Lasagna soup is an innovative twist on the classic Italian dish that allows you to enjoy all the comfort of lasagna in a delicious, easy-to-make soup form. Perfect for cozy dinner nights or when you crave something hearty yet not overly complicated, this recipe combines ground beef, rich tomatoes, and creamy cheeses into a single pot, making cleanup a breeze. With chilly evenings ahead, making this comforting soup will warm your home and satisfy your loved ones.
Why you’ll love this dish
This lasagna soup recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making it ideal for various occasions. It’s budget-friendly, easy to whip up on a busy weeknight, and kid-approved—what’s not to love? It can easily become a family favorite, served up in bowls topped with gooey mozzarella and fresh basil.
“This lasagna soup is a game-changer! It has all the flavors of traditional lasagna but comes together in half the time. My family devoured it!” – A happy home cook
How this recipe comes together
Preparing lasagna soup is a straightforward, rewarding process. You’ll first brown your ground beef with aromatics like onion and garlic, then build a robust base with crushed tomatoes and broth. After a quick simmer, broken lasagna noodles are added, followed by a creamy finish with ricotta. Within just 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty meal that brings warmth and satisfaction.
What you’ll need
Gather these items for your lasagna soup:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (e.g., lasagna noodles, broken into pieces)
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Feel free to substitute ground turkey or even keep it vegetarian by using mushrooms instead of beef. Opt for gluten-free pasta if needed!
Step-by-step instructions
- Begin by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat, cooking it with the chopped onion and minced garlic until everything is fully cooked.
- Drain any excess fat, then stir in the crushed tomatoes, broth, and Italian seasoning.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and add the broken lasagna noodles.
- Allow the soup to cook until the pasta is tender, which should take about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the ricotta cheese and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve it hot, topped generously with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Garnish with fresh basil right before serving for a beautiful touch.
Best ways to enjoy it
Lasagna soup is best served hot and can be paired with a side salad and crusty garlic bread for a complete meal. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dollop of pesto can elevate the flavors even further. Enjoy it in rustic bowls for a cozy dinner feel!
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store leftover lasagna soup, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. If you’d like to freeze it, make sure it’s cooled first, then store in freezer-safe bags. It can last up to three months frozen. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Helpful cooking tips
- For extra flavor, consider browning the ground beef with some Italian sausage.
- You can make swap out the cheeses in this recipe. For instance, try mascarpone for a richer flavor.
- If you’re short on time, use store-bought marinara sauce instead of crushed tomatoes.
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with your lasagna soup! Add spinach or kale for a nutritional boost, or swap in different cheeses like goat cheese for a tangy flavor. For a smoky kick, consider adding some cooked pancetta or bacon.
Common questions
How long does it take to make this lasagna soup?
From start to finish, this lasagna soup takes about 30-40 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal option.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! While broken lasagna noodles are traditional, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand, such as shells or penne. Keep in mind cooking times may vary.
How can I store lasagna soup safely?
Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with mushrooms or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Yes! You can make it a day ahead, as the flavors will meld beautifully overnight. Just reheat and stir in the cheeses before serving.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
Cream cheese or cottage cheese can be good alternatives if you don’t have ricotta on hand.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Try adding diced zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers to the mix for added nutrition and flavor.
What are some good side dishes to serve with it?
A fresh Caesar salad, garlic bread, or a light Italian antipasto platter would accompany the soup wonderfully.
Try this lasagna soup recipe tonight and experience the comforting flavors of Italy all in a single bowl!
Lasagna Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat with the chopped onion and minced garlic.
- Drain any excess fat, then stir in the crushed tomatoes, broth, and Italian seasoning.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and add the broken lasagna noodles.
- Cook until the pasta is tender, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the ricotta cheese, and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.