Lasagna Soup is a heartwarming dish that brings the comforting flavors of traditional Italian cuisine into a delightful bowl of soup. Perfect for cozy winter meals or quick weeknight dinners, this easy lasagna soup recipe is a family favorite that can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a creamy lasagna soup or a hearty ground beef lasagna soup, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious one pot lasagna soup!
Ingredients
- For the soup base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its robust flavor.
- 1 medium onion, diced – Sweet onions work particularly well for added flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is preferable, but pre-minced garlic can be used in a pinch.
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (or substitute with mushrooms for vegetarian lasagna soup) – Ground turkey is also a leaner option.
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes – Look for fire-roasted varieties for extra depth of flavor.
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth – Homemade broth will enhance the taste significantly.
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano – Oregano adds an aromatic, earthy quality essential for Italian dishes.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil – Fresh basil can be used if available; use about a tablespoon, chopped.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – Adjust seasoning according to personal preference.
- For the pasta:
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into pieces – You can use traditional or no-boil noodles; adjust cooking time as necessary.
- For the creamy finish:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese – Part-skim ricotta can be used for a lighter option.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Fresh mozzarella will give a delightful stretchiness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Aged Parmesan enhances the dish’s umami flavor.
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish – Chopped herbs add a fresh touch when serving.
Note: High-quality ingredients yield the best results. For a vegetarian option, use mushrooms instead of meat and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Always taste as you cook to adjust flavors and perfect the dish!
Steps / Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat, allowing it to shimmer slightly before adding other ingredients. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic and ground beef (or sausage). Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Make sure to break up the meat as it cooks so that it browns evenly and is incorporated throughout the soup.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, which should take around 5-7 minutes. This simmering phase helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
- Once simmering, add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The noodles should be just shy of al dente, as they will absorb some broth.
- In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper, incorporating it well. This will ensure the ricotta adds a creamy texture without being bland.
- Once the noodles are cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy. You may want to let the residual heat do the work for melting the cheeses fully.
- To serve, ladle the lasagna soup into bowls and add a generous dollop of the ricotta mixture on top. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a vibrant finish and added flavor. You can also sprinkle some extra cheese on top if desired.
Tips & Tricks
- For the best flavor, use high-quality tomatoes and freshly grated cheeses. Canned tomatoes should be San Marzano for optimal taste, as they are sweeter and less acidic.
- This lasagna soup can be made ahead of time. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the soup as it thickens upon standing.
- If you want to freeze the soup, do so before adding the noodles and creamy ingredients. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat, then add the noodles and cheeses to ensure they maintain their texture.
- A common mistake is overcooking the noodles. They should be al dente since they continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot soup, contributing to a better mouthfeel.
- For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine after browning the meat and cooking it down for a few minutes before adding the tomatoes; this adds acidity and richness to the overall dish.
- Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving; each ingredient can vary in saltiness and flavor, so personalizing it can make a big difference!
Variations
If you want to get creative with your lasagna soup, here are some variations: Check out our related guide for more tips.
- Vegetarian Lasagna Soup: Substitute the ground beef with mushrooms, zucchini, or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option that’s full of flavor.
- Lasagna Soup with Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach or kale just before serving for added nutrition and a pop of color; the greens wilt beautifully and enhance the soup.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta or even spiralized vegetables like zucchini for a healthier twist; just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Extra Creamy Lasagna Soup: Incorporate a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half when adding the cheeses for a richer flavor that elevates the creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your dining experience, consider serving your lasagna soup with:
- Crusty Italian bread: Perfect for dipping into the savory broth, a slice of fresh focaccia or ciabatta adds a delightful crunch.
- Side salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the soup, balancing the dish beautifully.
- Wine pairing: A glass of Chianti or a light Pinot Grigio can enhance the meal, offering a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
Now that you have all the details on how to make lasagna soup, it’s time to enjoy this comforting and savory dish that embodies Italian comfort food!
Lasagna Soup
Lasagna Soup is a heartwarming dish that brings the comforting flavors of traditional Italian cuisine into a delightful bowl of soup. Perfect for cozy winter meals or quick weeknight dinners, this easy lasagna soup recipe is a family favorite that can be customized to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (or substitute with mushrooms for vegetarian lasagna soup)
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Directions
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat, allowing it to shimmer slightly before adding other ingredients. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
Add the minced garlic and ground beef (or sausage). Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Make sure to break up the meat as it cooks so that it browns evenly and is incorporated throughout the soup.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, which should take around 5-7 minutes.
Once simmering, add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Once the noodles are cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy.
To serve, ladle the lasagna soup into bowls and add a generous dollop of the ricotta mixture on top. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
Nutrition Facts
Recipe Reviews
- ★★★★★
Excellent recipe!
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