Lasagna soup is a delicious and comforting variation of the beloved Italian classic, combining all the rich, hearty flavors of traditional lasagna in a simple, one-pot meal. This lasagna soup recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering the same satisfying experience of a classic lasagna but with less effort and time in the kitchen.
In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy this warm, cozy dish that will quickly become a family favorite. The combination of ground beef, flavorful marinara sauce, and tender lasagna noodles topped with creamy ricotta and mozzarella cheese will satisfy all your cravings. Here’s how to make the best lasagna soup!
Ingredients for Lasagna Soup
To make this delightful lasagna soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef – A hearty protein base that adds richness to the soup. You can also use ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor.
- 1 onion, diced – The onions provide a sweet, aromatic foundation for the soup.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced – Garlic enhances the depth of flavor with its strong, savory taste.
- 4 cups chicken broth – Chicken broth serves as the flavorful liquid base for the soup. You can also use beef or vegetable broth.
- 2 cups marinara sauce – This gives the soup that classic tomato flavor found in lasagna.
- 1 can diced tomatoes – Adds texture and a little extra tomato richness to the broth.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, essential for creating that authentic lasagna flavor.
- 8 oz pasta (broken lasagna noodles) – The pasta acts as the heart of the dish, offering the same texture and satisfaction as traditional lasagna.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese – This creamy cheese brings a velvety texture to the soup, just like the layers of a baked lasagna.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella – Mozzarella adds a gooey, cheesy topping that melts beautifully into the soup.
- Fresh basil, chopped – A fragrant garnish that adds a burst of freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Lasagna Soup
1. Browning the Ground Beef, Onion, and Garlic
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and cooked through, and the onions are soft and translucent.
Make sure to break the beef into small pieces as it cooks to ensure even browning. Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat if necessary.
2. Adding the Broth, Marinara, Tomatoes, and Seasoning
After browning the meat and softening the onions, it’s time to build the soup base. Add the chicken broth, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning to the pot. Stir everything together until well combined.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld and the broth to thicken slightly. Simmering the soup for about 10 minutes will enhance the richness of the broth and ensure that the tomatoes and seasoning are fully incorporated.
3. Cooking the Pasta
Once the soup is simmering, it’s time to add the broken lasagna noodles. Stir the noodles into the soup and let them cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are al dente. Keep an eye on the noodles as they cook, stirring occasionally to prevent them from sticking together.
You’ll know the noodles are done when they are tender but still have a slight bite to them, just like in a traditional lasagna.
4. Serving the Soup with Cheesy Toppings
Now comes the fun part – serving your lasagna soup with its signature cheesy toppings. To each bowl, add a generous dollop of ricotta cheese and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella. The heat from the soup will melt the mozzarella, creating a creamy, cheesy finish reminiscent of baked lasagna.
For a final touch, garnish the soup with freshly chopped basil. This adds a pop of color and a fragrant, fresh flavor that brightens the dish.
Optional Additions: Sour Cream
If you want to take your lasagna soup to the next level, consider adding a dollop of sour cream on top. It adds creaminess and a slight tang that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the broth and cheese.
Why Lasagna Soup is the Perfect Weeknight Meal
1. Quick and Easy
This lasagna soup is the ideal meal when you’re craving comfort food but don’t have the time or energy to prepare a full lasagna. With a total cooking time of just 30 minutes, it’s a quick and easy option that still delivers all the flavors you love from a classic lasagna.
2. One-Pot Meal
Another great thing about lasagna soup is that it’s made in just one pot. This means fewer dishes to clean up, making it even more convenient for busy weeknights.
3. Packed with Flavor
Thanks to the combination of ground beef, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning, this soup is bursting with flavor. The addition of ricotta and mozzarella adds the creamy, cheesy element that makes lasagna so irresistible.
4. Customizable
Lasagna soup is highly adaptable to your tastes and dietary preferences. You can easily swap the ground beef for turkey, sausage, or even a plant-based protein. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Serving Suggestions for Lasagna Soup
Lasagna soup is a filling meal on its own, but if you’re looking to make it even more special, here are some serving suggestions to consider:
- Garlic Bread: Pair your soup with a side of garlic bread for dipping. The crunchy texture and garlic flavor complement the savory soup perfectly.
- Salad: A light, fresh salad on the side adds a healthy balance to the richness of the soup.
- Crusty Bread: A simple loaf of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
One of the great things about lasagna soup is that it stores and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.
1. Refrigerating Leftovers
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of extra broth or water to loosen the soup, as the pasta will absorb some of the liquid while stored.
2. Freezing for Future Meals
If you want to freeze your lasagna soup, it’s best to do so without the cheese toppings. Simply portion the soup into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stovetop. Add the ricotta and mozzarella toppings just before serving.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Comfort Food
This lasagna soup recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish, offering all the flavors of lasagna in a fraction of the time. Its hearty, rich flavors and creamy cheese toppings make it a family favorite, perfect for any night of the week. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll see why it’s a go-to comfort food that’s sure to satisfy.