Lasagna Soup is an innovative twist on the classic Italian lasagna. The dish retains all of the savory, cheesy goodness that makes traditional lasagna so beloved, but it’s served in a heartwarming, easy-to-make soup form. This recipe is perfect for those who crave the flavors of lasagna but prefer a lighter, more convenient version. The beauty of lasagna soup lies in its simplicity—it’s a one-pot wonder packed with robust flavors, tender pasta, and rich cheese. This soup is ideal for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening at home or serving a crowd. In this recipe, we’ll explore how to recreate the comforting experience of lasagna in the form of a hearty soup that’s perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
Lasagna soup starts with a flavorful base, often including rich ground meat, aromatic vegetables, and a savory broth. These ingredients form the foundation of the soup and help to capture the essence of lasagna in liquid form.
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage: This is the heart of your soup, providing richness and depth. You can choose ground beef for a milder flavor or opt for Italian sausage if you prefer a bit of spice.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Onions are essential in building the savory backbone of the soup. They add both sweetness and a little bite.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a must in any Italian-inspired dish. It provides a sharp, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with the meat and tomatoes.
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes are the base of the soup’s sauce, offering a tangy and slightly sweet flavor that mimics the traditional tomato sauce used in lasagna.
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth: The broth adds the necessary liquid to turn the ingredients into soup. Chicken broth will give the soup a richer, more savory taste, while vegetable broth is a great option for a lighter, vegetarian version.
- 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning: This seasoning is a blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme, which are essential to the flavor profile of lasagna.
- 1 tsp salt: Salt enhances all the flavors in the soup and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Black pepper adds a subtle spice that rounds out the savory flavors.
For the Pasta
One of the key components of lasagna is the noodles. In this soup, we use broken lasagna noodles, which absorb the soup’s flavor while maintaining the satisfying texture of traditional pasta.
- 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces: Breaking the noodles into pieces allows them to cook evenly and fit easily into the soup. You can use any type of pasta, but lasagna noodles are perfect for that signature lasagna feel.
For the Cheese Topping
Lasagna wouldn’t be lasagna without its rich, cheesy layers. In this soup, we use a combination of cheeses to create a creamy, melty topping that brings the whole dish together.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Ricotta is creamy and mild, making it a perfect base for the cheese mixture. It provides richness without being overwhelming.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella is the gooey, melty cheese that makes lasagna so irresistible. It adds both texture and flavor to the soup.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan has a sharp, nutty flavor that elevates the soup’s overall taste and adds a bit of saltiness.
Garnish
Fresh basil adds a burst of color and freshness, balancing the richness of the soup and enhancing the flavor with its sweet, fragrant notes.
- Fresh basil: Chopped basil makes the perfect garnish, offering a hint of herbal freshness.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Meat
Start by heating a small drizzle of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage (or a combination of both, if you like). Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking the meat into small crumbles as it browns. Once the meat is fully cooked, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Continue to sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about another 3-4 minutes. This step creates the aromatic foundation of the soup and releases the savory flavors of the meat and garlic into the oil. Drain any excess fat from the meat if necessary.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Next, add the crushed tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. The tomatoes and broth will begin to form the soup’s base, and the Italian seasoning will infuse the liquid with a deep, herbaceous flavor that mimics the richness of lasagna. Once the soup begins to boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes. This simmering process helps the flavors meld together, making the soup more flavorful.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
Add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Stir gently to make sure the noodles are submerged in the broth. Let the soup simmer for another 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked al dente. Keep an eye on the noodles to ensure they don’t overcook, as they can become mushy if left too long. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
While the soup is simmering, prepare the cheese topping. In a small bowl, combine the ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheeses. Stir until the mixture is well combined and smooth. The cheese mixture should be thick and creamy, and it will melt beautifully into the hot soup when served.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Once the noodles are tender and the soup is well-seasoned, ladle the hot soup into bowls. Spoon a generous dollop of the cheese mixture into each bowl, allowing it to melt into the soup. You can mix the cheese into the soup as you eat or leave it as a topping for extra creaminess. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped basil for a burst of color and a refreshing herbal flavor.
Helpful Tips
Cooking Tips
- Use Pre-Cooked Meat: To save time, you can use leftover cooked ground beef or sausage, or even rotisserie chicken if you prefer. This will reduce the overall cooking time, making the soup quicker to prepare.
- Avoid Overcooking Noodles: If you plan to make the soup ahead of time, it’s a good idea to add the noodles just before serving. This prevents the noodles from getting too soft and mushy.
- Adjust Thickness: If the soup becomes too thick while cooking, simply add more broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
Flavor Variations
- Vegetarian Version: For a meatless version of this soup, substitute the ground beef or sausage with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based protein crumbles.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes, spicy Italian sausage, or even a dash of hot sauce for an extra layer of heat.
- Herbaceous Twist: Fresh oregano or thyme can be stirred into the soup for a more complex herbal flavor.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions without the noodles. Add fresh noodles when reheating. The soup will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
- Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup is too thick after refrigeration, add additional broth or water to thin it out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other pasta shapes instead of lasagna noodles?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Farfalle, rigatoni, or fusilli work well as substitutes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.
How do I make the soup creamier?
For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk after the soup has simmered. This will make the broth richer and more velvety.
What can I serve with lasagna soup?
Garlic bread is a classic side dish, perfect for soaking up the rich broth. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the heaviness of the soup, and roasted vegetables also pair well for a wholesome meal.
Conclusion
Lasagna Soup is a unique and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. It offers all the comforting elements of traditional lasagna—savory meat, tangy tomatoes, gooey cheese, and tender noodles—but in a more convenient, one-pot form. This soup is perfect for busy weeknights, chilly weekends, or any time you crave the hearty, satisfying flavors of lasagna without the work. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a warm, nourishing meal that’s sure to please the whole family. So why not try making this Lasagna Soup today? With its rich flavors, cheesy goodness, and comforting warmth, it’s sure to become a new family favorite!