If you adore the comforting, rich flavors of traditional lasagna but want something quicker and cozier, this Lasagna Soup Recipe is absolutely for you. It transforms all the components of classic lasagna into a hearty, soul-soothing bowl of warmth that’s perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you crave that perfect blend of meaty, cheesy, and tomato goodness. Each spoonful bursts with familiar tastes while offering the incredible convenience of a one-pot meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential for capturing the true essence of this Lasagna Soup Recipe. From the savory meat and aromatic herbs to the creamy cheeses, every ingredient plays a vital role in creating depth, texture, and vibrant flavors that make this soup irresistible.
- Olive oil: Used to brown the meat and sauté aromatics, adding a subtle fruity richness.
- Ground beef or Italian sausage: Provides hearty, meaty flavor that forms the base of the soup.
- Small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a delicate crunch once sautéed.
- Garlic, minced: Brings pungency and warmth to complement the tomato base.
- Chicken broth: Creates a savory, flavorful liquid for the soup that isn’t overpowering.
- Crushed tomatoes (28 oz can): Offers a deep, rich tomato essence that’s the heart of the soup.
- Diced tomatoes (15 oz can): Adds texture and brightness for a vibrant tomato profile.
- Tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the broth slightly.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that evokes classic Italian cuisine.
- Dried basil: Infuses the soup with sweet, peppery herbal notes.
- Salt and pepper: Essential to balance and enhance all the flavors.
- Lasagna noodles, broken: Pasta pieces that create the familiar texture but in soup form.
- Ricotta cheese: Adds creamy, mild richness when dolloped on top.
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully to give stringy, gooey cheesy magic.
- Parmesan cheese, grated: Sprinkles an umami punch and a slightly nutty flair.
- Fresh basil or parsley: Bright green garnish offering freshness and a pop of color.
How to Make Lasagna Soup Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Meat
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up as it cooks so every bite is perfectly crumbly. Once browned, be sure to drain any excess fat to keep the soup from feeling greasy while retaining its robust flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic right into the pot with the cooked meat. Sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onions soften and turn translucent, releasing their natural sweetness. This step builds that delicious aromatic foundation that carries the whole soup.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Broth
Time to bring all the tomatoey goodness together! Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken broth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and dried basil, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring everything to a boil — this melding of ingredients is where the magic starts to simmer and develop deep flavors.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
Once the soup is boiling, add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Let them cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until tender but still holding their shape. These noodles are what transform the soup from a simple stew to a hearty meal that echoes classic lasagna texture in every bite.
Step 5: Prepare the Cheese Topping
While the noodles cook, mix together the ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan in a small bowl. This creamy cheese combination is the perfect finishing touch, adding a luscious layer of cheesy goodness that melts beautifully over the hot soup.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the piping hot soup into serving bowls. Top each one generously with a dollop of the cheese mixture. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley to add a bright pop of flavor and color that makes the dish feel as vibrant as it tastes.
How to Serve Lasagna Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing with fresh basil or parsley is not just about aesthetics; these herbs add a fresh, slightly peppery note that cuts through the richness and gives every spoonful a hint of garden-fresh brightness. Don’t be shy with the cheese dollop either — it’s the crowning glory that melts into creamy magic.
Side Dishes
This soup stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides that complement its hearty nature. Crusty Italian bread or garlic breadsticks are perfect for dipping and soaking up every last bit. A crisp green salad with a vinaigrette can add refreshing contrast and balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the soup in mini bread bowls or individual ramekins topped with cheese and herbs. You can also swirl some pesto or drizzle quality olive oil on top for a gourmet flair. If feeding a crowd, bring out a cheese platter with extra Parmesan and mozzarella for everyone to sprinkle to their liking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your leftover Lasagna Soup Recipe cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. As the noodles absorb the broth over time, the soup thickens — adding a little more broth when reheating helps maintain that perfect balance.
Freezing
This soup freezes well but keep in mind that cooked pasta can become a bit mushy after freezing and reheating. For best results, freeze the soup without the noodles and add fresh cooked noodles when reheating. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months for convenient future meals.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it to your preferred consistency. Top with fresh cheese dollops and herbs after warming to revive that just-cooked appeal.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that still works wonderfully in this Lasagna Soup Recipe. It offers a lighter flavor but retains the savory satisfaction you’re looking for.
What if I don’t have lasagna noodles?
Feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you have on hand, such as penne, rotini, or broken spaghetti. Just keep an eye on cooking times as pasta shapes vary slightly.
Is this soup spicy?
This recipe is not spicy by default, but you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking to give it a little kick if you prefer heat.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the meat with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini, and use vegetable broth. Adding lentils can also boost protein while keeping the flavors rich and satisfying.
How do I prevent the noodles from getting too mushy?
Adding noodles later in the cooking process and not overcooking them helps maintain texture. If you plan to reheat leftovers, consider cooking pasta separately and adding it just before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Lasagna Soup Recipe is one of those rare dishes that feels like your favorite comfort food reinvented — quick, cozy, and packed with all the flavors you love. It’s perfect for sharing with family, impressing friends, or simply indulging in a warm bowl of deliciousness on any day. Give it a try and discover how wonderfully easy it is to satisfy that lasagna craving in an entirely new way.
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Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A comforting and hearty Lasagna Soup that captures all the classic flavors of traditional lasagna in a warm, easy-to-make soup form. This recipe uses ground beef, tomatoes, Italian herbs, and broken lasagna noodles simmered together, topped with a creamy blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses for a delicious meal ready in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
Cheese Topping
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Meat: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the soup from being greasy.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onion and minced garlic into the pot with the meat. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, dried basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil to combine all the flavors.
- Cook the Noodles: Add the broken lasagna noodles to the boiling soup. Cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes or until the noodles are tender but not mushy, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Cheese Topping: In a small bowl, combine ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheeses. Mix well to create a creamy cheese topping.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top each serving with a generous dollop of the cheese mixture, letting it melt slightly into the soup. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- If you prefer a spicier soup, add red pepper flakes when adding the tomato ingredients.
- Fresh lasagna noodles can be used instead of dried; adjust cooking time accordingly as they will cook faster.
- The cheese topping can be customized by adding shredded provolone or using only mozzarella for a milder flavor.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; noodles may absorb more liquid, so add extra broth or water when reheating.
