Imagine turning the classic lasagna into a warm, hearty soup in just 50 minutes. This lasagna soup recipe combines the rich flavors of Italian cuisine with the ease of a one-pot meal. It has been shared 192 times on social media and is a favorite for busy families.
Your lasagna soup will have all the tasty parts of the classic dish. You’ll get tender noodles, savory meats, and a rich tomato broth. Unlike regular lasagna, this soup is full of flavor but easy to make. It’s great for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Ready in under 50 minutes
- Serves 6-8 people
- One-pot cooking method
- Combines classic lasagna flavors in soup form
- Easily customizable recipe
- Trending on social media platforms
Why This One-Pot Italian Comfort Soup Will Become Your New Favorite
Looking for a tasty meal that won’t take up your whole evening? The easy lasagna soup recipe is perfect. It turns the classic lasagna into a comforting soup. This soup is full of flavor and easy to make.
Quick and Easy Preparation
Want a meal that tastes like it came from a restaurant but doesn’t take hours to make? This recipe is your answer. It cooks in just 30 minutes, making enough for 6-8 people.
- Preparation time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Perfect for Busy Weeknights
Busy families and professionals will love this lasagna soup. No complicated layering, no long baking times. It’s a quick, nutritious meal that’s ready in under an hour.
“Delicious doesn’t have to mean difficult” – Home Cook Wisdom
Minimal Cleanup Required
This easy lasagna soup recipe is great because it’s easy to clean up. Cooking everything in one pot means less time washing dishes. You can enjoy your meal sooner.
- Single pot cooking
- Easy ingredient integration
- Quick washing up
This soup is not just easy to make. It’s also packed with nutrition, including 28g of protein per serving. It’s a healthy choice for your family’s dinner.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Lasagna Soup
Making a tasty lasagna soup starts with picking the right ingredients. You’ll learn how each part adds to the soup’s rich, comforting taste.
Your lasagna soup ingredients will turn a simple meal into a special treat. Let’s look at the key parts that make this soup stand out:
- Meats: 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- Aromatics: Diced onions and minced garlic
- Tomato Base:
- 2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- Liquid: 4 cups beef or chicken broth
- Pasta: 6-8 ounces uncooked lasagna noodles
Pro tip: The quality of your ingredients can make or break the soup’s flavor!
| Ingredient Category | Recommended Quantity | Flavor Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Meat | 1-1½ pounds | Provides rich, deep flavor |
| Cheese Blend | 8 oz ricotta 1/2 cup Parmesan 1½ cups mozzarella | Adds creamy texture and richness |
| Seasonings | Italian seasoning Salt and pepper | Enhances overall taste profile |
“The secret to great lasagna soup is balancing your ingredients with love and precision.” – Culinary Experts
Your cheese mix will be the soup’s highlight. Mix 1 cup ricotta, 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes, and ½ teaspoon salt for a tasty topping.
Lasagna soup is all about being flexible. Try different meats or swap ingredients to fit your diet while keeping the flavor.
The Perfect Blend of Meats: Italian Sausage and Ground Beef
Creating the ultimate lasagna soup recipe starts with the right meat mix. Ground beef and Italian sausage make a flavor-packed meal. It will excite your taste buds.
Choosing the right meat mix is key for your lasagna soup. Here’s what you need to know:
Selecting Premium Meat Combinations
- Use a ½ pound of ground beef and ½ pound of mild Italian sausage
- Aim for 80/20 meat-to-fat ratio for optimal flavor
- Consider mixing ground turkey for a leaner option
Flavor Enhancement Techniques
To make your lasagna soup better, follow these tips:
- Brown meats thoroughly to develop deep, rich flavors
- Drain excess fat to prevent greasiness
- Season generously with herbs like oregano and basil
Lean vs. Regular Meat Options
| Meat Type | Fat Content | Flavor Profile | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef (80/20) | 20% | Rich, Robust | Traditional Lasagna Soup |
| Ground Turkey | 7% | Mild, Lean | Health-Conscious Version |
| Italian Sausage | 25-30% | Spicy, Herbal | Flavor Intensity Boost |
“The secret to an incredible lasagna soup is in the meat selection and preparation.” – Professional Chef
Your lasagna soup recipe will shine with the right meat blend. Experiment and find your perfect combination!
Creating the Rich Tomato-Based Broth
Making the perfect lasagna soup starts with a flavorful tomato broth. You’ll mix different ingredients to get a rich taste. This taste captures the essence of traditional lasagna in soup form.
To make a great lasagna soup broth, you need the right ingredients:
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup tomato paste
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 3 cups beef broth
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
The secret to a great broth is balancing tomato flavor with herbs. You’ll add:
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
“The secret to a remarkable lasagna soup is layering flavors through carefully selected ingredients and precise seasoning.”
To start, sauté 8 minced garlic cloves and 1 large yellow onion in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. This step makes your soup’s flavors pop.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Crushed Tomatoes | 28 oz | Primary tomato base |
| Tomato Paste | ½ cup | Concentrated tomato flavor |
| Chicken Broth | 3 cups | Liquid base |
| Beef Broth | 3 cups | Additional depth |
| Heavy Cream | ½ cup | Richness and smoothness |
If you want a lighter soup, use milk instead of heavy cream. Or, skip it for a leaner taste. The goal is to make a lasagna soup that’s comforting and fits your taste.
Lasagna Soup: Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making the perfect easy lasagna soup recipe needs focus on each step. This guide will show you how to turn simple ingredients into a tasty one-pot meal. It will have all the rich flavors of traditional lasagna.
Browning the Meats to Perfection
Begin by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and 1 pound of Italian sausage. Break the meats into small pieces as they cook. This will help them get a deep, caramelized flavor.
Drain excess grease, keeping just enough to make the soup richer.
Building a Robust Flavor Base
After browning the meats, start building the flavor base by adding:
- 4 minced garlic cloves
- 1 diced onion
- 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 1 sprig of oregano
Sauté these aromatics for 2 minutes. This will release their essential oils and make a fragrant base for your lasagna soup.
Adding Pasta and Final Touches
Pour in 4 cups of chicken stock, a 24 oz jar of Italian pasta sauce, and a 14 oz can of crushed tomatoes. Break 10-11 lasagna noodles into 2-inch pieces and add them to the pot. Simmer for about 9 minutes until the pasta is tender.
Finish your easy lasagna soup by stirring in ⅓ cup of heavy cream and sprinkling ⅓ cup each of mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Top with fresh chopped basil for a burst of herbaceous flavor.
“The secret to an incredible lasagna soup is layering flavors and letting each ingredient shine.”
Mastering the Pasta Element: Tips for Perfect Noodles
Creating the perfect lasagna soup starts with handling your pasta right. Traditional lasagna noodles can make your soup amazing with a few simple steps.
To make your lasagna soup recipe great, break up whole lasagna noodles. This is key for the right texture and taste. Here are some important tips:
- Break lasagna noodles into three or four pieces before adding to the soup
- No need for special no-boil noodles, but they can reduce cooking time by about 5 minutes
- Regular lasagna noodles work perfectly when cut into smaller pieces
Cooking pasta in soup is different from regular pasta. The soup’s liquid cooks the noodles and adds rich flavors.
“The secret to perfect pasta in soup is breaking it into manageable pieces that capture both broth and flavor in every bite.”
Here are some pro tips for perfect pasta in your lasagna soup:
- Add pasta during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking
- Check pasta tenderness before serving
Your goal is al dente pasta. It should be firm but not mushy. The right method makes each spoonful of lasagna soup a joy.
The Ultimate Cheese Combination
Lasagna soup turns the classic Italian dish into a cozy one-pot meal. Cheese is the star here. The right mix can make your soup go from good to amazing. It becomes a rich, satisfying dish that feels like real lasagna.
Ricotta Mixture Preparation
Making the perfect ricotta mix is key for your lasagna soup. You need to mix ricotta with special ingredients for the best flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Use 15 oz of full-fat ricotta cheese
- Add a pinch of salt
- Sprinkle in finely chopped fresh Italian parsley
- Optional: Include a touch of crushed red pepper for heat
Mozzarella and Parmesan Integration
The cheese mix in lasagna soup combines three amazing Italian cheeses. You aim for a blend that melts well and adds flavor to every bite.
| Cheese Type | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ricotta | 15 oz | Creamy base mixture |
| Mozzarella | 1 cup (shredded) | Stretchy, melting texture |
| Parmesan | 1/2 cup (freshly grated) | Sharp, aged flavor boost |
Pro tip for your lasagna soup: Add the cheeses slowly and stir well. This ensures they mix evenly. Mozzarella makes the soup cheesy and stretchy. Parmesan adds a nutty, complex taste that makes your soup stand out.
“Cheese is the soul of lasagna soup – treat it with respect!” – Italian Cooking Wisdom
Looking for a hearty dinner or a cozy weekend meal? This cheese mix will make your lasagna soup unforgettable.
Customization Options and Variations
Your lasagna soup recipe is super versatile. You can change it to fit any taste or diet. Want to add more nutrition or try new flavors? These options let you make your lasagna soup just right for you.
Vegetable Additions
- Spinach: Add fresh or frozen spinach for extra nutrients
- Mushrooms: Create depth with sliced cremini or shiitake mushrooms
- Bell peppers: Introduce color and sweet flavor
- Zucchini: Incorporate for additional vegetable content
Protein Alternatives
- Ground turkey: Leaner option with similar texture
- Plant-based meat substitutes: Perfect for vegetarian versions
- Chicken: Lighter protein alternative
- Tofu crumbles: Vegan-friendly protein source
Pro tip: When substituting proteins, maintain the same weight measurements to ensure consistent flavor and texture in your lasagna soup recipe.
Spice Level Adjustments
- Red pepper flakes: Add heat to taste
- Smoked paprika: Introduce subtle smokiness
- Italian herb blend: Enhance overall flavor profile
“Cooking is about personal expression – don’t be afraid to make this lasagna soup recipe uniquely yours!”
| Variation Type | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Gluten-Free | Use gluten-free lasagna noodles |
| Low-Carb | Replace noodles with zucchini noodles |
| Dairy-Free | Omit cheese or use dairy-free alternatives |
The beauty of this lasagna soup recipe is its adaptability. Every change adds a new twist to this beloved dish. This ensures you’ll always find something new to love about it.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Keeping your lasagna soup fresh is key. Whether you’re saving leftovers or making ahead, these tips will help. They ensure your soup stays tasty and smooth.
Refrigeration Best Practices
Store your lasagna soup in a sealed container in the fridge for 3-5 days. For the best taste:
- Cool the soup down before storing
- Choose glass or BPA-free plastic containers
- Avoid strong-smelling foods nearby
Freezing Instructions
Freezing lasagna soup needs careful planning. A tip: freeze without pasta to avoid soggy noodles.
| Storage Method | Duration | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator Storage | 3-5 days | Store in airtight container |
| Freezer Storage | Up to 3 months | Freeze without pasta, add fresh noodles when reheating |
Reheating Your Lasagna Soup
Ready to enjoy your lasagna soup? Here’s how to reheat:
- Microwave: 1-2 minutes, stir halfway
- Stovetop: Medium heat until warm
- Add fresh pasta for the best texture
“The key to great lasagna soup is maintaining its original flavors and texture, even after storage.” – Culinary Chef
By sticking to these tips, your lasagna soup will taste just as good as when you first made it. Enjoy your meal with ease and lots of flavor!
Serving Suggestions and Garnishes
Your lasagna soup recipe is a feast for the eyes and taste buds. The right garnishes can turn a tasty dish into a masterpiece.
When serving your lasagna soup, consider these elegant garnishing techniques:
- Add a generous dollop of creamy ricotta in the center
- Sprinkle fresh chopped basil or parsley
- Grate additional Parmesan cheese on top
- Drizzle high-quality extra virgin olive oil
Complement your lasagna soup with perfect side dishes that elevate the entire meal experience:
| Side Dish | Pairing Notes |
|---|---|
| Garlic Bread | Crispy and perfect for dipping |
| Mixed Green Salad | Light and refreshing contrast |
| Bruschetta | Adds Mediterranean flair |
“The secret to an unforgettable lasagna soup is in the details of its presentation.” – Chef Mario Rossi
Pro tip for your lasagna soup recipe: Serve immediately to maintain the perfect texture of the noodles and enjoy the vibrant, layered flavors at their peak.
Tips for Making Ahead and Meal Prep
Preparing your slow cooker lasagna soup in advance can be a game-changer for busy weeknights. The key to successful meal prep is strategic planning and smart ingredient separation.
When making crock pot lasagna soup ahead of time, follow these essential strategies:
- Prepare the soup base separately from the pasta
- Store components in airtight containers
- Keep noodles uncooked until final serving
For optimal meal prep, consider these cooking techniques:
- Brown meats and prepare broth base in advance
- Refrigerate base for up to 3 days
- Cook fresh pasta when ready to serve
Pro tip: Slightly undercook noodles by 1-2 minutes when prepping to prevent mushiness during reheating.
“Meal prep transforms your lasagna soup from a time-consuming dish to a quick, delicious weeknight meal.”
Slow cooker instructions for make-ahead preparation:
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours
- Alternatively, cook on high for 3-4 hours
- Add pasta during the last 45 minutes of cooking
By following these strategies, you’ll have a delicious, convenient meal ready in minutes. This makes your crock pot lasagna soup a true meal prep champion.
Conclusion
Your lasagna soup journey turns a classic Italian dish into a quick, tasty one-pot meal. It’s packed with flavor and easy to make. With just 25 minutes of cooking, it’s a fast way to enjoy comfort food.
This soup is great because you can change it up to suit your taste. It’s perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests. Each serving has 36 grams of protein and only 437 calories, making it a healthy choice.
Cooking is all about being creative and expressing yourself. Your lasagna soup can be a canvas for new flavors. Try different meats, seasonings, or cheeses to keep it exciting.
We encourage you to start this lasagna soup adventure and share your own versions. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite. It’s quick, delicious, and will bring joy to your meals.
FAQ
What is lasagna soup?
Lasagna soup is a tasty one-pot meal. It has all the flavors of lasagna in a soup. You can make it quickly with meat, pasta, tomato sauce, and cheese.
Can I make lasagna soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Crock pot lasagna soup is great for busy days. Just brown the meats, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Is lasagna soup freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes well. Freeze the soup base without pasta to avoid mushy noodles. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat, then add fresh pasta.
What are the best pasta options for lasagna soup?
Use traditional lasagna noodles or other short pasta. Choose pasta that stays firm in liquid.
How can I make a vegetarian version of lasagna soup?
For a veggie version, use plant-based sausage or tofu. Add mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth and herbs for flavor.
How long does lasagna soup take to prepare?
It takes about 30-45 minutes to make. Stovetop cooking is quicker, while slow cookers take longer but are easier.
Can I make lasagna soup lactose-free?
Yes, it’s easy to make lactose-free. Use lactose-free cheese or plant-based cheese substitutes. You can also use dairy-free ricotta.
What are the best side dishes to serve with lasagna soup?
Serve it with garlic bread, Italian bread, a green salad, or roasted veggies. These sides enhance the soup’s flavors.
Lasagna Soup
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 diced onion
- 4 minced garlic cloves
- 2 14.5 ounce cans diced tomatoes
- 1 8 ounce can tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 4 cups beef or chicken broth
- 6-8 ounces uncooked lasagna noodles broken into pieces
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, sautéing for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, broth, basil, oregano, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add broken lasagna noodles and cook for about 9 minutes or until tender.
- Stir in heavy whipping cream and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for another 2 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley flakes.
- Serve soup hot, topped with a scoop of ricotta mixture, shredded mozzarella, and fresh basil.
Notes
Nutrition
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