Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this lasagna soup! It’s like all the comforting goodness of traditional lasagna but in a cozy, hearty broth that warms you from the inside out. I remember the first time I made this—my family was gathered around the table, and the aroma filled the kitchen, making everyone’s mouths water in anticipation. The beauty of this dish is that it captures the essence of lasagna without the fuss of layering noodles and sauce. With each spoonful, you get a delightful mix of rich flavors, melty cheese, and tender noodles. Trust me, once you dive into this lasagna soup, you won’t want to go back to the usual pasta dishes. It’s perfect for chilly nights or whenever you need a little comfort food magic in your life!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
How to Prepare Lasagna Soup
Alright, let’s get cooking this delicious lasagna soup! It’s all about layering those flavors just right, so follow me step by step and let’s make some magic happen in your kitchen!
Browning the Meat
First things first, grab a large pot and heat it over medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot before adding the ground beef—this is crucial for that lovely browning! Toss in the beef and break it up with a spatula. Make sure to spread it out in the pot; we want to brown it, not steam it! Let it sit for a minute before stirring, so it gets that nice golden color. Once it’s browned and cooked through, drain any excess fat. This step really sets the foundation for the flavor!
Sautéing Vegetables
Now, let’s add that diced onion and minced garlic. Lower the heat slightly to medium and sauté them until the onion is translucent—about 3-5 minutes. You want the garlic to be fragrant but not browned, so keep an eye on it! Stir occasionally, and enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen. This is where the magic begins!
Combining Ingredients
Time to bring it all together! Stir in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, followed by the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. This is the flavor-packed moment! Make sure to mix everything well and bring it to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows all those wonderful seasonings to meld together beautifully.
Cooking the Noodles
After your soup has simmered, it’s time for the lasagna noodles! Add the broken pieces right into the pot. Make sure they’re submerged in the broth, and let them cook for about 10 minutes, or until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking together. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re soft but still have a little bite to them—al dente perfection!
Preparing the Cheese Mixture
While the noodles are cooking, let’s prepare the cheese. In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper. This will add a creamy, flavorful element that complements the soup perfectly. Don’t skimp on seasoning here—it makes all the difference!
Plating the Dish
Now for the fun part—serving it up! Ladle the soup into bowls, and here’s where you can get creative: add a generous scoop of the ricotta mixture on top of each bowl, followed by a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. Finish with a sprig of fresh basil for that gorgeous pop of color. Trust me, your guests will be drooling before they even take a bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a cozy, comforting dish that captures all the classic lasagna flavors in a warm, hearty broth.
- Quick to prepare—ready in just about 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
- One-pot meal means less cleanup, which is always a win in my book!
- Versatile ingredients allow you to customize it to your taste—feel free to swap in Italian sausage or load it up with veggies!
- Rich and satisfying, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Great for meal prep; make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
- Kid-friendly and perfect for the whole family, even picky eaters will love this spin on lasagna!
Tips for Success
To make your lasagna soup truly spectacular, I’ve got some handy tips that I swear by! Trust me, these little tweaks can elevate your dish to a whole new level.
- Beef Choices: While I love using ground beef for its rich flavor, you can easily switch it up with ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different twist. If you want to make it even heartier, try adding some diced pancetta or prosciutto for that extra depth of flavor.
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs can really brighten the dish! If you have fresh basil or oregano on hand, toss some in right at the end for a burst of freshness. Don’t be shy about experimenting with other spices like red pepper flakes for a little heat or thyme for an earthy taste.
- Cheese Variations: While ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan are fantastic, don’t hesitate to mix in other cheeses like provolone or fontina for added creaminess and flavor. You can even sprinkle some crumbled feta on top for a tangy contrast!
- Noodle Tips: When cooking the lasagna noodles, keep an eye on them! They can go from perfect to mushy quickly. I recommend stirring them occasionally and tasting them a minute or two before the suggested cooking time is up to ensure they’re just right.
- Flavor Boosters: If you want to take it up a notch, add a splash of red wine to the broth after browning the meat. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to cook off the alcohol, and then continue with the recipe. It’ll add a wonderful richness!
- Batch Cooking: Because it’s such a fabulous make-ahead meal, consider doubling the recipe! You can freeze half for a busy weeknight when you need something quick and delicious. Just reheat on the stove, adding a splash of broth to loosen it up if necessary.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with crusty bread or a simple side salad to balance out the richness of the soup. A drizzle of good quality olive oil over the top right before serving can add an amazing finishing touch, too!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a lasagna soup that not only warms the belly but also impresses everyone at the table. Happy cooking!
Variations on Lasagna Soup
The beauty of lasagna soup is its versatility! You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Let’s dive into some delicious variations that will keep your soup exciting and fresh!
- Italian Sausage: Swap out the ground beef for Italian sausage for a spicy kick! You can use sweet or hot sausage, depending on your preference. Just be sure to remove the casings before browning it in the pot for that classic Italian flavor.
- Vegetarian Delight: For a vegetarian version, replace the beef with lentils or mushrooms. Cooked lentils add a hearty texture, while mushrooms provide an earthy, rich flavor. You can also toss in some chopped spinach or kale for added nutrition and color!
- Chicken or Turkey: If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground chicken or turkey works wonderfully in this soup. They absorb the flavors beautifully and provide a lean protein source.
- Cheesy Broccoli: For a cheesy twist, consider adding steamed broccoli florets to the pot during the final minutes of cooking. It adds a pop of color and a nutritious element that pairs perfectly with the cheese.
- Pasta Alternatives: While traditional lasagna noodles are fantastic, you can use other types of pasta like penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they remain al dente. You can even use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version!
- Spice Level: If you crave a little heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables. You can also finish the soup with a drizzle of spicy olive oil for an extra kick!
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs! Fresh thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of oregano can elevate the flavor profile and make your soup unique. Just remember to adjust the quantities based on your preference!
These variations not only keep things interesting but also allow you to personalize your lasagna soup exactly how you like it. Don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen—after all, cooking is all about making it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, let’s talk about how to keep that delicious lasagna soup fresh for later! I know sometimes the best part of cooking is enjoying those leftovers, so here’s how to store and reheat them like a pro.
First off, if you have any leftovers (which I bet you will because it’s that good), let the soup cool down to room temperature before you store it. This prevents condensation in your storage containers. I usually divide it into individual portions, which makes it easy to grab when I need a quick meal!
For refrigeration, transfer the soup to airtight containers and store it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. If you’re planning to keep it longer, freezing is a great option! Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little space at the top for the soup to expand as it freezes. You can safely freeze it for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy that comforting bowl of lasagna soup again, the best way to reheat it is on the stovetop. Pour the soup into a pot and heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. If it seems a bit thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. You can also reheat it in the microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, covering it loosely to prevent splatters. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until it’s hot all the way through.
Just a little tip: If you’ve frozen the soup, it’s best to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. But if you’re in a pinch, you can reheat it directly from frozen—just keep in mind it might take a bit longer to heat through evenly.
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your lasagna soup anytime you crave that warm and cozy goodness! Happy eating!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Please note that the nutritional values provided for this lasagna soup are estimates and may vary based on the specific ingredients and brands used. Factors such as cooking methods and portion sizes can also affect the final nutritional content. For the most accurate information, consider calculating the nutrition based on the exact ingredients you choose. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Engage with Us
I absolutely love hearing from you! If you try this lasagna soup, please leave a comment below and share your experience. Did you make any fun variations? How did your family enjoy it? Your feedback means the world to me, and it inspires me to keep creating more delicious recipes!
Also, if you enjoyed this recipe, consider giving it a rating! It helps others find this cozy dish and brings a smile to my face knowing you liked it. And don’t forget to share your lasagna soup moments on social media—tag me or use the hashtag #MyLasagnaSoupAdventure. I can’t wait to see your beautiful bowls and hear all about your cooking adventures!
Let’s connect and keep the conversation going—happy cooking!
Print
Lasagna Soup: 5 Tips for a Cozy, Comforting Bowl
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A hearty and comforting lasagna soup that captures the essence of traditional lasagna in a delicious broth.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add the onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add the broken lasagna noodles and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Serve the soup in bowls, adding a scoop of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan on top.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Use Italian sausage for added flavor.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute beef with lentils or mushrooms.
- Top with extra cheese for a richer taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: lasagna soup, Italian soup, comfort food, hearty soup