The BEST Lasagna Soup Recipe
If you’re craving lasagna but want a cozy, hearty soup that’s easy to make, this Lasagna Soup recipe is the perfect solution! It combines all the classic flavors of lasagna—rich tomato sauce, ground meat, gooey cheese, and Italian herbs—into a comforting bowl of soup that’s ideal for weeknight dinners or a weekend treat.
Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: All the deliciousness of lasagna in a simple, one-pot dish.
- Family-friendly: Kids love the cheesy, comforting flavors!
- Perfect for leftovers: It tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prepping.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create the BEST lasagna soup, here are the key ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage for extra flavor)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can of crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can of tomato sauce
- 6 cups chicken or beef broth
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- 2 teaspoons sugar (balances the acidity of the tomatoes)
- 2 cups broken lasagna noodles (or any pasta you prefer)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheesy Topping:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Meat and Veggies
Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef (or sausage) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat, then add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
Pro Tip: If you want a leaner soup, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
2. Add the Tomatoes and Broth
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Then, add the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and sugar. Season with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Cook the Noodles
While the soup is simmering, cook the broken lasagna noodles separately according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Pro Tip: Cooking the noodles separately prevents them from becoming too soft or mushy in the soup. If you’re in a hurry, you can add them directly to the soup, but keep an eye on the texture!
4. Make the Cheesy Topping
In a small bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Mix until smooth. This cheesy blend will mimic the layers of creamy cheese you’d find in traditional lasagna.
5. Assemble Your Lasagna Soup
Once the soup has simmered and the noodles are cooked, it’s time to put everything together. Add the cooked noodles to the soup and stir to combine.
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a generous spoonful of the ricotta mixture. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Pro Tip: To take it up a notch, broil the cheesy topping on your soup bowls for a couple of minutes until golden and bubbly!
Variations and Tips
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and add mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach for a veggie-packed version.
- Make It Spicy: If you love heat, add extra red pepper flakes or top your soup with spicy sausage.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This soup freezes beautifully! Just cook the noodles fresh when reheating for best results.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this comforting lasagna soup with a side of garlic bread or a simple Caesar salad for a complete meal. A glass of red (like Chianti or Sangiovese) complements the rich flavors perfectly!
Final Thoughts
This Lasagna Soup recipe is the ultimate comfort food for those chilly nights when you want something warm, hearty, and full of flavor. With its rich, cheesy topping and savory broth, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Don’t forget to share this cozy dish with friends and family—they’ll be asking for seconds!