Lasagna Soup
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Lasagna Soup on a chilly winter evening. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a spontaneous decision after a long day filled with meetings and to-do lists. I craved a cozy meal that would fill my home with enticing aromas and warmth. As I simmered the ingredients together, the rich scent of garlic and herbs wafted through the air, instantly lifting my spirits. I found myself smiling, thinking of how this dish encapsulates all my favorite lasagna elements, but in a quick, satisfying soup form. It’s perfect for those days when you want all the flavors of lasagna without the fuss of layering. Trust me, after one spoonful, you’ll feel the weight of the day melt away.
Recipe Snapshot
30 mins
10 mins
20 mins
Medium
450 kcal
30 g
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
20 g
6-quart Dutch Oven
Why This Lasagna Soup Hits Different
Comfort in a Bowl
The first reason I adore Lasagna Soup is the sheer comfort it provides. It’s a dish that wraps you in a warm embrace, much like your favorite blanket on a cold night. The combination of tender noodles, flavorful broth, and rich cheeses creates a satisfying experience that’s hard to beat.
Quick and Easy
Another reason this recipe stands out is its simplicity. Unlike traditional lasagna, which can be time-consuming, this soup can come together in about thirty minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, you can have a delicious meal ready without spending hours in the kitchen.
Customizable Goodness
What I love most is how customizable Lasagna Soup can be. Whether you want to make it vegetarian or add extra veggies, the base is incredibly forgiving. You can switch up the proteins and ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it a versatile family favorite.
Family-Friendly
This dish is also a hit with kids. The cheesy, gooey goodness appeals to young taste buds, and you can sneak in nutritious ingredients without them noticing. They’ll be asking for seconds!
Perfect for Leftovers
Lastly, leftovers are fantastic! The flavors deepen and meld together overnight, creating an even more delicious meal the next day. You can easily reheat it for a quick lunch or dinner, making it a fantastic option for meal prep.
What Goes Into Lasagna Soup
The ingredients for Lasagna Soup are thoughtfully chosen to provide that signature lasagna flavor in a comforting broth. The key players, like ground beef, garlic, and marinara sauce, unite to create a rich base, while the layers of cheese add the creamy texture that makes lasagna so beloved.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (90/10)
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 1 ½ tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth, add more later if needed to thin out the soup
- 8 sheets lasagna noodles, broken into sixths
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, plus more for garnish
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces ricotta cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Preparation Steps for Lasagna Soup
Making Lasagna Soup is as enjoyable as eating it! With just a few steps, you’ll create a hearty meal that warms the soul. Let’s dive into the cooking process together and get that delicious aroma filling your kitchen.
In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. When it’s shimmering, add the ground beef and yellow onion. Season with salt and black pepper, and cook until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, about five minutes. As you stir, break the beef apart into small pieces. Make sure not to rush this step; it’s where the flavor builds.
Once browned, you can drain any excess fat if necessary. Add the garlic and tomato paste to the pot, cooking for about a minute. Stir in the chopped parsley, letting these ingredients meld beautifully. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen.
Pour in the marinara sauce, and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Stir everything together thoroughly. This is the moment when the flavors begin to deepen, and the sauce becomes the heart of your soup.
Next, add the chicken broth to the pot. Increase the heat to bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. It’s time to add those broken lasagna noodles. Simmer gently until the noodles are tender, which usually takes about ten minutes.
As the noodles cook, stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking. Once they’re just right, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. This is your chance to make it perfect!
In a separate bowl, mix together the mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, and ricotta cheese until well combined. This cheese mixture will add that creamy element we all love in lasagna.
When you’re ready to serve, ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top each bowl with a generous scoop of the cheese mixture and garnish with extra chopped parsley and basil leaves. It’s the finishing touch that brings the whole dish together.
Things Worth Knowing
- Cook your noodles al dente: They will continue to cook in the soup, so it’s best to keep them slightly firm to avoid mushiness.
- Fresh herbs: Always opt for fresh herbs like parsley and basil when possible, as they provide a vibrant flavor that dried herbs often lack.
- Broth quality matters: Using low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the saltiness of the soup better.
- Mix cheeses just before serving: If you’re not serving right away, hold off on mixing the cheeses until just before you serve to keep them fresh and creamy.
Tips and Tricks about Lasagna Soup
When it comes to making Lasagna Soup, having a few tips under your belt can make all the difference. Here are some handy insights for you to consider.
- Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Freezing: You can freeze unserved soup for up to three months. Just make sure to leave out the cheese until you’re ready to eat.
- Pairing: This soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or crusty bread for dipping.
- Make it spicy: If you enjoy a kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking.
- Garnish ideas: Besides parsley and basil, try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of olive oil before serving for extra flavor.
What to Serve With Lasagna Soup
Serving Lasagna Soup opens up a world of possibilities. Here’s how to elevate your dining experience:
- Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping. Consider a rustic sourdough or focaccia for a delicious accompaniment.
- Garden Salad: A light garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully, balancing the richness of the soup.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: For those who want something indulgent, garlic bread topped with cheese is a fabulous match!
- Occasions: This dish is great for cozy family dinners, casual gatherings, or even as a comforting meal during cold winter evenings.
- Leftover Ideas: If you have leftovers, it also makes for a great lunch the next day, just reheat and enjoy!
FAQ
Conclusion
The beauty of Lasagna Soup lies in its comforting flavors and ease of preparation. It’s a dish that brings warmth to your home and smiles to your table. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for cozy evenings or family gatherings. You’ll find that it’s not just a meal but a delightful experience worth savoring.
Lasagna Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. When it’s shimmering, add the ground beef and yellow onion. Season with salt and black pepper, and cook until browned and the onion is translucent, about five minutes. Stir to break the beef apart.
- Drain any excess fat if necessary. Add garlic and tomato paste, cooking for about a minute. Stir in chopped parsley.
- Pour in marinara sauce and sprinkle in Italian seasoning. Stir everything together thoroughly.
- Add chicken broth to the pot and bring it to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, then add the broken lasagna noodles. Simmer gently until the noodles are tender, about ten minutes.
- Stir occasionally and taste the soup, adjusting seasonings with more salt and pepper if needed.
- In a separate bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, and ricotta cheese until well combined.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls, topping each with a scoop of the cheese mixture and garnishing with extra chopped parsley and basil leaves.
Notes
- Try Different Pasta: Broken lasagna noodles are not your only option here. Any small soup pasta can be used. Try ditalini, small shells, or your favorite pasta shape.
- Make it Vegetarian: Instead of ground meat, make this with a vegan ground meat product, or sauté veggies like zucchini and mushrooms along with the onion. Use veggie stock instead of chicken broth.
- Add the Cheese Last: If you don’t plan to serve the soup right away, wait to mix in the cheese until just before serving.
