In a world where convenience often trumps time-consuming cooking techniques, there are still certain dishes that stand the test of time, creating deep, hearty flavors and memorable meals. One such dish is lasagna, a classic comfort food that has graced tables for generations. But what if you could combine the essence of lasagna with the simplicity of a one-pot meal? Enter the One Pot Lasagna Soup—a dish that takes all the beloved flavors of lasagna and transforms them into a rich, savory soup, ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
To prepare the One Pot Lasagna Soup, you will need the following ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, ensuring that your soup is rich and satisfying.
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef: This is the core of the soup’s richness. Ground beef provides a hearty, savory flavor that forms the backbone of the soup. When cooked with the sausage, it delivers a savory depth that will flavor every spoonful.
- 1 lb Ground Italian Sausage: The addition of ground Italian sausage infuses the soup with its distinctive seasoning, bringing in an extra layer of complexity and a slight spiciness that’s characteristic of Italian sausages. The savory nature of the sausage contrasts beautifully with the richness of the beef.
- 10 Lasagna Noodles: Traditionally, lasagna is made with layers of noodles, but for this soup, the noodles are broken into pieces and added directly to the pot. These noodles absorb the broth and create the characteristic texture of lasagna in every spoonful. Be sure to break the noodles into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
- 1 Onion (Chopped): Onion adds an aromatic sweetness when sautéed. It’s the base of the soup, contributing to the overall depth of flavor. The caramelized onion, combined with the beef and sausage, gives the soup its savory undertone.
- 24 oz Jar Pasta Sauce: The pasta sauce adds richness, tang, and complexity to the soup. Choose a high-quality pasta sauce for the best results. It’s the perfect way to infuse the soup with a tomato base that is both flavorful and filling.
- 4 tsp Minced Garlic: Garlic is the aromatic powerhouse that enhances the flavor profile of the soup. Its pungent, earthy flavor complements the beef and sausage, giving the soup a fragrant note that ties everything together.
- 8 cups Chicken Broth: Chicken broth serves as the base for this soup. It’s light, yet rich enough to carry the flavors of the meat, tomatoes, and seasonings. It also creates the perfect liquid foundation for the soup without overpowering the ingredients.
- 2 tbsp Tomato Paste: Tomato paste is used to deepen the tomato flavor in the soup. It enhances the overall richness and adds a slight sweetness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 14 oz Can Diced Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes contribute texture and freshness. They also bring in additional moisture and a burst of tomato flavor that perfectly complements the pasta sauce and broth.
- 1 tsp Sugar: A small amount of sugar is added to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and pasta sauce. It rounds out the flavors and ensures that the soup isn’t too tangy.
- 2 tsp Balsamic Vinegar: The addition of balsamic vinegar gives the soup a subtle sweetness and tang, adding layers of flavor that enhance the depth of the soup.
- 2 tsp Basil: Fresh basil adds an aromatic herbal note to the soup. It brings brightness and freshness that contrasts the rich, savory flavors of the beef and sausage.
- 1 tsp Oregano: Oregano is an essential Italian herb that enhances the soup’s earthy flavor. It pairs perfectly with basil and gives the soup its characteristic Italian seasoning.
- 1 Bay Leaf: A single bay leaf adds a subtle woodsy, earthy aroma that elevates the overall flavor profile of the soup.
- Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings are added to taste. They help balance the soup, bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Instructions
The process of making One Pot Lasagna Soup is straightforward, yet it’s the layering of ingredients and the slow cooking that makes it exceptional. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this flavorful soup.
Step 1: Browning the Meat
Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, ground Italian sausage, and chopped onion. Brown the meat until it is fully cooked and no longer pink, breaking up the meat as it cooks. This process takes about 8-10 minutes. Be sure to drain off any excess fat to keep the soup rich but not greasy.
Step 2: Infusing Aromatics
Once the meat is browned, add the minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 30 seconds to a minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant. This will enhance the savory profile of the soup, providing a robust base flavor that pairs perfectly with the meat.
Step 3: Building the Flavor Base
Now, it’s time to bring in the rest of the ingredients. Pour in the pasta sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, sugar, balsamic vinegar, basil, oregano, and bay leaf. Stir everything together to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 4: Incorporating Lasagna Noodles
Once the soup has simmered for a bit and the flavors have started to meld, break the lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and add them to the pot. Stir everything to make sure the noodles are fully submerged in the broth. Cover the pot and let it simmer for another 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are fully cooked and tender.
Step 5: Finishing Touch
Once the noodles are cooked through, it’s time to finish the soup with a layer of cheese. You can either stir in some ricotta cheese for a creamy texture or sprinkle some mozzarella or Parmesan on top. If you prefer, you can also serve the soup with a dollop of ricotta cheese in each bowl for extra richness.
Tips
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil and oregano will provide a more vibrant and aromatic flavor than dried herbs. However, if you only have dried, use 1 teaspoon of each.
- Stir in Ricotta for Creaminess: For an extra creamy soup, add a spoonful of ricotta cheese to each bowl right before serving. This will mimic the creamy layers of lasagna.
- Adjust Broth for Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, use less broth. For a thinner, more soupy consistency, add more broth.
- Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the soup along with the garlic for a spicy kick.
Variations
- Vegetarian Lasagna Soup: Replace the ground beef and Italian sausage with plant-based meat or an assortment of vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Cheese Lovers’ Variation: Add more cheese to the soup, like a blend of mozzarella, Parmesan, and provolone. You can also add extra cheese in the pot as it simmers for a richer flavor.
- Slow Cooker Version: You can make this soup in a slow cooker. Brown the meats and onions, then transfer to the slow cooker with all the ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, then add the noodles during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze One Pot Lasagna Soup?
A: Yes, this soup can be frozen. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
Q: Can I substitute the lasagna noodles with other pasta?
A: Yes, you can use other pasta shapes like rigatoni or penne if you don’t have lasagna noodles. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you use.
Q: How can I make the soup thicker?
A: If you prefer a thicker soup, try adding a bit of heavy cream, ricotta cheese, or even some breadcrumbs. You can also cook the soup uncovered for the last few minutes to allow it to reduce and thicken naturally.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, One Pot Lasagna Soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
This One Pot Lasagna Soup is a perfect way to enjoy all the delicious flavors of lasagna with a fraction of the effort. It’s rich, hearty, and comforting—just what you need when you’re craving a warm, filling meal. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it up at a family gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. The best part? Cleanup is a breeze, making it the perfect solution for busy nights when you want something easy but full of flavor.