Lasagna soup is a warm hug in a bowl, swirling with rich tomato sauce, tender pasta, and gooey cheese that makes your taste buds sing. Imagine the savory aroma wafting through your kitchen as you sip on this comforting dish, perfect for chilly nights or casual get-togethers. Cozy White Bean Soup for Chilly Evenings Chicken Pot Pie Pasta for a Twist Italian Meatball Soup for Comfort. For more inspiration, check out this Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe.
Picture this: it’s a cold Friday evening, and I’m cozied up on the couch with my favorite blanket, ready to dive into a big bowl of lasagna soup. Everyone gathers around to share stories and laugh until our sides hurt. This dish never fails to bring us together, igniting joy and nostalgia with every slurp.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Lasagna soup is surprisingly easy to whip up for busy weeknights or special gatherings
- The aroma will make your mouth water long before it hits the table
- Visually, it’s a feast for the eyes with vibrant colors and textures
- Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; feel free to use any proteins or veggies you have on hand
I once made this dish for a potluck, and it vanished faster than my cat at the sound of a can opener.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: Choose lean meat for less grease; sausage adds an extra flavor kick.
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Onion: A medium onion diced finely enhances the base flavor; don’t skip this!
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves elevate the taste; crush them just before using for maximum aroma.
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Canned Diced Tomatoes: Opt for fire-roasted tomatoes to add depth; their smoky flavor is sublime.
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Tomato Sauce: Use quality sauce for optimal taste; it serves as the backbone of this soup.
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Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth allows you to control the saltiness while adding richness.
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Pasta: Use mini shells or broken lasagna sheets; they soak up all that delicious sauce perfectly. For more inspiration, check out this Crockpot Ravioli Casserole recipe.
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Ricotta Cheese: A dollop of ricotta adds creaminess and richness that makes each bite heavenly.
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Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Use fresh mozzarella if possible; its meltiness is unbeatable in this dish.
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Basil and Oregano: Fresh herbs brighten the flavors; dried herbs work if fresh isn’t available.
For seasoning:
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing flavors; adjust according to your taste preferences.
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Red Pepper Flakes: Optional but recommended for those who love a little heat in their soup.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sautéing Aromatics and Meat: Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef or sausage along with diced onion until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently until everything looks deliciously golden.
Add Garlic and Spices: Toss in minced garlic once meat is cooked through. Stir in basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes; let the spices bloom for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in Tomatoes and Broth: Next, add canned diced tomatoes (with juices) and tomato sauce into the pot. Pour in chicken broth while stirring gently to combine everything nicely.
Bring It All Together With Pasta: Once bubbling away beautifully, toss in your pasta of choice. Simmer uncovered for about 10-12 minutes until pasta is al dente; keep an eye on it so it doesn’t turn mushy!
Add Creamy Elements Last : Remove from heat before stirring in ricotta cheese until fully combined. Top generously with shredded mozzarella cheese that melts into gooey perfection.
Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy every last spoonful of this hearty lasagna soup as it warms both your belly and soul!
You Must Know
- Lasagna soup is not just a dish; it’s a cozy hug in a bowl
- The combination of layers of flavors and textures makes it an instant favorite
- Plus, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground meat, then add onions and garlic for flavor. Simultaneously, cook your pasta until al dente, ensuring everything comes together seamlessly in one pot.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out meats or use veggies for a vegetarian version. Experiment with different cheeses—ricotta, mozzarella, or even goat cheese could add unique flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your noodles are slightly undercooked; they’ll absorb some liquid while resting
- Layering fresh basil or spinach can elevate the soup’s flavor profile significantly
- Always taste before serving to adjust seasoning as necessary
The first time I made lasagna soup, my friend declared it “life-changing.” Who knew something so simple could spark such joy? It became the go-to recipe for gatherings and cold nights! Chicken Tortilla Soup for Cozy Nights.
FAQ
Can I make lasagna soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute meat with mushrooms, lentils, or your favorite vegetables for a hearty option.
How do I make lasagna soup creamy?
Add cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese at the end for that extra richness.
What toppings work best with lasagna soup?
Top with fresh basil, grated parmesan, or croutons for added crunch and flavor.
Lasagna Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Lasagna soup is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, offering all the comforting flavors of lasagna in a cozy, hearty bowl. With layers of rich tomato sauce, tender pasta, and creamy cheeses, this recipe is perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings with friends and family. Easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite proteins and vegetables, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (preferably fire-roasted)
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups mini pasta shells or broken lasagna sheets
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground meat with diced onion for about 5–7 minutes until golden.
- Stir in minced garlic, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes; cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, and chicken broth; stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil and add pasta; simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes until pasta is al dente.
- Remove from heat and stir in ricotta cheese until combined; top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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