Discover this easy lasagna soup recipe, packed with rich flavors, melty cheese, and hearty ingredients for a cozy, delicious meal that’s simple to prepare.
Introduction
Lasagna soup is the perfect comfort food that delivers all the rich, savory flavors of traditional lasagna in a fraction of the time. Imagine all the delicious elements of a classic lasagna—ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, melty cheese, and tender pasta—but in a warm and hearty soup. This recipe is a wonderful go-to for busy weeknights when you crave lasagna but don’t have the time to layer and bake it. Plus, it’s all made in one pot, which makes cleanup a breeze!
What makes lasagna soup so special is its combination of familiar lasagna ingredients in a way that’s lighter, quicker, and just as satisfying. Each spoonful is loaded with tender pasta, a rich tomato broth, and cheesy goodness. This dish is sure to become a family favorite, offering the warmth and comfort you need, especially on chilly days. Whether you’re making dinner for your family or preparing meals for the week, lasagna soup is an easy and flavorful option that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Directions
- In a large pot, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned. Break it into small crumbles as it cooks.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken or beef broth, marinara sauce, and diced tomatoes. Stir in the Italian seasoning, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add the broken lasagna noodles to the soup and cook until the noodles are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
- While the noodles cook, in a small bowl, mix the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese together.
- Once the noodles are cooked, ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.
How to Prepare
The beauty of lasagna soup is in its simplicity. Start by browning the meat and softening the onions and garlic to build a savory base. The rich tomato broth is enhanced by adding your favorite marinara sauce, broth, and a blend of Italian spices. Broken lasagna noodles are cooked directly in the soup, making this a one-pot meal that’s both easy and satisfying. The finishing touch is a cheesy topping made from ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan that melts into the hot soup, creating that signature lasagna flavor without the need for baking.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
Servings
This recipe serves 6 people, making it a great option for family dinners or meal prepping.
FAQs
- Can I use a different type of pasta instead of lasagna noodles?
Yes, any short pasta like penne or rotini works well in this recipe if you don’t have lasagna noodles on hand. - Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! Lasagna soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove, and add extra broth if it thickens. - Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just leave out the meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth. You can also add extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added texture and flavor. - How can I make this soup creamier?
If you prefer a creamier soup, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end of cooking for extra richness. - Can I freeze lasagna soup?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze the soup without the noodles, as they may become mushy when thawed. When reheating, cook fresh noodles separately and add them to the soup.
Conclusion
Easy Lasagna Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that captures all the beloved flavors of traditional lasagna in a much quicker, more convenient form. With its rich tomato broth, tender pasta, and cheesy topping, this soup is a surefire hit for anyone who loves hearty, Italian-inspired meals. It’s simple to make, requires only one pot, and is perfect for feeding a family or preparing in advance.
Whether you’re a busy parent looking for an easy dinner idea or someone who loves the taste of lasagna without the fuss, this recipe is for you. It’s satisfying, flavorful, and guaranteed to warm you up from the inside out!
