If you’ve ever wished you could enjoy the comforting layers of a classic lasagna without the fuss and time, this Lasagna Soup Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine all those rich flavors from tender noodles, savory meat, tangy tomatoes, and creamy cheese blended into one hearty bowl of pure satisfaction. This soup takes everything you love about lasagna and transforms it into a quick, cozy meal that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for busy weeknights or any time you’re craving that cheesy, comforting Italian taste without the casserole cleanup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to making this Lasagna Soup Recipe truly shine. Each one plays an important role — from the hearty ground meat to the vibrant herbs and melty cheeses — creating the perfect harmony of flavors, textures, and colors in every bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a smooth base for sautéing and a subtle fruity note.
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage: Provides rich, savory depth and that classic lasagna meatiness.
- 1 small onion, diced: Brings natural sweetness and a tender bite once cooked.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the soup with warm, aromatic undertones.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a fragrant, earthy herb flavor essential for Italian dishes.
- ½ teaspoon dried basil: Adds a sweet and slightly peppery herb note.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A gentle kick of heat to elevate the overall flavor.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor and deepens the soup’s color.
- 1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Provides a tangy, luscious tomato base.
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: Creates the satisfying soup foundation without overpowering saltiness.
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces: The perfect pasta shape to slurp with your spoon, cooking right in the broth.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds creamy richness and a delicate tang.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey, cheesy comfort.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty finish that brightens every spoonful.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that balance and enhance the flavors.
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish: Brightens the dish visually and adds a fresh herbal note.
How to Make Lasagna Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat and Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until nicely browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. This step is where much of the soup’s savory foundation develops, so don’t rush it. Once the meat is browned, drain any excess fat if necessary. Then toss in the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes soft and fragrant. Finally, stir in the minced garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes if using, and tomato paste. Let this mixture cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the tomato paste darkens slightly and the herbs release their bouquet.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the can of crushed tomatoes, followed by the broth. Bring everything to a lively boil, letting those robust flavors meld together. This juicy, savory foundation is what transforms into the heart of the soup. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the pot’s bottom — they add incredible flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
Now, add the broken lasagna noodles directly into the pot. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking. You’ll see the noodles soften perfectly, soaking up the rich broth and melding everything together into one cohesive, comforting bowl of goodness.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
While the noodles cook, combine the ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheeses in a small bowl. This creamy blend is what brings that indulgent, cheesy lasagna essence to every spoonful of soup. Set it aside until serving.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Once the noodles have reached tender perfection, taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as desired. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, and generously top each one with a scoop of the cheese mixture. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an added touch of color and freshness. Serve immediately and watch your friends or family delight in every bite of this Lasagna Soup Recipe magic!
How to Serve Lasagna Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley aren’t just pretty — they provide a burst of fresh, green flavor that lifts the hearty, cheesy soup. A sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan on top also adds a little salty crunch that’s hard to resist.
Side Dishes
This soup is a full meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, a crisp green salad with vinaigrette or some garlic bread works beautifully. The crunchy, buttery bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up any remaining soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in mini bread bowls or even hollowed-out bell peppers to add color and texture to your table. You can also offer the cheese mixture on the side so guests can add as much or as little as they like — perfect for picky eaters!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Lasagna Soup Recipe leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors intensify overnight, making it a delicious next-day meal with even more depth.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup, but the noodles may become softer upon thawing. To minimize this, freeze the soup without the noodles and add fresh cooked noodles when reheating. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge and add extra broth or water if it thickens too much. Stir in fresh noodles if you froze the soup noodle-free.
FAQs
Can I make this Lasagna Soup recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the ground meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken. You can also add chopped mushrooms or extra veggies for more texture and flavor.
What type of noodles work best in this soup?
Classic lasagna noodles broken into pieces are perfect for the authentic feel. If you need gluten-free options, look for gluten-free lasagna noodles or even substitute broken spaghetti or penne.
How spicy is the soup with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle heat that enhances the flavors without overwhelming the dish. You can always leave them out if you prefer a milder soup.
Can I prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time?
Yes, the cheese topping can be mixed up to a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Give it a quick stir before serving to keep it smooth and creamy.
Is this soup suitable for freezing and meal prepping?
It is! Just remember to keep the noodles separate from the soup when freezing to avoid sogginess. Freeze and store the cheese mixture separately as well for best results.
Final Thoughts
This Lasagna Soup Recipe hits all the right notes for anyone craving the comfort of Italian flavors without the time commitment of traditional baked lasagna. It’s hearty, cheesy, and full of love in every spoonful. Whether it’s a chilly weeknight supper or a casual gathering with friends, this soup is sure to become a favorite you turn to again and again. Give it a try and let yourself enjoy all the cozy warmth and deliciousness this recipe brings to your table!
Print
Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A comforting and hearty Italian-American Lasagna Soup that captures all the flavors of classic lasagna in a cozy, one-pot soup. Rich ground beef, aromatic herbs, tender broken lasagna noodles, and a delicious blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses come together perfectly in a flavorful tomato broth. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a family gathering.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Tomato Base
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
Pasta
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed to avoid a greasy soup.
- Sauté Aromatics and Add Herbs: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and tomato paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, allowing the tomato paste to deepen in flavor.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil to combine flavors and prepare for simmering.
- Cook Lasagna Noodles: Add the broken lasagna noodles to the boiling broth and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender but not mushy.
- Season the Soup: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your preference.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, combine ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheeses. Mix well until evenly blended.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls and top each with a generous scoop of the cheese mixture. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve immediately for a comforting and cheesy finish.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- You can substitute gluten-free lasagna noodles to accommodate gluten intolerance.
- Red pepper flakes add a mild heat but can be omitted if you prefer a milder soup.
- Ensure to break the noodles into pieces before cooking so they cook evenly in the soup.
- This soup is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently and add additional broth if it thickens too much.
