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Lasagna soup

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Irresistible Lasagna Soup Recipe

This Lasagna Soup brings all the comforting flavors of classic lasagna in a rich, hearty soup form. With its cheesy topping and tender noodles, you’ll never miss the original casserole version!

Ingredients

For the Soup Base:

  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups (1 liter) chicken or beef broth
  • 1 cup water (optional, to adjust thickness)
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Noodles:

  • 8 lasagna noodles, broken into small pieces

For the Cheese Topping:

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Soup Base

  1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
  3. Stir in the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Flavor

  1. Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, broth, Italian seasoning, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and let it cook for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

  1. Add the broken lasagna noodles to the simmering soup.
  2. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Topping

  1. In a small bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
  2. Add a generous dollop of the cheese mixture on top of each serving.
  3. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired.

Tips for Success

  • For Creaminess: Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream or a splash of milk to the soup before serving.
  • Adjusting Thickness: Thin the soup with extra broth or water, if necessary.
  • Freezing Tip: If freezing, cook the noodles separately and add them when reheating to maintain their texture.

Why You’ll Love It

This soup is everything you love about lasagna — the robust tomato sauce, hearty meat, tender pasta, and gooey cheese — but in a bowl! It’s perfect for cozy nights or a quick meal that satisfies everyone at the table.

FAQs About Lasagna Soup

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup base ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. To keep the noodles from becoming mushy, cook and add them fresh when reheating the soup.

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2. Can I use other types of pasta instead of lasagna noodles?

Absolutely! Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or bowtie works well in this soup. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta’s package instructions.

3. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground beef or Italian sausage with plant-based crumbles or skip the meat entirely. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth. You can also add vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

4. How do I make it spicier?

To add more heat, increase the red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage. You can also drizzle some hot sauce over the soup before serving.

5. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, fresh herbs can enhance the flavor. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried (e.g., 1 tablespoon fresh basil for 1 teaspoon dried). Add fresh herbs at the end of cooking for the best flavor.

6. Can I make this soup creamier?

For a creamier texture, stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk before serving. You can also add a dollop of sour cream to individual servings.

7. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to thin it out. Add fresh noodles if needed.

8. Can I freeze lasagna soup?

Yes, but cook the noodles separately and freeze only the soup base. Add freshly cooked noodles when reheating to avoid mushy pasta.

9. Can I substitute the cheese topping?

If you’re out of ricotta, try using cottage cheese. You can also experiment with different cheeses like fontina, gouda, or Asiago for a unique flavor twist.

10. How can I make it healthier?

To lighten up the soup:

  • Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
  • Choose low-fat ricotta and mozzarella.
  • Add extra vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or kale.

11. Is this soup kid-friendly?

Yes! Most kids love the cheesy, tomato-rich flavor. You can skip the red pepper flakes for a milder taste that’s more appealing to younger palates.

Enjoy this cheesy, comforting delight!

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