Easy Lasagna Soup
There’s something wonderfully comforting about a big bowl of Easy Lasagna Soup, perfect for cozy dinners or rainy days. This delightful dish captures all the flavorful essence of classic lasagna but serves it up in a warm, hearty soup form. With its rich broth, tender noodles, and creamy cheeses, it’s just as satisfying as the traditional layered version. I’ve enjoyed whipping up this delicious soup for family gatherings and weeknight dinners, and each time has been met with happy faces and empty bowls.
Why you’ll love this dish
What makes lasagna soup so appealing? First off, it’s a quick recipe that delivers big flavors without the complex layering and baking of classic lasagna. It’s budget-friendly too; with just a few ingredients, you can have dinner on the table in under an hour! This soup is perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed family brunch, providing comfort and satisfaction in every spoonful.
“This lasagna soup was a game-changer for our weeknight meals! So easy to make and incredibly delicious. Everyone loved it!” — A Happy Home Cook
The cooking process explained
Making Easy Lasagna Soup is a breeze! Start by browning the ground beef with onions and garlic, then add in the broth and tomatoes. As the flavors meld, toss in broken lasagna noodles for that hearty touch, and finish with creamy ricotta and mozzarella for richness. It’s a one-pot wonder that makes clean-up easy while filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.
What you’ll need
Gathering the right ingredients sets the foundation for this tasty soup. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh basil for garnish
Feel free to tweak ingredients based on what you have on hand. If you don’t have ricotta, a creamy cottage cheese can be a lovely substitute!
Step-by-step instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion turns soft.
- Stir in the broth, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil to develop those rich flavors.
- Toss in the broken lasagna noodles, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes until the noodles are tender.
- Gently stir in the ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella until they melt into the soup.
- Serve hot, garnished with the remaining mozzarella, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil on top.
Best ways to enjoy it
To make your lasagna soup even more delightful, consider serving it with garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. A sprinkle of Italian herbs or a dash of hot sauce can also elevate the flavors. For an extra touch, drizzle a bit of high-quality olive oil on top before serving — it brings out the soup’s richness beautifully.
Keeping leftovers fresh
After enjoying your Easy Lasagna Soup, you might have some leftovers. To store them, let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to allow it to cool before placing it in the freezer, and when reheating, add a little extra broth to bring back the desired consistency.
Helpful cooking tips
To make the most of this soup, consider using fresh herbs if available; they can enhance the flavor profile immensely. Additionally, breaking the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces allows for more even cooking. If you’re looking for a quicker option, precooked chicken or turkey can substitute for the ground beef, which can save you time!
Creative twists
This recipe is versatile! Want to spice things up? Swap the ground beef for Italian sausage or use zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. You can also explore different cheese pairings, like adding some provolone or goat cheese for a distinct twist. Experiment with spices and herbs to make it uniquely yours.
Your questions answered
What’s the prep time for this recipe?
The prep time for Easy Lasagna Soup is about 10 minutes, while cooking takes 20-30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight meal.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just replace the ground beef with mushrooms or lentils for protein and use vegetable broth instead.
How should I store the soup?
Let the soup cool, then store it in an airtight container. It keeps in the fridge for about 4 days, or you can freeze it for 2-3 months.
With each bowl of this Easy Lasagna Soup, you’re not just serving a meal — you’re creating memories over a delightful comfort food that warms the heart and soul. Enjoy every sip!
Easy Lasagna Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
Cooking
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion turns soft.
- Stir in the broth, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil.
- Toss in the broken lasagna noodles, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes until the noodles are tender.
- Gently stir in the ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella until they melt into the soup.
- Serve hot, garnished with the remaining mozzarella, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil on top.
