If you love lasagna, but want something easier and cozier, then lasagna soup is the perfect solution! This hearty and flavorful dish combines all the classic ingredients of lasagna in a warm, comforting bowl that’s perfect for chilly nights. Whether you’re a fan of traditional lasagna or looking for a new way to enjoy Italian flavors, this soup is guaranteed to become a favorite in your household.
In this article, we’ll guide you through a detailed step-by-step lasagna soup recipe, offer cooking tips, variations, and answer common questions. Plus, we’ll make sure this content is fully optimized for SEO, ensuring that you get the best quality information right here.
Why You’ll Love This Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Easy to Make: No need to layer ingredients or wait for baking—this soup comes together in just one pot.
- Rich and Flavorful: It includes Italian sausage or beef, tomatoes, lasagna noodles, and a cheesy topping that mimics the layers of traditional lasagna.
- Customizable: You can make it creamy, spicy, or even vegetarian depending on your preferences.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers taste even better the next day!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the best lasagna soup, you’ll need these simple ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage for extra flavor)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- ½ cup heavy cream or ricotta cheese (optional for creaminess)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup ricotta cheese (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Meat
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium-high and cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the Liquids & Seasonings
Pour in the broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Stir in Italian seasoning, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook the Pasta
Add the broken lasagna noodles and let them cook until tender, about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Make It Creamy (Optional)
For a rich, creamy texture, stir in ½ cup heavy cream or ricotta cheese.
6. Add the Cheese
Mix in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
7. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a spoonful of ricotta cheese, fresh basil, and extra Parmesan. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for the Best Lasagna Soup
- For Extra Flavor: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Make It Spicier: Increase the red pepper flakes or add chopped jalapeños.
- Thicker Soup: Reduce the broth by ½ cup or let the soup simmer longer.
- Lighter Version: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and skip the heavy cream.
Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetarian Lasagna Soup: Swap the meat for mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based ground meat.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles.
- Slow Cooker Version: Brown the meat and onions first, then add everything (except cheese) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours.
- Instant Pot Version: Use the Sauté function for the meat, then pressure cook on high for 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make Lasagna Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.
2. Can I Freeze Lasagna Soup?
Yes! Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. However, it’s best to cook the noodles separately when reheating to prevent mushiness.
3. What’s the Best Cheese for Lasagna Soup?
A mix of mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta gives the most authentic lasagna flavor.
4. Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?
Absolutely! If you don’t have lasagna noodles, use penne, rotini, or farfalle.
5. How Can I Make This Soup More Filling?
Add extra protein like ground chicken or turkey, or serve it with garlic bread.
Conclusion
Lasagna soup is the ultimate comfort food—packed with bold Italian flavors, hearty meat, rich tomato broth, and gooey cheese. It’s easy to make, family-friendly, and perfect for meal prepping. Whether you customize it with different proteins, make it vegetarian, or try a slow-cooker version, this dish is sure to impress!
If you’re looking for a warm, filling meal that brings the taste of lasagna in a fraction of the time, this soup is a must-try. Give it a go today and let us know how you liked it!
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Easy & Hearty Lasagna Soup Recipe – A Cozy One-Pot Meal
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken or beef broth
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
½ cup heavy cream or ricotta cheese (for creaminess, optional)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup ricotta cheese (for topping)
2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Instructions
Cook the meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef (or sausage) over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
Sauté the aromatics: Add the diced onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Add the liquids & seasonings: Pour in the broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Stir in Italian seasoning, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Cook the pasta: Add the broken lasagna noodles and cook until tender, about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Make it creamy (optional): Stir in the heavy cream or ricotta cheese for a rich texture.
Add the cheese: Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and combined.
Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with a spoonful of ricotta cheese, fresh basil, and extra Parmesan. Enjoy!