salad offers a refreshing contrast to the soup’s richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in small bread bowls for a rustic presentation that lets you eat the vessel too. Alternatively, layering the soup with cheese in a clear glass mug showcases the beautiful colors and textures, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your leftover lasagna soup to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will happily keep its wonderful flavors for up to 3 days, making it a great option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This Lasagna Soup Recipe freezes well, giving you the luxury of making a big batch ahead of time. Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Just note that the noodles may soften a bit more upon thawing, but the soup’s flavor remains deliciously intact.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much. Top again with fresh cheese and basil for that fresh-from-the-pot feel.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of beef or sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works wonderfully in this recipe without sacrificing flavor. Just be sure to brown it well for that rich taste.
What if I don’t have lasagna noodles?
You can substitute with broken up flat pasta like fettuccine or even penne. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to get them to tender perfection.
Is this soup spicy?
Not by default. The recipe is mild, but you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Use plant-based meat alternatives or simply skip the meat and add extra vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for a hearty, vegetarian-friendly soup.
How important is fresh basil?
Fresh basil adds a fragrant brightness that really lifts the dish, but if you don’t have any on hand, dried basil can work in a pinch—just add less because dried is more concentrated.
Final Thoughts
This Lasagna Soup Recipe truly turns simple ingredients into a comforting, heartwarming meal that feels just like a cozy night in Italy. Whether you’re looking to impress your family or need a go-to soup that’s both easy and delicious, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. So grab a pot, start cooking, and get ready to fall in love with the magic of lasagna in soup form!
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Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A comforting and hearty Lasagna Soup recipe that combines all the classic flavors of traditional lasagna into a warm, easy-to-make soup. This one-pot dish uses ground beef or Italian sausage, rich tomato broth, broken lasagna noodles, and a creamy ricotta-mozzarella topping garnished with fresh basil for a delicious meal ready in about an hour.
Ingredients
Savory Base
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
Tomato Broth
- 28 oz can diced tomatoes
- 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Pasta and Cheese
- 8 oz broken lasagna noodles
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef or Italian sausage and cook for 7-10 minutes until browned. Drain any excess fat carefully to prevent greasy soup.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the browned meat. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and soft, releasing its sweet flavor.
- Prepare the Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices and tomato sauce. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a simmer. Let it cook gently for 20 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the broken lasagna noodles directly into the simmering soup. Cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender but not mushy.
- Mix Cheese Topping: While the noodles cook, combine the ricotta cheese and shredded mozzarella in a separate bowl until well mixed and creamy.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls, and top each serving with a generous spoonful of the ricotta-mozzarella mixture. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and herbal aroma.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with Italian sausage for a spicier, more flavorful soup.
- Using low-sodium chicken broth helps control the saltiness of the soup; adjust seasoning at the end as needed.
- For a vegetarian version, replace meat with mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
- Make sure not to overcook the noodles, as they will absorb some broth and continue softening slightly after serving.
- Fresh basil adds a lovely aromatic finish – dried basil can be used but add earlier in cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
