Looking for a comforting, hearty meal that combines all the flavors of traditional lasagna in a convenient soup form? This Lasagna Soup is the perfect recipe! It’s filled with rich Italian seasonings, tender lasagna noodles, and topped with a decadent cheese mixture that melts right into the soup for that signature lasagna taste. Whether you’re craving lasagna but want a quicker version or just looking for a warming meal on a chilly day, this soup has you covered.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (for a rich, meaty base)
- 1 medium onion, chopped (adds sweetness and depth)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (for a punch of flavor)
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes (provides the tomato base for the soup)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth (helps balance the rich tomato flavors)
- 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning (adds the perfect blend of herbs)
- 1 tsp salt (for seasoning)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (to taste)
- 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces (the star of the dish!)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (adds creaminess)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (melts into the soup for a gooey texture)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for a salty, cheesy finish)
- Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Meat
Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the 1 lb of ground beef or Italian sausage, 1 chopped medium onion, and 2 minced cloves of garlic. Cook, stirring frequently, until the meat is browned and the onion has softened, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there is excess fat, drain it to avoid a greasy soup.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Once the meat mixture is ready, stir in the 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes, 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, 2 teaspoons of dried Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Bring this delicious mixture to a boil, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
After the soup comes to a boil, add the 8 oz of broken lasagna noodles. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the noodles cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until they’re tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
While the noodles are cooking, it’s time to prepare the decadent cheese topping. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is well mixed and set aside.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Once the noodles are tender and the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls. Add a generous dollop of the cheese mixture on top of each serving. The heat from the soup will melt the cheese mixture, creating that rich, cheesy layer we all love in lasagna. Garnish with fresh basil for a burst of freshness, if desired.
Pro Tips for Perfect Lasagna Soup:
- Customize the meat: If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef or sausage.
- Vegetarian version: For a vegetarian twist, use vegetable broth and skip the meat. Add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for extra texture and flavor.
- Make it gluten-free: Simply swap out the lasagna noodles for gluten-free pasta.
- Cheese swap: Feel free to switch up the cheese blend—try pecorino or provolone for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 450
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Calcium: High due to the cheese mixture
Storing and Reheating Leftovers:
Lasagna Soup stores wonderfully for easy meals throughout the week. Here’s how to store it:
- Refrigerate: Place the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the soup (without the cheese mixture) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop. Prepare the cheese mixture fresh when serving.
When reheating, be sure to heat the soup slowly over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Serving Suggestions:
This comforting soup can be paired with a few simple sides to make a complete meal:
- Garlic bread: Perfect for dipping into the savory broth.
- Side salad: A crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.
- Roasted vegetables: Try serving with roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for a healthy side.
Why You’ll Love Lasagna Soup
Not only is Lasagna Soup incredibly flavorful and easy to make, but it also brings all the best parts of traditional lasagna—meaty, cheesy goodness—in a fraction of the time. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a classic comfort food with less effort. Whether you’re serving this to a crowd or just preparing a cozy weeknight dinner, it’s sure to become a family favorite.