Lasagna soup

Introduction to Lasagna Soup

Lasagna Soup is a modern twist on the beloved Italian classic, capturing the hearty, comforting flavors of traditional lasagna in a warm, savory soup. Imagine a bowl filled with tender pasta, rich tomato broth, seasoned ground meat, and a melty, cheesy topping—each spoonful delivering the essence of lasagna without the layers and baking time. This recipe has quickly become a favorite for busy cooks and comfort food lovers alike, offering all the satisfaction of lasagna in an easy, one-pot meal.

Perfect for chilly nights, lasagna soup combines the simplicity of soup-making with the soul-soothing taste of Italian cuisine. You’ll enjoy the familiar flavors of garlic, basil, and oregano, enriched with tomatoes and hearty noodles. Plus, this recipe is versatile, allowing for easy substitutions like turkey or veggie-based proteins, gluten-free pasta, and even dairy-free cheese for a lighter version. Ready in under an hour, it’s a go-to option for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, providing warmth and satisfaction without the fuss. So if you’re craving classic Italian comfort but looking for something more approachable, lasagna soup is the perfect answer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This lasagna soup offers a quicker, simpler take on traditional lasagna, without compromising on flavor. It’s:

• Hearty and filling with ground meat and pasta.
• Versatile to fit dietary needs with easy vegetarian and gluten-free modifications.
• Perfect for meal prep, as it stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully.

Ingredients for a Rich, Flavorful Lasagna Soup

The key ingredients for a delicious lasagna soup are simple yet essential in recreating the classic flavors of lasagna in a bowl. Each component plays a role in building the soup’s richness, heartiness, and Italian-inspired flavor profile.

1. Protein

Ground beef or Italian sausage forms the base of the soup, bringing a robust, savory depth. Italian sausage, especially, adds a hint of spice and extra flavor with its blend of fennel and herbs. For a lighter or vegetarian option, substitute with ground turkey, plant-based meat, or hearty vegetables like mushrooms.For a healthier option, consider lean meats or plant-based alternatives

2. Broth and Tomato Base

A combination of crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth creates the soup’s rich, savory foundation. Chicken or vegetable broth works well, with chicken providing a classic flavor, and vegetable broth keeping it vegetarian-friendly. If you want to add even more depth, a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar balances the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances the soup’s complexity.

3. Lasagna Noodles

Traditional lasagna noodles broken into pieces give the soup its signature pasta component. Cooking them directly in the broth allows them to absorb all the flavors. You can substitute gluten-free pasta if needed or use another type of short pasta for a similar effect.

4. Cheeses

The trio of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan brings a creamy, cheesy texture that’s essential for recreating the taste of lasagna. Ricotta melts into the soup for a creamy mouthfeel, mozzarella adds that stretchy, melty texture, and Parmesan provides a sharp, salty kick to round out the flavors.

5. Seasonings

Classic Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme give the soup its traditional flavor. Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth, while red pepper flakes provide optional heat. A touch of salt and black pepper brings all the ingredients together for a perfectly balanced taste.

These ingredients work harmoniously to create a cozy, satisfying soup that tastes like lasagna with every spoonful.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Lasagna Soup

Here’s how to make a delicious, hearty Lasagna Soup with all the flavors of traditional lasagna. This simple, step-by-step process brings together tender pasta, rich tomato broth, savory meat, and creamy cheese in one comforting bowl.

Step 1: Sauté the Protein and Aromatics

Begin by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef or Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the meat is browned and fully cooked. If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or plant-based ground meat works well, too.

Once the meat is browned, add one diced onion and 3-4 minced garlic cloves. Sauté them with the meat for another 3-4 minutes, until the onion softens and becomes translucent, and the garlic is fragrant. This step builds the flavor foundation of your soup, bringing out the natural sweetness of the onion and the savory richness of the garlic.

Step 2: Add Tomato Base and Broth

Next, stir in the tomato components. Pour in one 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes and one 15-ounce can of tomato sauce, creating a rich tomato base. Then add 4 cups of broth (chicken or vegetable, depending on preference). For an added depth of flavor, consider a splash of red wine or a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar, which complements the tomato acidity beautifully.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the soup to cook for 10-15 minutes, letting the flavors meld and deepen.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

While the soup is simmering, break up 8-10 lasagna noodles into smaller pieces. Add them directly to the pot, stirring to ensure they don’t stick together. Cooking the noodles in the soup infuses them with the flavors of the broth, creating a cohesive dish. Simmer the soup for an additional 10 minutes or until the noodles are tender but still slightly al dente, as they will continue to soften slightly after cooking.

Note: If you’re planning on making the soup ahead or storing leftovers, consider cooking the noodles separately and adding them just before serving to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Step 4: Season to Taste

With the soup now thickened and the noodles cooked, add your seasonings. Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Add Cheeses for Creaminess

To finish, add the cheeses. Stir in 1/2 cup of ricotta cheese, which will melt into the soup and create a creamy texture. For an extra cheesy layer, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan over the soup. Allow the cheeses to melt gently into the broth, stirring until they are fully incorporated.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Ladle the hot lasagna soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil, additional Parmesan, or a dollop of ricotta for extra creaminess. Serve with garlic bread for dipping, or a simple green salad on the side.

Tips for Best Results

• Al Dente Noodles: Avoid overcooking by stopping when the noodles are slightly firm. This keeps them from becoming too soft when reheated.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth if it has thickened.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze without the noodles and add fresh pasta when reheating.

Enjoy your cozy, flavorful Lasagna Soup, which combines the best of lasagna in a warm, one-pot meal perfect for any occasion!

Tips and Tricks for the Best Lasagna Soup

Keep the Noodles Perfect

Cook noodles to an al dente texture to prevent them from becoming mushy. If you’re making the soup in advance, consider preparing noodles separately and adding them when reheating.

Balance the Seasoning

A splash of balsamic vinegar or red wine can enhance the rich tomato flavors. If you enjoy a bit of spice, add red pepper flakes for a kick.

Make-Ahead Tips

Lasagna soup stores well, and it’s even better the next day! Freeze in portions if you plan to keep it longer than three days, but leave out the noodles to avoid sogginess.

Serving Suggestions

Lasagna soup pairs beautifully with a few simple sides:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into the savory broth.
• Fresh Salad: Lightens the meal, balancing the rich flavors of the soup.
• Extra Parmesan and Basil: These garnishes add brightness to each bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Lasagna Soup Ahead of Time?

Yes! This soup is perfect for meal prep. If preparing in advance, consider adding noodles right before serving for optimal texture.

How Should I Store and Reheat Leftover Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, simply warm on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth if the soup thickens too much.

Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap out the meat for mushrooms or a meat substitute. Vegetable broth works well as a base for a meat-free version.

For a similar cozy recipe, check out our guide on Easy Ravioli Lasagna, another take on a simplified lasagna experience.

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