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 everywhere! Perfect for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend dinner, this dish brings the heartiness of traditional lasagna into a warm, comforting bowl of soup. With its rich flavors and simple ingredients, lasagna soup is sure to become a go-to favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Prepare this delicious meal in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Flavorful Comfort: Enjoy all the classic flavors of lasagna in a hearty soup format that satisfies.
- Flexible Ingredients: Use what you have on hand! Substitute ground beef with turkey or add your favorite vegetables.
- Family-Friendly: This recipe appeals to all ages, ensuring everyone at the table leaves happy.
- Great for Leftovers: The flavors deepen overnight, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.
Tools and Preparation
To make this lasagna soup, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Knife and Cutting Board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Ideal for cooking soups as it distributes heat evenly and holds plenty of ingredients.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accuracy in ingredient quantities for consistent results.
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 Meat and Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and ground beef; cook until the beef is browned.
Step 2: Add Tomato Base
- Once the meat is cooked, stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
Step 3: Pour in Broth
- Add chicken broth to the pot along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4: Incorporate Pasta
- Once boiling, add uncooked bowtie pasta.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer for about 10 minutes until pasta is tender.
Step 5: Final Touches
- Stir in ricotta cheese until melted through.
- Top with mozzarella cheese and allow it to melt slightly before serving.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Ladle soup into bowls; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your hearty lasagna soup!
How to Serve Lasagna Soup
Lasagna soup is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want it as a hearty main course or as part of a larger meal, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.
With Crusty Bread
- Serve warm slices of crusty bread alongside the soup for dipping. The bread absorbs the flavorful broth perfectly.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish each bowl with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. This enhances both presentation and flavor.
Accompanied by Salad
- Pair lasagna soup with a simple green salad. A light vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup beautifully.
With Extra Cheese
- For cheese lovers, add additional mozzarella or Parmesan on top before serving. It melts into the hot soup for an indulgent touch.
As a Meal Prep Option
- Store leftovers in individual portions for easy reheating during busy weekdays. This makes it a convenient choice for meal prep enthusiasts.
In a Bread Bowl
- For a fun twist, serve lasagna soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This not only looks impressive but also adds extra flavor from the bread.
How to Perfect Lasagna Soup
To make your lasagna soup even more delicious, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your dish.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh herbs and quality meats. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall flavor profile.
Adjust Consistency: If your soup is too thick, add more water or broth until it reaches your desired consistency. A soupy texture allows for better flavors to meld together.
Experiment with Pasta Types: While bowtie pasta works great, feel free to try other shapes such as shells or fusilli for a fun variation.
Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking helps the flavors develop further. This resting period can make a noticeable difference in taste.
Customize Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings based on your preference. More Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper can add depth and heat.
Best Side Dishes for Lasagna Soup
Completing your meal with side dishes can elevate your dining experience even more. Here are some great options to enjoy alongside your lasagna soup.
Garlic Bread: Classic garlic bread is always a favorite. Its buttery flavor pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of lasagna soup.
Caesar Salad: A Caesar salad adds crunch and creaminess, balancing out the richness of the soup perfectly.
Caprese Salad: With fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, this salad provides freshness that complements the hearty lasagna flavors well.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasting vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots brings out their natural sweetness and adds a nutritious side option.
Antipasto Platter: Create an antipasto platter with cured meats, olives, and cheeses for a delightful appetizer that sets the tone for Italian cuisine.
Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized treats filled with cheese and herbs make an excellent finger food option that guests will love!
Polenta Cakes: Soft or crispy polenta cakes can be served as an alternative side that pairs nicely with lasagna soup’s flavors.
Focaccia Bread: A slice of homemade focaccia provides great texture and taste when served alongside this rich dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making lasagna soup is simple, but it’s easy to slip up. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the sautéing – Not sautéing the onions and garlic can lead to a bland flavor. Always take a few minutes to cook them until fragrant.
- Ignoring seasoning – Failing to season properly can leave your soup flat. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
- Overcooking the pasta – Adding pasta too early can make it mushy. Cook it just until al dente, as it will continue cooking in the soup.
- Neglecting cheese options – Using only one type of cheese can limit flavors. Mix ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan for a richer taste.
- Using cold broth – Cold broth can lower the cooking temperature. Always use room temperature or warm broth for quicker cooking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store lasagna soup in an airtight container.
- It can last in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Freezing Lasagna Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Lasagna soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Lasagna Soup
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes, or until hot.
- Microwave – Heat in microwave-safe containers in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval until warm.
- Stovetop – Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making lasagna soup.
What is Lasagna Soup?
Lasagna soup combines all the flavors of traditional lasagna in a comforting, hearty soup form. It’s perfect for those who love lasagna but want something easier.
Can I customize my Lasagna Soup?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or use different types of meat such as sausage or turkey for variety.
How do I thicken Lasagna Soup?
If your lasagna soup is too thin, simmer it uncovered to reduce liquid. You can also add more tomato paste or small amounts of cornstarch mixed with water.
Is Lasagna Soup healthy?
Lasagna soup can be healthy! You can control ingredients and portion sizes. Consider adding more vegetables and using lean meats for a nutritious meal.
Final Thoughts
This lasagna soup recipe offers all the comfort of traditional lasagna without the fuss. It’s versatile too—feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients or adjust seasonings. Give it a try and enjoy a cozy bowl that’s sure to make everyone happy!
Lasagna Soup
Lasagna Soup is your new favorite comfort dish, combining the rich flavors of traditional lasagna into a warm, hearty bowl. This easy-to-make recipe requires minimal effort and delivers maximum satisfaction, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With layers of savory ground beef, flavorful tomatoes, and tender pasta enveloped in a creamy broth, this dish is topped with melty cheese and fresh herbs for an irresistible finish. Enjoy this versatile soup as is or customize it with your favorite ingredients for a personalized touch. Serve with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal that the whole family will love!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
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)
- 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
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onions until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and ground beef; cook until browned.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste until well combined.
- Pour in chicken broth along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
- Add uncooked bowtie pasta and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for about 10 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Mix in ricotta cheese until melted through, then top with mozzarella cheese and let melt slightly before serving.
- Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
