This delectable lasagna soup recipe is an easy way to enjoy all the comfort of lasagna with minimal work. It’s saucy, cozy, and loved by families for its rich flavors and heartiness. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this soup brings together the best elements of classic lasagna in a warm, inviting bowl.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This lasagna soup can be prepared in just 45 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Comfort: The combination of ground beef, tomatoes, and Italian seasoning creates a comforting dish that warms the soul.
- Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main dish or pair it with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this fun twist on traditional lasagna.
- One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup required since this delicious meal is made in one pot!
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the essential tools before you start. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating your flavorful lasagna soup.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly while allowing for ample space to stir.
- Wooden spoon: Great for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 1-2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or preferred oil)
– 1 pound Ground Beef
– 1 large Onion (diced)
– 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
– 1 (15-ounce can) Diced Tomatoes (don’t drain)
– 1 (15-ounce can) Tomato Sauce (or tomato puree)
– 1/3 cup Tomato Paste (about half of a 6-ounce can)
– 4 cups Chicken Broth
– 1-2 cups Water (to adjust consistency)
– 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
– 1 teaspoon Sea Salt (or more as needed to adjust flavor)
– Black Pepper (to taste)
– 8 ounces Bowtie Pasta (uncooked) (see footnote)
– 1/2 cup Ricotta Cheese
– 2 ounces Mozzarella Cheese (shredded, about 1/2 cup)
– 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (shaved, shredded, or fresh grated)
– 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped)
How to Make Lasagna Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in your large pot over medium heat.
Add diced onions and minced garlic; sauté until onions are translucent.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Once the aromatics are ready:
Add ground beef to the pot.
Cook until browned, breaking it apart with your spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Next, incorporate the canned tomatoes:
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
Pour in chicken broth along with water to reach desired consistency.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Season your mixture:
Add Italian seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper.
Bring to a boil; reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
Step 5: Cook Pasta
While the soup simmers:
Stir in uncooked bowtie pasta.
Continue cooking until pasta is al dente according to package instructions.
Step 6: Add Cheeses
Finish off your delightful lasagna soup:
Remove from heat; stir in ricotta cheese until well combined.
Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 7: Serve With Garnish
Finally:
Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!
How to Serve Lasagna Soup
Lasagna soup is a delightful dish that brings the comfort of lasagna in a cozy bowl. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your soup experience.
With Fresh Bread
- Garlic Bread – Pair your lasagna soup with warm, buttery garlic bread for a satisfying crunch.
- Crusty Baguette – A slice of crusty baguette can soak up the delicious broth, making each bite even more enjoyable.
With Cheese
- Parmesan Topping – Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra burst of flavor.
- Mozzarella Melts – Add some shredded mozzarella cheese and let it melt into the warm soup for a cheesy delight.
With Herbs
- Fresh Basil – Garnish your soup with fresh basil leaves to add a fragrant touch.
- Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
As a Complete Meal
- Salad Side – Serve with a light side salad to balance the richness of the soup.
- Steamed Vegetables – Pair with steamed broccoli or green beans for added nutrition and texture.
How to Perfect Lasagna Soup
Making lasagna soup is simple, but these tips will help you achieve perfection.
- Use Quality Ingredients – Start with fresh vegetables and high-quality meat for the best flavor.
- Adjust Consistency – If your soup is too thick, add water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Season to Taste – Always taste your soup before serving, as salt levels can vary based on ingredients.
- Cook Pasta Separately – For best results, cook pasta separately and add it just before serving to avoid sogginess.
Best Side Dishes for Lasagna Soup
Completing your lasagna soup meal is easy with these tasty side dishes. They complement the flavors perfectly.
- Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and creaminess that pairs well with the soup.
- Garlic Knots – These soft, buttery knots are perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
- Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory stuffed mushrooms make an excellent appetizer alongside your meal.
- Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing bite.
- Roasted Vegetables – A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables provides nutrition and color to your plate.
- Antipasto Platter – A variety of cured meats, olives, and cheeses create an inviting starter before the main course.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making lasagna soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Using the wrong pasta: Using large pasta shapes can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to bowtie or similar small shapes that cook well in soup.
- Not seasoning enough: Insufficient seasoning will result in bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust salt and spices for the best flavor.
- Overcooking the pasta: Pasta can become mushy if overcooked. Add it towards the end of cooking and check for doneness frequently.
- Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds brightness and flavor. Don’t skip it; sprinkle it on top just before serving for a fresh touch.
- Ignoring ingredient quality: Low-quality canned tomatoes can affect flavor. Choose high-quality brands for the best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store lasagna soup in an airtight container.
- It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Lasagna Soup
- Freeze lasagna soup in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Lasagna Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warm throughout, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, stirring every minute until heated through.
- Stovetop: Reheat on low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed to your liking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making lasagna soup.
What is Lasagna Soup?
Lasagna soup combines all the delicious flavors of traditional lasagna into a comforting bowl of soup. It includes pasta, meat, cheese, and rich tomato sauce.
How do I make Lasagna Soup?
To make lasagna soup, sauté onions and garlic, add ground beef, then mix in tomatoes and broth. Simmer with seasonings before adding pasta and cheese.
Can I customize my Lasagna Soup?
Absolutely! You can customize your lasagna soup by adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or using different types of cheese according to your preference.
How long does Lasagna Soup last?
Lasagna soup lasts about 4 days in the refrigerator and can be frozen for up to 3 months if stored properly.
Can I use other meats in my Lasagna Soup?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives to beef, offering a lighter option while still being flavorful.
Final Thoughts
This lasagna soup recipe is not only convenient but also incredibly satisfying. Its cozy flavors make it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. Feel free to experiment with ingredients and customize it to your taste!
Lasagna Soup
Lasagna Soup is the ultimate comfort food that transforms the traditional lasagna into a cozy, flavorful bowl of goodness. This easy-to-make dish combines all the beloved elements of classic lasagna—rich tomato sauce, savory ground beef, and creamy cheeses—into a hearty soup that’s perfect for any night of the week. In just 45 minutes, you can whip up this delightful meal that will warm your soul and satisfy your family’s appetites. Whether enjoyed as a standalone dish or paired with garlic bread and a salad, each spoonful promises comforting flavors that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1-2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 pound Ground Beef
- 1 large Onion (diced)
- 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 (15-ounce can) Diced Tomatoes (don't drain)
- 1 (15-ounce can) Tomato Sauce (or tomato puree)
- 1/3 cup Tomato Paste (about half of a 6-ounce can)
- 4 cups Chicken Broth
- 1-2 cups Water (to adjust consistency)
- 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Sea Salt (or more as needed to adjust flavor)
- Black Pepper (to taste)
- 8 ounces Bowtie Pasta (uncooked)
- 1/2 cup Ricotta Cheese
- 2 ounces Mozzarella Cheese (shredded, about 1/2 cup)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (shaved, shredded, or fresh grated)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Sauté diced onions and minced garlic until translucent.
- Add ground beef, cooking until browned; drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chicken broth, and water to desired consistency.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil then simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add uncooked bowtie pasta and cook until al dente.
- Off heat, mix in ricotta cheese and top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
