When it comes to comfort food, lasagna often tops the list. But what if you could enjoy all those rich, cheesy, and meaty flavors in a single bowl? Enter the lasagna soup recipe—a hearty, one-pot meal that’s as satisfying as the classic dish, but much easier to prepare. Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned cook, this recipe is perfect for creating a comforting meal without the hassle of layering noodles and baking.
In this article, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step guide to making lasagna soup, share some helpful tips, and even answer common questions to help you master this delightful dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Beginner-Friendly: No layering or baking required—just toss everything into one pot.
- Quick and Easy: A fraction of the time needed for traditional lasagna.
- Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary needs or taste preferences.
- Comforting and Delicious: All the cheesy, meaty goodness of lasagna in a warm, cozy soup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
For the Cheesy Topping:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Lasagna Soup Recipe
Let’s dive into the process, using clear steps and tips to ensure success.
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Remove any excess grease.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for the soup.
Step 3: Add the Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken or beef broth, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine. Add the dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
Once the soup is boiling, add the broken lasagna noodles. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender.
Step 5: Prepare the Cheesy Topping
While the noodles cook, mix the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese in a small bowl. This cheesy topping is what makes the soup taste like lasagna.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and add a dollop of the cheese mixture on top. Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh garlic, good-quality canned tomatoes, and freshly grated cheese elevate the flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Keep an eye on them to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Customize the Meat: Swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option.
- Make It Creamier: Stir a splash of heavy cream into the soup just before serving for added richness.
Variations to Try
1. Vegetarian Lasagna Soup
Omit the meat and add diced zucchini, spinach, and mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.
2. Gluten-Free Lasagna Soup
Use gluten-free lasagna noodles or substitute with a gluten-free pasta of your choice.
3. Spicy Lasagna Soup
Increase the red pepper flakes and use spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick.
4. Low-Carb Lasagna Soup
Swap lasagna noodles for zucchini ribbons or cauliflower florets.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fat: 15g
FAQs About Lasagna Soup Recipe
1. Can I make lasagna soup ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the soup without adding the noodles and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add the noodles and cook until tender.
2. Can I freeze lasagna soup?
Absolutely! Freeze the soup base (without noodles) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw, reheat, and add noodles.
3. What can I use instead of lasagna noodles?
You can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, rotini, or bowtie pasta.
4. How can I make the soup thicker?
For a thicker soup, reduce the broth by half or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).
5. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, but you’ll need to peel, seed, and dice the tomatoes. Use about 6-7 fresh tomatoes to replace a 28-ounce can.
Conclusion
This lasagna soup recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves the classic flavors of lasagna but wants a quicker, simpler way to enjoy them. Perfect for beginners and packed with rich, comforting flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!