Lasagna is a dish that has stood the test of time, bringing families together for hearty meals with its layers of pasta, cheese, and rich tomato sauce. But what if you could take the essence of lasagna and transform it into a comforting bowl of soup? That’s exactly what this lasagna soup recipe does—it’s a modern twist on a classic, offering all the flavors you love in a much simpler, quicker, and equally satisfying format.
This guide covers everything you need to make the best lasagna soup ever, from detailed ingredients and step-by-step instructions to variations, storage tips, and answers to common questions. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is approachable and guaranteed to become a staple in your home.
What Makes Lasagna Soup So Special?
A Quick Solution for Busy Days
Lasagna, while delicious, often requires a long prep and bake time. This soup delivers all the comfort of lasagna without the hassle of layering noodles or waiting for it to bake. It’s a one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something warm and hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.
Bursting with Flavor
Each spoonful of this soup brings together a rich tomato base, perfectly seasoned meat, tender pasta, and a creamy cheese topping. The ingredients meld beautifully as the soup simmers, making it even more flavorful than traditional lasagna in some ways.
Versatile and Customizable
This recipe is a fantastic base for experimentation. Whether you want to make it vegetarian, gluten-free, or dairy-free, there are countless ways to adapt it to your preferences.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need
To make this lasagna soup, you’ll need two main categories of ingredients: the soup base and the toppings. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
For the Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and prevents sticking during cooking.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides a hearty, meaty base.
- ½ pound Italian sausage: Adds a burst of flavor; you can choose mild or spicy depending on your preference.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Enhances the soup’s aromatic base.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Brings a deep, savory flavor.
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little heat.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: A classic Italian herb.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds earthiness to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Complements the tomato and meat flavors.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- 6 cups chicken or beef broth: Forms the soup’s liquid base.
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes: Provides richness and depth.
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes: Adds texture to the soup.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor.
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional): Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
For the Pasta
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces: Mimics the feel of lasagna. Alternatively, use short pasta like rotini or bow-ties.
For the Cheese Topping
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it’s a perfect topping.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully into the soup.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor.
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish: A fresh and fragrant finishing touch.
How to Make Lasagna Soup
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your own bowl of comfort.
Step 1: Cook the Meat
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking them apart with a spoon. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Build the Aromatic Base
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the red pepper flakes, dried basil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. This step ensures the spices release their full flavor.
Step 3: Incorporate the Tomatoes and Broth
- Add the tomato paste to the pot, stirring it into the meat mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes to develop its flavor.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and broth. Mix well to combine.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
- Break the lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and add them directly to the simmering soup.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but firm.
Step 5: Prepare the Cheese Topping
- In a small bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
- Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each portion has a mix of noodles, meat, and broth.
- Top with a generous dollop of the cheese mixture. The heat of the soup will melt the cheese into a creamy, gooey topping.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of freshness.
Serving Suggestions and Timing
Servings
- This recipe makes approximately 6 generous servings, perfect for a family meal or leftovers.
Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Serve the soup with warm garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Recipe Variations
1. Vegetarian Lasagna Soup
- Replace the meat with plant-based ground meat or a mix of diced zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach.
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth.
2. Spicy Lasagna Soup
- Use spicy Italian sausage and add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
3. Low-Carb Lasagna Soup
- Replace the pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
- Reduce the amount of broth for a thicker, stew-like consistency.
4. Dairy-Free Lasagna Soup
- Use dairy-free cheese alternatives for the topping, such as almond ricotta or cashew mozzarella.
5. Extra Cheesy Lasagna Soup
- Stir shredded mozzarella directly into the soup for an ultra-creamy base.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup (without pasta) in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Stovetop: Reheat the soup over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if the soup has thickened.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through.
Tip for Freezing: If you plan to freeze the soup, cook the pasta separately and add it fresh when reheating to prevent it from becoming mushy.
10 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the pasta during the last 30 minutes.
2. What’s the best pasta for lasagna soup?
Broken lasagna noodles are traditional, but short pasta like rotini, penne, or farfalle also works well.
3. How can I reduce the acidity of the soup?
Add 1 teaspoon of sugar or a splash of heavy cream to balance the tomato’s acidity.
4. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Use about 2 pounds of peeled, diced tomatoes as a substitute.
5. What can I serve alongside lasagna soup?
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly with this dish.
6. Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
7. Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Yes, but freeze it without the pasta. Add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.
8. How can I make the soup creamier?
Stir in a splash of heavy cream or whole milk just before serving.
9. What are some extra toppings I can add?
Try shredded cheddar, croutons, or a drizzle of pesto for added flavor.
10. How do I prevent the pasta from overcooking?
Cook the pasta separately if you plan to store leftovers, then add it to individual portions when serving.
Conclusion
Lasagna soup is the perfect combination of hearty comfort food and weeknight convenience. It’s quick, versatile, and brimming with the rich, cheesy flavors you love about traditional lasagna. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, making it ahead for meal prep, or customizing it to suit your dietary needs, this soup is sure to become a beloved recipe in your collection.
So grab your favorite pot, gather your ingredients, and dive into the joy of making this cozy, satisfying dish. Your taste buds—and your family—will thank you! 🍲