If you love the rich flavors of traditional lasagna but want a quicker, easier meal, lasagna soup is your new best friend. This comforting dish captures all the deliciousness of lasagna—meaty tomato sauce, tender noodles, and creamy cheese—in a warm, hearty soup form. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or chilly days when you crave something satisfying without the fuss of layering and baking.
Let’s dive into how you make lasagna soup, step by step, with tips to get that perfect balance of flavors and textures.
What You’ll Need: Key Ingredients for Lasagna Soup
– Ground meat: A mix of lean ground beef and Italian sausage gives the soup a rich, savory base.
– Aromatics: Onion and garlic add depth and aroma.
– Tomato base: Tomato paste and marinara sauce or crushed tomatoes create that classic lasagna flavor.
– Broth: Chicken or beef broth adds body and helps build the soup’s comforting broth.
– Lasagna noodles: Broken into bite-sized pieces so they cook quickly and are easy to eat.
– Cheese: A blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses for that creamy, cheesy finish.
– Herbs and spices: Basil, oregano, parsley, and a pinch of red pepper flakes bring out the Italian flair.
– Optional veggies: Spinach or other greens can add freshness and color.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Lasagna Soup
1. Brown the Meat
Start by cooking your ground beef and Italian sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season with salt and pepper as you go. Once browned, drain any excess fat and remove the meat from the pot to keep the broth from getting greasy.
2. Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, heat olive oil and add chopped onion. Cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Build the Tomato Base
Stir in tomato paste and cook briefly to deepen its flavor. Then add marinara sauce or canned crushed tomatoes, along with your choice of broth. Toss in dried herbs like oregano, basil, and parsley, plus a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Return the browned meat to the pot.
4. Simmer and Add Noodles
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Add broken pieces of lasagna noodles and cook until tender but not mushy—usually about 10 to 15 minutes depending on the noodle type. If you want, add fresh spinach near the end to wilt it gently.
5. Prepare the Cheese Mixture
While the soup simmers, mix ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese in a bowl. This creamy blend is what makes the soup taste like classic lasagna. Some recipes even add mascarpone or cream cheese for extra richness.
6. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top each serving with a generous dollop of the cheese mixture. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Stir the cheese in as you eat for that melty, luscious lasagna experience in every spoonful.
Tips for the Best Lasagna Soup
– Use quality marinara or make your own: A good tomato sauce is key to rich flavor.
– Don’t overcook noodles: They should be tender but still hold their shape to avoid a mushy soup.
– Customize your cheese: Feel free to adjust the cheese blend to your taste or dietary needs.
– Make it in one pot: For easy cleanup, cook everything in one large pot or Dutch oven.
– Slow cooker option: You can also make this soup in a slow cooker by browning the meat and sautéing veggies first, then simmering everything low and slow for hours before adding noodles near the end.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
Lasagna soup is a game-changer for busy cooks who crave comfort food. It’s:
– Quick and easy: Ready in under an hour without the hassle of layering and baking.
– Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike love the familiar flavors.
– Versatile: You can swap meats, add veggies, or make it vegetarian with beans or lentils.
– Comforting: All the cozy, cheesy goodness of lasagna in a warm, slurpable bowl.
This lasagna soup recipe is a delicious shortcut to the classic Italian dish you love, perfect for any day you want something hearty but simple. Give it a try and enjoy the best of lasagna with less effort and more comfort!