Lasagna Soup Recipe

If you have ever wished that cozy, hearty lasagna could be enjoyed in a bowl with less fuss and more speed, this Lasagna Soup recipe is going to change your comfort food game completely. Imagine all the classic flavors of layered lasagna—rich tomato sauce, tender pasta, creamy ricotta, and gooey cheese—swirled together in a luscious, warming soup that comes together in no time. This dish is not only soul-satisfying but also wonderfully adaptable for quick weeknight dinners or casual family gatherings. Once you try this Lasagna Soup, your idea of comfort food might just get a delicious upgrade.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to making this Lasagna Soup sing. Each component plays a vital role: the savory meat builds the base, aromatic onion and garlic add depth, and the blend of cheeses brings that melt-in-your-mouth finish everyone loves.

• 1 lb ground beef or spicy Italian sausage: Choose sausage for extra kick or beef for a milder flavor—a perfect protein foundation.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and complexity once sautéed.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings warmth and that unmistakable Italian charm.
• 28 oz canned fire-roasted diced tomatoes: Gives a smoky depth and chunky texture to the soup.
• 15 oz tomato sauce (no added sugar): Smooth tomato richness to balance the acidity.
• 4 cups water or broth: Broth adds extra flavor while water keeps it lighter and cleaner tasting.
• 8 oz broken lasagna noodles or small pasta shapes: Traditional pasta pieces provide comforting familiarity and soak up the flavorful broth.
• 15 oz ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it creates the luscious “cheesy layer” effect when stirred into the soup.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top, offering that signature stretchy texture.
• 1 tsp dried basil: Herbaceous notes that work perfectly with tomatoes and cheese.
• 1 tsp dried oregano: Adds an earthy, slightly peppery background flavor.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Finishes the soup with nutty sharpness and saltiness.

How to Make Lasagna Soup

Step 1: Brown the Meat and Sauté Aromatics

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add your ground beef or spicy Italian sausage and cook until well browned. This step is crucial because it develops rich, savory flavors that form the backbone of your soup. Once the meat has started to brown, toss in the finely chopped onions and minced garlic and sauté until they become fragrant and translucent. This will infuse the broth with a wonderful aroma reminiscent of classic Italian cooking.

Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Sauce

Next, stir in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes along with the tomato sauce. Fire-roasted tomatoes bring a beautiful smoky depth, elevating the soup beyond an ordinary tomato base. Let this mixture simmer gently for a few minutes. This slow melding of flavors ensures every spoonful bursts with a vibrant, comforting tomato essence.

Step 3: Pour in Liquid and Pasta

Now it’s time to add your water or broth and the broken lasagna noodles. Using broth will enrich the taste, but water keeps it simple and lets the tomato and meat shine. Bring everything up to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook the pasta just until it’s al dente, tender yet firm to the bite—perfect for soaking up all those delicious flavors without becoming mushy.

Step 4: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

While the pasta cooks, whisk the ricotta cheese together with dried basil and oregano in a small bowl. This mixture will add the creamy, herb-infused layer reminiscent of the cheese filling in traditional lasagna. When the soup is ready to serve, spoon generous dollops of this ricotta blend into each bowl—watch it melt slowly into the warm broth for a luscious, silky experience.

Step 5: Add Mozzarella and Parmesan Toppings

Finally, crown each bowl of Lasagna Soup with shredded mozzarella, letting it melt into gooey perfection right before serving. Sprinkle a little grated Parmesan cheese on top to complete the flavor profile with its nutty, salty touch. These cheeses elevate the soup from comforting to truly indulgent, capturing the spirit of a classic lasagna in a way that’s quick, easy, and endlessly delicious.

How to Serve Lasagna Soup

Garnishes

Add fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley on top for a bright, fresh accent that cuts through the richness. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes can also boost the flavor and presentation, making your Lasagna Soup feel just a bit more special.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty garlic bread or warm, buttery rolls to soak up every last drop. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette acts as a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty soup, balancing the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for an edible container that adds an extra layer of carb delight. Alternatively, layering dollops of ricotta and sprinkling cheeses in alternating layers in a glass or clear bowl can create a visually stunning lasagna-inspired presentation that wows guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover Lasagna Soup to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making for a convenient ready-to-eat meal when you’re short on time.

Freezing

This soup can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze it before adding the fresh cheeses, as they can change texture when thawed. Store the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and then add fresh ricotta and mozzarella at serving time.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to help the flavors meld once more. Add fresh dollops of ricotta and sprinkle mozzarella just before serving for that perfect creamy finish each time.

FAQs

Can I make Lasagna Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the meat and replace the broth with vegetable broth. You can also add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to boost the texture and flavor while keeping it hearty.

What’s the best pasta to use in Lasagna Soup?

Broken lasagna noodles are ideal to replicate the original lasagna texture, but small pasta shapes such as rotini or penne work well too. Just choose a pasta that holds up well in soup and cooks relatively quickly.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes! Substitute fresh basil and oregano by using three times the amount of dried. Add fresh herbs towards the end of cooking to preserve their vibrant flavor.

Is Lasagna Soup spicy?

The spice level depends on your choice of meat—using spicy Italian sausage adds a pleasant kick, but you can always keep it mild with regular ground beef. You can also adjust heat by adding red pepper flakes to taste.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook the pasta just until al dente and serve immediately to enjoy the best texture. If preparing ahead, slightly undercook the pasta and finish cooking it when reheating the soup.

Final Thoughts

This Lasagna Soup is a joyful celebration of one of Italy’s most beloved dishes, reinvented in a bowl to bring warmth and comfort with less fuss and more flavor. Whether you’re feeding a family or craving cozy leftovers, this recipe is a deliciously simple way to satisfy those lasagna cravings any day of the week. Give it a try and let it become one of your go-to comfort meals that feels like a hug in every bite.

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