Lasagna is a beloved dish that brings comfort and satisfaction, but when you want all that flavor without the fuss of layers and baking time, Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup is your answer. This hearty soup captures the essence of traditional lasagna, but it can be whipped up in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With rich tomato flavors, comforting noodles, and a creamy finish, this dish is sure to be a family favorite.
Why you’ll love this dish
If you’re on the hunt for a quick and delicious meal that pleases a crowd, look no further. This Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup is not only a one-pot wonder but also budget-friendly—a key factor for those cooking on a budget. It’s versatile enough to serve at casual gatherings or cozy family dinners. Kids love it, and adults appreciate the hearty flavors and creamy richness.
“I can’t believe how easy this lasagna soup was to make! It tastes just like traditional lasagna but is so much simpler. My kids ask for it every week!” – Satisfied Cook
Preparing Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup
Making lasagna soup is straightforward and enjoyable. Start by sautéing the onion and ground beef to create a delicious base. After adding the herbs and tomato products, the soup basically cooks itself while the flavors develop. Finally, toss in the lasagna noodles and let them soften—allowing for a seamless and satisfying soup experience.
Gather these items
To recreate this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion (finely diced)
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 25 ounces tomato basil pasta sauce
- 28 ounces diced canned tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth (more if you want a thinner soup)
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt (divided or more to taste)
- 12 lasagna noodles (uncooked and broken into 2-inch pieces)
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- 6 tablespoons fresh basil (finely chopped)
Consider using ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option, and feel free to adjust the cream or cheese based on your dietary preferences.
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the diced onion and cook until it’s soft.
- Toss in the ground beef and sauté until browned all over.
- Stir in the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, oregano, and tomato paste.
- Add the tomato sauce, diced canned tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
- Stir in the broken lasagna noodles and remaining salt. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the noodles are tender.
- If desired, stir in heavy cream for extra richness. You can add 1-2 cups of extra chicken broth for a thinner consistency.
- For a super creamy texture, mix in some shredded mozzarella or parmesan directly into the soup.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with dollops of ricotta cheese, additional mozzarella, parmesan, and a sprinkle of fresh basil. Serve warm and enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
This Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup is wonderful on its own, but it shines even brighter with some simple additions. Pair it with a crusty garlic bread on the side to scoop up the soup. A fresh garden salad can also be a refreshing complement. For those who enjoy heat, consider sprinkling extra red pepper flakes on top before serving.
How to store & freeze
If you have leftovers (which you probably will!), allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stovetop, adding more broth if the soup thickens.
Pro chef tips
For the best flavor, choose high-quality canned tomatoes, as they’re the foundation of this dish. Additionally, if you prefer a chunkier soup, reserve some of the diced tomatoes before blending them with the sauce. And don’t skip the fresh basil—it makes a world of difference!
Creative twists
Feel free to get adventurous with this soup! Consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a nutritional boost. You might even swap the ground beef for Italian sausage for a spicy kick, or use a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian version.
Your questions answered
- How long does this soup take to prepare?
- It takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner.
- Can I make this dish vegetarian?
- Absolutely! Simply substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative and omit the cream or use a dairy-free substitute.
- Will the lasagna noodles become mushy?
- As long as you follow the cooking time, they will absorb the flavors and remain perfectly tender without becoming mushy.
- Can I use different types of cheese?
- Yes, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese blends, including using gouda or cheddar for a unique twist.
- What if I don’t have chicken broth?
- You can use vegetable broth or even water, though keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly.
- Is it necessary to add heavy cream?
- The heavy cream adds a richness and creaminess, but you can leave it out if you prefer a lighter soup.
- How do I prevent leftovers from thickening too much?
- To keep it from becoming too thick, store the noodles and broth separately if you plan to keep leftovers.
- Can I make this ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance. Just reheat gently and consider adding extra broth to reach your desired consistency before serving.
This Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup is not just a quick fix; it’s a delightful way to enjoy all those familiar lasagna flavors in a cozy, one-pot meal. So grab your ingredients and get ready to warm up your kitchen with this scrumptious dish!
Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven.
- Add the diced onion and cook until it’s soft.
- Toss in the ground beef and sauté until browned all over.
- Stir in the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, oregano, and tomato paste.
- Add the tomato sauce, diced canned tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
- Stir in the broken lasagna noodles and remaining salt. Reduce heat and let it simmer until the noodles are tender.
- If desired, stir in heavy cream for extra richness.
- For a super creamy texture, mix in some shredded mozzarella or parmesan directly into the soup.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with dollops of ricotta cheese, additional mozzarella, parmesan, and a sprinkle of fresh basil.
- Serve warm and enjoy!