Lasagna Soup Recipe: If you love traditional lasagna but dread the long preparation process, lasagna soup is the perfect solution! This hearty and flavorful dish brings all the elements of lasagna—ground meat, pasta, cheese, and tomatoes—into one comforting bowl.
It’s much quicker than classic lasagna and offers the same richness, with the bonus of being versatile for various dietary preferences.
Whether you’re craving comfort food on a chilly night or need a quick weeknight meal, lasagna soup will satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul.
Ingredients Required for Lasagna Soup
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious soup.
- Ground beef or Italian sausage – 1 pound
- Onion – 1 medium, diced
- Garlic cloves – 4, minced
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Crushed tomatoes – 28 oz can
- Chicken or beef broth – 6 cups
- Lasagna noodles – 8 to 10, broken into pieces
- Ricotta cheese – ½ cup
- Mozzarella cheese – 1 cup, shredded
- Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated
- Italian seasoning – 1 tablespoon
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley – for garnish
Optional Ingredients:
- Red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
- Spinach or kale for added greens
- Ground turkey or plant-based meat for variation
Essential Equipment for Making Lasagna Soup
You don’t need fancy gadgets, but having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation:
- A large Dutch oven or stockpot
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Ladle for serving the soup
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater (if grating fresh Parmesan)
How to Choose the Best Ingredients
To make the most flavorful lasagna soup, opt for high-quality ingredients:
- Ground Meat: Use Italian sausage for bold flavors or lean ground beef for a lighter option. Ground turkey or vegetarian alternatives can also work.
- Pasta: Broken lasagna noodles give the authentic lasagna vibe, but any pasta shape works if you’re in a pinch.
- Cheese: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully, while Parmesan adds depth. Use ricotta for creaminess.
- Broth: Chicken broth adds subtle sweetness, while beef broth gives the soup more depth and richness.
Preparation Time and Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
How To Make Lasagna Soup – Step by Step Guide
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
Start by gathering and prepping everything you need. Dice the onions, mince the garlic, and measure out all the seasonings and cheese. Break the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces to ensure they cook evenly in the soup. If you’re adding vegetables like spinach, rinse them thoroughly and set them aside for later.
Step 2: Browning the Meat and Aromatics
In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef or sausage and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease to keep the soup from becoming oily.
Next, stir in the onions and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to bring out the flavors.
Step 3: Adding Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in the broth and stir in the crushed tomatoes. This will form the flavorful base of your soup. If you want a slightly thicker consistency, you can add a tablespoon of tomato paste at this stage. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer.
Step 4: Incorporating the Pasta
Add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot and stir well to prevent them from sticking. Simmer the soup on low heat until the pasta is tender but not mushy—usually around 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on the pasta to ensure it doesn’t overcook. You can adjust the liquid by adding more broth if needed.
Step 5: Simmering the Soup to Perfection
Let the soup simmer gently for 20-25 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally and taste for seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or Italian herbs as needed. The longer it simmers, the richer the taste becomes.
Step 6: Adding the Cheesy Element
Once the soup is ready, stir in the ricotta cheese for a creamy texture. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan on top just before serving. If you prefer a gooier texture, let the cheese melt directly in the hot soup for a minute
Customizing the Soup for Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based meat and vegetable broth.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute lasagna noodles with gluten-free pasta.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes while browning the meat.
- Dairy-Free: Use cashew cream instead of ricotta, and vegan cheese alternatives.
Serving Suggestions and Garnishes
Serve the lasagna soup with garlic bread or a simple side salad. Top each bowl with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. A sprinkle of Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil can elevate the presentation.
Storage Tips and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to maintain the soup’s consistency since the pasta tends to absorb liquid over time. Avoid overcooking the pasta while reheating.
FAQs about Lasagna Soup Recipe
1. What is Lasagna Soup?
Lasagna soup is a delicious, deconstructed version of the classic Italian lasagna dish. It features rich tomato broth, ground meat, pasta, cheese, and Italian herbs, creating a hearty, comforting meal.
2. What ingredients are needed for Lasagna Soup?
Key ingredients include ground beef or sausage, onions, garlic, tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, chicken or beef broth, lasagna noodles, ricotta or mozzarella cheese, and Italian seasonings like oregano and basil.
3. Can I make Lasagna Soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the meat with plant-based proteins or vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or lentils to make a vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth instead of meat-based broth for added flavor.
4. How long does it take to prepare Lasagna Soup?
On average, it takes about 30-45 minutes to cook. This time may vary depending on whether you are using pre-cooked pasta or preparing it fresh in the soup.
5. Can Lasagna Soup be made ahead of time?
Yes, the soup can be made in advance. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the pasta separate to prevent it from absorbing too much liquid. Reheat before serving and add the cooked pasta when ready to eat.
6. Can I freeze Lasagna Soup?
Yes, lasagna soup freezes well. For best results, freeze the soup base without the pasta. When reheating, add freshly cooked noodles to maintain the texture.
7. What can I serve with Lasagna Soup?
Lasagna soup pairs well with garlic bread, a side salad, or crusty bread. You can also add extra toppings like shredded cheese, fresh basil, or a dollop of ricotta for enhanced flavor.
Conclusion
Lasagna soup offers the perfect combination of cozy and convenient. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the classic flavors of lasagna with half the effort. With its versatility and customizable options, this recipe fits various dietary needs and personal tastes. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to whip up this hearty dish!
References
For further reading and validation of the information provided in the Lasagna Soup Recipe, we recommend consulting these reputable sources:
- AllRecipes – A trusted platform for detailed recipes and cooking tips.
- Food Network – Explore chef-inspired lasagna variations and cooking insights.
- The Kitchn – Offers practical guides for meal preparation and comfort food recipes.
- Bon Appétit – Known for high-quality content on classic and creative recipes.
- Delish – Your go-to source for trendy and easy-to-make recipes.
These references provide valuable insights into the art of preparing flavorful lasagna soup, ensuring accuracy and consistency in your cooking.
