Lasagna soup is a cozy dish that combines the flavors of traditional lasagna into a warm, comforting soup. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a casual gathering with friends and family. With hearty ingredients and rich flavors, this soup exceptionally delivers everything you love about lasagna—an indulgent treat in liquid form.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This lasagna soup is a game-changer for lasagna lovers. It combines the rich flavors of ground beef, savory tomatoes, and creamy cheese into a one-pot meal that can be ready in just 30 minutes. You don’t have to spend hours layering noodles and sauce; instead, you can enjoy all the comforts of lasagna in a bowl. Plus, it’s an excellent way to warm up on a chilly evening or impress guests with minimal effort. Each spoonful is packed with satisfying textures and seasoned to perfection. The combination of gooey cheese and basil on top makes every serving a delight!
Introduction
Comfort food doesn’t get much better than lasagna soup. It encapsulates all the joy of a beloved classic while being a little lighter and much easier to make. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or part of a festive family dinner, this soup can adapt beautifully to your tastes and dietary preferences. With the heartiness of ground beef, the vibrant touch of garlic, and the creamy goodness of ricotta and mozzarella, this recipe promises to provide warmth and satisfaction in every bowl.
Imagine coming home after a long day and being greeted by the delicious aroma of simmering soup filling your kitchen. The blending of the cast of characters—rich broth, tender noodles, zesty tomatoes, and aromatic herbs—will make your mouth water. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious lasagna soup!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 8 oz pasta (broken lasagna noodles)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat. Add the chicken broth, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and Italian seasoning to the pot. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Once it starts bubbling, add the broken lasagna noodles. Stir well, ensuring the noodles are submerged in the liquid. Let the soup simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and cooked through.
Step 4: Once the pasta is al dente, remove the pot from the heat. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. You can add more Italian seasoning, salt, or pepper based on your flavor preference.
Step 5: To serve, ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with a generous spoonful of ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella, and a few fresh basil leaves. You can also drizzle a little extra marinara or olive oil on top for added flavor.
Cooking Rating:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – This recipe is not only simple but incredibly satisfying and focused on flavor, making it a solid choice for cooks of any skill level.
Serving Suggestions:
Lasagna soup pairs beautifully with crusty garlic bread or a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. You can even sprinkle some extra cheese on top and melt it under a broiler for a few minutes for an extra indulgent touch. For those who enjoy a hint of spice, you can serve it with red pepper flakes or a hot sauce of your choice.
Tips:
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives for a meatless version.
- Storage tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup can also be frozen; just note that the noodles may absorb some of the liquid upon reheating.
- Customizable: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as mushrooms or spinach, to the soup for added nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese lovers: You can replace the ricotta with cotage cheese or cream cheese for a creamier texture, and mix in Parmesan for extra depth.
- Prepare in advance: You can prepare the soup up to the point it’s ready to simmer, then just add the noodles and finish cooking when you’re ready to serve.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 420 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 920mg
Conclusion
Lasagna soup is a wonderful meal that encapsulates the essence of comfort food with the convenience of a quick recipe. Easy to make and full of flavor, it’s a fantastic addition to any weeknight dinner rotation. Embrace those chilly evenings with a warm bowl of lasagna soup, topped with creamy cheese and fresh basil for that final touch of flavor. Gather your loved ones, serve with some crusty bread, and enjoy a meal as cozy as it is delicious.
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
- Can I use different types of meat?
- Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile. A vegetarian option can include lentils or mushrooms.
- What if I don’t have lasagna noodles?
- If you don’t have lasagna noodles, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the type of pasta you choose.
- Can I make this soup ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the soup and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just remember that the noodles will soak up some of the broth, so you may need to add extra liquid upon reheating.
- How can I make the soup spicier?
- To add heat, consider stirring in some crushed red pepper flakes, a splash of hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the soup while it’s simmering.
- Is this soup gluten-free?
- While the original recipe is not gluten-free, you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free lasagna noodles or another type of gluten-free pasta.
