There’s just something about comfort food that warms the soul, isn’t there? When the weather turns chilly, I can’t help but crave a hearty bowl of something that feels like a hug from the inside out. That’s why I absolutely adore this lasagna soup recipe. It captures all the rich, delicious flavors of traditional lasagna but in a cozy, soup form that’s perfect for those cold days.
I remember the first time I made this dish—it was a gray, drizzly afternoon, and I was in need of something comforting. As the aroma of garlic and beef filled my kitchen, I could hardly wait for it to simmer. The moment I took my first spoonful, I knew I had found something special. Each bite was like diving into a warm, cheesy blanket, and I couldn’t help but smile. Trust me, once you try this lasagna soup, you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation, too!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground beef (you can also use ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor)
- 1 onion, chopped (adds a nice sweetness and depth)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (because who doesn’t love garlic?)
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes (this gives our soup that rich tomato base)
- 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth if you want a lighter option)
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (I like using small shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- 2 cups ricotta cheese (for that creamy, dreamy texture)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (the more cheese, the better, right?)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for that extra savory punch)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (a lovely blend of herbs that screams “Italian”)
- Salt and pepper to taste (never forget to season, it makes a world of difference!)
How to Prepare the Lasagna Soup Recipe
Now that we’ve gathered all our ingredients, it’s time to dive into the fun part—making this incredible lasagna soup! Don’t worry; I’ll walk you through it step by step. Just follow along, and you’ll have a pot of deliciousness simmering in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook it until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, about 5-7 minutes. (Oh, that smell is heavenly!)
- Once the meat is browned, pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Stir everything together until it’s nicely combined.
- Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy with the seasoning—this is where the flavor starts to build!
- Bring the mixture to a boil. This should take just a few minutes, and you’ll want to keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t boil over. (Oops, we don’t want a messy stovetop!)
- After it’s boiling, add in the uncooked pasta. Stir it well and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. You can taste a piece to check it—yum!
- While the soup is cooking, mix the ricotta cheese in a bowl with a pinch of salt and pepper. This will add a lovely creaminess to your soup.
- When the pasta is ready, ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with generous amounts of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Don’t forget that dollop of ricotta on top—it’s the cherry on the sundae!
- Serve hot and enjoy the warm, comforting vibes of your homemade lasagna soup. You’ll want to savor every spoonful!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a quick and easy meal, ready in just 45 minutes!
- All the comforting flavors of lasagna without the fuss of layering.
- Hearty and filling, perfect for cold nights or when you need a cozy meal.
- Customizable—add your favorite veggies or switch up the meat for variety.
- Cheesy goodness in every bowl, with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
- Great for leftovers, as the flavors deepen and improve the next day.
- This soup is a family favorite—kids and adults alike love it!
- It’s a wonderful one-pot meal, making clean-up a breeze!
Nutritional Information
Each bowl of this delicious lasagna soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving, so you know exactly what you’re enjoying:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 30g
Keep in mind, these values are estimates, and they can vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes. So, feel free to adjust as you see fit while enjoying your homemade comfort in a bowl!
Tips for Success
Want to take your lasagna soup to the next level? Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure you nail this recipe every single time!
- Season to taste: Don’t be shy with your seasonings! Start with the recommended amounts, but feel free to adjust to your liking. A little extra Italian seasoning or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can really amp up the flavor.
- Veggie boost: Want to sneak in some extra nutrition? Toss in some chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers along with the pasta. They’ll cook down beautifully and add a lovely color!
- Leftover love: This soup is perfect for using up leftovers. If you have any veggies or meats hanging around in the fridge, throw them in! Just chop them up and add them during the cooking process.
- Pasta choice: I love using small pasta shapes, but you can really use any type you like. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different shapes may require a little more or less time to get perfect.
- Cheese choices: For an extra cheesy experience, feel free to mix and match your cheeses. A bit of provolone or fontina can add a delicious twist!
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Feel free to make it in advance, just remember to add a splash of broth when reheating, as it may thicken up!
- Garnish galore: Don’t skip the garnishes! A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top just before serving adds a pop of freshness and makes it look so inviting.
With these tips, you’ll create a lasagna soup that’s not only delicious but also uniquely yours. Enjoy the cooking adventure!
Variations of Lasagna Soup Recipe
One of the best things about this lasagna soup recipe is how easy it is to customize! Here are some fun variations to consider, so you can switch things up and make it your own:
- Protein Swap: Instead of ground beef, try using ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile. Each option brings its own unique taste to the dish!
- Vegetarian Delight: For a meatless version, simply skip the meat and load up on veggies! Zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers are fantastic additions that still keep it hearty.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. It’ll warm you up from the inside out!
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or oregano at the end of cooking for an extra burst of flavor. Fresh herbs can elevate the taste and make it feel even more homemade!
- Cheesy Variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Swap in some ricotta for cottage cheese, or add in a bit of gorgonzola for a tangy twist. You can never have too much cheese, right?
- Italian Twist: Give it an Italian flair by adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of pesto just before serving. It adds a delicious depth that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
- Creamy Version: For a creamier soup, stir in some heavy cream or half-and-half during the last few minutes of cooking. It’ll give your soup a luxurious texture!
These variations are just a starting point—feel free to get creative and make this lasagna soup recipe truly yours. The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait to hear what you come up with!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a big pot of this delicious lasagna soup and now you’re wondering how to store those scrumptious leftovers? No worries! I’ve got you covered with simple tips to keep your soup fresh and tasty.
First, let the soup cool to room temperature, and then transfer it into an airtight container. Make sure to store it in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it within the next few days. It should be good for about 3-4 days, but trust me, it might not last that long because it’s so good!
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze your lasagna soup! Just portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving a little space for expansion. It’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Now, for reheating, I recommend using the stovetop. Just pour your soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. If it’s thickened up a bit, don’t hesitate to add a splash of beef broth or water to get it back to that perfect soup consistency. You want it warm and inviting, just like when you first made it!
If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave. Just pop your soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a paper towel (to avoid splatters!), and heat it in short bursts, stirring in between until it’s hot. Easy-peasy!
With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to savor every last bite of your lasagna soup, even days later. Enjoy your cozy creations!
FAQ Section
Got questions about this lasagna soup recipe? Don’t worry; I’ve got answers! Here are some common queries I’ve come across, along with my tips to help you out:
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! While I love using ground beef for its rich flavor, you can easily swap it for ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage. Each option brings its own unique twist to the soup!
What if I’m vegetarian?
No problem at all! Just skip the meat and load up on your favorite veggies. Zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, or even bell peppers work beautifully in this soup, keeping it hearty and delicious.
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes! Just choose gluten-free pasta, and you’re all set. There are plenty of tasty options available now that work perfectly in this lasagna soup recipe.
How can I adjust the spice level?
If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. You can always start with a little and add more to suit your taste!
Can I make this soup in advance?
Definitely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the fridge, and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it!
What should I serve with lasagna soup?
This soup is so filling on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad. You can never go wrong with a little garlic bread for dipping!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, and it’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and you’re good to go!
Got more questions? Feel free to reach out! I love sharing tips and tricks to make your cooking experience as enjoyable as possible. Happy cooking!
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Lasagna Soup Recipe: 7 Comforting Reasons to Love It
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and comforting lasagna soup that combines the flavors of traditional lasagna in a delicious soup form.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups uncooked pasta
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and beef broth to the pot.
- Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the uncooked pasta and cook until tender.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with salt and pepper.
- Serve the soup topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, along with a dollop of ricotta.
Notes
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- You can use ground turkey or sausage instead of beef.
- Add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: lasagna soup recipe, Italian soup, comfort food