Lasagna Soup Recipe (Better Than Your Favorite Lasagna!)
When comfort food cravings strike, nothing quite compares to the warmth of a hearty bowl of soup. The Lasagna Soup Recipe (Better Than Your Favorite Lasagna!) takes all the rich, familiar flavors of classic lasagna and transforms them into a cozy, satisfying dish that is perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings around the table. Imagine the savory aroma of bubbling sauce mingling with the delightful scents of garlic and herbs permeating your kitchen. Each warm, inviting spoonful is a nostalgic reminder of family meals shared, laughter filling the air, and the joy that comes from sharing good food.
This recipe promises to be your new favorite warm hug in a bowl, effortlessly bringing together layers of flavor without the hassle of traditional lasagna. You’ll love how simple yet satisfying it is.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: Six
Difficulty: Easy
Key Ingredients: Ground beef, crushed tomatoes, lasagna noodles, ricotta, mozzarella
Dietary Tags: Comfort food, family-friendly, Italian-inspired
Quick Answer: This Lasagna Soup transforms the beloved flavors of lasagna into an easy, delightful soup perfect for sharing.
Why Make This Recipe
This Lasagna Soup Recipe (Better Than Your Favorite Lasagna!) is brimming with deliciousness while offering an easy cooking experience that allows you to savor time with loved ones rather than being confined to the kitchen. The fragrant combination of herbs and tomatoes along with the richness of the creamy cheese topping creates an unforgettable flavor explosion.
Every scoop oozes with layers of tender pasta and juicy beef, enveloped in a velvety sauce that warms you from the inside out. Picture yourself gathering friends and family around the dinner table, the inviting aroma enticing everyone to dig in. As you pass around bowls of this delectable soup, each bite invites laughter and shared stories, creating an atmosphere of warmth and connection.
Not only is this dish satisfying, but it’s also wonderfully versatile. You can whip it up on busy weeknights or serve it at holiday gatherings, knowing it will be a crowd-pleaser every time. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to all year long.
How to Make Lasagna Soup Recipe (Better Than Your Favorite Lasagna!)
To embark on this delightful cooking journey, you begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat, allowing its rich aroma to fill the air. Add one pound of lean ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks until beautifully browned, about five to six minutes. As it cooks, the kitchen will fill with that unmistakable scent of savory meat. If there’s excess fat, drain it away; we want the flavors to shine through.
Next, stir in one small diced onion, letting it soften for two to three minutes until it becomes translucent, mingling its sweetness with the beef. Add three minced cloves of garlic, and in just thirty seconds, the warm, pungent aroma will create an irresistible backdrop for your soup.
Let’s build that flavor base. Stir in two tablespoons of tomato paste alongside one teaspoon each of dried oregano and Italian seasoning, with a pinch of red pepper flakes if you dare to spice things up. Sprinkle in one teaspoon of kosher salt and half a teaspoon of black pepper, cooking for one minute to toast the spices and enhance their flavors.
Now it’s time for the magic. Pour in one can of crushed tomatoes and one and one half liters of low-sodium beef broth. Bring it to a rolling boil, then reduce to a lively simmer for five minutes, letting the flavors merge and deepen.
With the base complete, add eight to ten broken dry lasagna noodles, allowing them to simmer in the bubbly goodness. Stir occasionally, ensuring they don’t stick, and cook for ten to twelve minutes until they are wonderfully al dente. If your soup thickens too much, just add a splash of hot water to get the perfect consistency.
Now for the creamy finish. Turn the heat to low and slowly stir in a quarter cup of heavy cream, along with half a cup of shredded mozzarella and a third of a cup of grated Parmesan. Watch as the dairy melts into the soup, creating a decadent and comforting layer of creaminess. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper, but avoid boiling the soup after adding the dairy to keep it silky smooth.
Serve the soup by ladling it into bowls, topping each with a dollop of ricotta mixture made by stirring together three-quarters of a cup of ricotta, one tablespoon of fresh basil or parsley, and a pinch of salt. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and extra Parmesan for a touch of elegance.
Now that your kitchen smells amazing, let’s look at what you’ll need.
Ingredients include one tablespoon of olive oil, one pound of lean ground beef, one small onion diced, three cloves of garlic minced, two tablespoons of tomato paste, one teaspoon of dried oregano, one teaspoon of Italian seasoning, a half teaspoon of red pepper flakes if desired, one teaspoon of kosher salt, plus more to taste, a half teaspoon of black pepper, one can of crushed tomatoes, one and one half liters of low-sodium beef or chicken broth, eight to ten dry lasagna noodles broken into bite-size pieces, one-quarter cup of heavy cream or half-and-half if you’re seeking added richness, half a cup of shredded mozzarella, one-third of a cup of grated Parmesan plus some extra for serving, and for the ricotta topping, three-quarters of a cup of ricotta, one tablespoon of chopped fresh basil or parsley, a pinch of salt, and fresh basil or parsley for garnish.
It’s a simple yet effective list that allows all the fresh ingredients to shine.
Why This Recipe Works (The Science)
The beauty of this Lasagna Soup Recipe (Better Than Your Favorite Lasagna!) lies in the balance of flavors and textures. When you cook the ground beef and vegetables first, it lays the foundation of savory depth. The layers of flavor continue to build as you simmer the tomatoes with the herbs, allowing their natural sweetness to develop, while the broth brings everything together into a harmonious mix.
Science Tip:
Incorporating dairy, like heavy cream, at the end prevents curdling, ensuring a rich texture and preventing separation. The key is to introduce it at low heat to maintain that creamy quality.
Expert Insight:
Using broken lasagna noodles not only eliminates the labor of layering but also encourages the noodles to absorb the flavorful broth. This unique inclusion gives each bite a chewy texture that complements the creamy layers of cheese, making for a well-rounded dish.
You will also enjoy a health benefit; tomatoes are rich in lycopene, which supports heart health and may lower the risk of certain chronic diseases.
How to Serve Lasagna Soup Recipe (Better Than Your Favorite Lasagna!)
This Lasagna Soup is extraordinary on its own but becomes a delightful experience when paired with crusty garlic bread or a simple side salad. Serve it in inviting bowls that capture the vibrant red hue of the soup, topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a burst of color. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, celebratory occasions, or a warm meal on a chilly day.
A warm cup of herbal tea or a glass of red wine complements this dish wonderfully, elevating your dining experience to new heights. Sharing stories with loved ones, with each spoonful of this luscious soup, will create memories that linger long after the table is cleared.
How to Store Lasagna Soup Recipe (Better Than Your Favorite Lasagna!)
Once you’ve indulged, leftover Lasagna Soup can be stored with ease. Let the soup cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to four days or frozen for up to two months. As it sits, the flavors deepen overnight, creating even more savory delight for the next day’s reheating.
When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, simply warm it over medium heat until bubbling. To keep the noodles perfectly cooked, consider cooking fresh noodles separately and adding them right before serving. This helps maintain the delightful texture.
Tips to Make Lasagna Soup Recipe (Better Than Your Favorite Lasagna!)
One tip is to use lean ground beef or mix in Italian sausage for a flavorful twist. To elevate the creaminess, consider adding more cheese varieties, such as a blend of mozzarella and provolone. If you are looking for extra veggies, spinach or kale can be deliciously added without compromising on flavor. Always taste as you go to adjust seasonings to your liking for the perfect final product. This is a Lasagna Soup Recipe (Better Than Your Favorite Lasagna!) that you will want to save for your next cozy weekend dinner.
Variations and Substitutions
There are numerous ways to customize this delicious soup. For a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with lentils or diced mushrooms for a hearty texture. If you want to keep it gluten-free, you could swap traditional lasagna noodles for gluten-free pasta. Seasonal vegetables like zucchini or butternut squash can also add vibrancy and nutrition to the mix. For a lighter version, use half and half in place of cream, maintaining a creamy consistency without the extra richness. Each variation allows you to adapt this Lasagna Soup Recipe (Better Than Your Favorite Lasagna!) to fit your needs while still embracing the comforting flavors of the original.
FAQs
Can I make this Lasagna Soup in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to build overnight, just be sure to store the noodles separately if you want them to maintain their texture.
How can I store leftover Lasagna Soup?
Let your Lasagna Soup cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days or can be frozen for up to two months.
What cheese pairs best with this recipe?
For an authentic taste, I recommend using mozzarella and Parmesan as they melt beautifully and add creamy texture, enhancing each bowl.
How spicy is the soup?
The level of spice can be adjusted according to preference. The red pepper flakes are optional, so feel free to omit them for a milder flavor, or add more for an extra kick.
What occasion is best for serving Lasagna Soup?
This hearty soup shines at any gathering, but it’s especially perfect for casual get-togethers or family dinners where everyone can dig in and enjoy together.
People Also Ask
What is Lasagna Soup?
Lasagna Soup is a comforting dish that combines all the classic flavors of lasagna in a soup form, featuring noodles, meat, cheese, and tomato sauce.
Can I use different types of meat?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute ground turkey or sausage for ground beef for a different twist.
Is it possible to make this soup vegan?
Definitely! Use plant-based proteins, vegan cheese, and vegetable broth instead of meat and dairy for a tasty vegan version of this soup.
Nutritional Information
Calories: Four hundred
Protein: Twenty-five grams
Carbs: Thirty grams
Fat: Twenty-two grams
Fiber: Two grams
Vitamin C: Twenty percent of the daily value
Rich in fiber and naturally low in fat, this Lasagna Soup is both a nourishing and heartwarming choice for your dining table.
Conclusion
The Lasagna Soup Recipe (Better Than Your Favorite Lasagna!) weaves together comforting flavors, inviting textures, and the warmth of shared meals. With its soothing aroma and delectable flavor, it’s destined to become a cherished dish in your home. As you savor each bowl, remember that good food brings us together, creating connections that nourish both body and soul. Sip slowly, breathe deeply, and let every glass remind you that wellness can be simple.
Lasagna Soup
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing
- 1 pound lean ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or sausage
- 1 small onion, diced Adds sweetness and flavor
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Provides aromatic flavor
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste Enhances depth of flavor
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional for spice
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt Plus more to taste
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 1.5 liters low-sodium beef broth Can substitute with chicken broth
- 8-10 pieces dry lasagna noodles, broken Into bite-size pieces
- 0.25 cup heavy cream For richness, can substitute half-and-half
- 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella For creaminess
- 0.33 cup grated Parmesan Plus some extra for serving
For the Ricotta Topping
- 0.75 cup ricotta
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or parsley
- 1 pinch salt
- to taste fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Mix in the tomato paste, oregano, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper, cooking for 1 minute.
Cooking the Soup
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and beef broth; bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add broken lasagna noodles and simmer for 10-12 minutes until al dente.
- If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of hot water.
Finishing Touches
- Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream, shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve in bowls topped with ricotta mixture and garnish with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan.