If you’re a fan of the classic Italian dish but want something you can whip up with less effort, lasagna soup is the answer to your comfort food cravings. Packed with hearty flavors, tender pasta, and creamy cheese, this easy lasagna soup recipe delivers all the goodness of lasagna in a cozier and simpler format. The best part? It’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze. Perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner, this dish will warm your soul and delight your taste buds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these pantry staples and fresh ingredients to create your lasagna soup masterpiece:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (or a mix of both)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk (optional for a creamier touch)
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves (optional for added greens)
For the Cheesy Topping:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Start with a Flavor Base
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef or sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Once the meat is browned, drain any excess fat, then stir in the onion and garlic. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic is fragrant.
2. Build the Soup
Stir in the oregano, basil, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to season the meat. Add the tomato paste for depth of flavor, then pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken or beef broth, and water. Stir everything together, scraping up any delicious browned bits at the bottom of the pot.
3. Simmer and Cook the Pasta
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the broken lasagna noodles and stir. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. If the soup starts to get too thick, feel free to add a little more broth or water. For a creamier soup, stir in the heavy cream during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
4. Add Extra Touches
If you’re using spinach, stir it into the soup just before serving. The heat from the soup will wilt the leaves beautifully, adding a pop of color and nutrition.
5. Prepare the Cheesy Topping
While the soup simmers, mix the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan in a small bowl. This creamy mixture will mimic the layers of cheese in traditional lasagna.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hot, fragrant lasagna soup into bowls. Add a generous dollop of the cheese mixture on top, letting it melt into the soup. Garnish with fresh basil for that finishing touch. Serve with crusty bread or a side of garlic knots for an even heartier meal.
Tips for Customization and Serving
Make It Your Own:
- Swap the ground beef for turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Make it vegetarian by skipping the meat and using vegetable broth. You can even add mushrooms or zucchini for extra texture.
Low-Carb Option:
- Replace the lasagna noodles with zucchini ribbons, shirataki noodles, or spaghetti squash for a keto-friendly twist.
Batch Cooking:
- Lasagna soup freezes well! Make a big batch, cool it completely, and freeze in single-serving portions. Just omit the noodles and cook fresh pasta when reheating to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Boost the Flavor:
- Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle balsamic glaze for an extra kick. For a smoky depth, add a little smoked paprika.
Lasagna soup is truly a hug in a bowl and captures everything we love about lasagna without hours of preparation. With its rich flavors and comforting vibe, this one-pot meal is sure to become a family favorite. Give this easy lasagna soup recipe a try, and experience the joy of a hearty, flavorful dinner that’s ready in no time!
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