If you’re craving a hearty, satisfying meal without the hassle of layering and baking, this lasagna soup recipe is your new favorite dinner idea. It combines the savory flavors of traditional lasagna—ground beef, Italian sausage, tomato sauce, and cheese—in a warm, comforting soup that’s easy to make in just one pot.
The best part? This soup is incredibly customizable for any dietary preference, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides like garlic bread and salads.
For a quick and flavorful twist on traditional lasagna, check out this Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup. And for those curious about choosing the perfect pasta, Serious Eats’ guide to the best pasta shapes for soup provides excellent tips!
What is Lasagna Soup?
Lasagna soup is a one-pot dish that deconstructs the traditional layers of lasagna into a hearty and flavorful soup. Instead of carefully layering noodles, sauce, and cheese, everything is cooked together in a rich broth. It’s a perfect comfort food for busy nights when you want all the flavor without the effort.
The recipe includes:
- Savory ground beef and Italian sausage.
- Rich marinara sauce and aromatic tomato paste.
- Tender broken lasagna noodles cooked to perfection.
- A creamy topping of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients for Lasagna Soup
Soup Base
- ½ pound lean ground beef
- ½ pound ground Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 7 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 9 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
Cheese Mixture
- 10 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Meat
- Heat a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Brown the ground beef and Italian sausage. Season with salt and pepper.
- Drain excess grease and set the meat aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics
- In the same pot, heat olive oil and sauté the chopped onion for 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute.
3. Add Broth and Sauce
- Stir in the tomato paste, marinara sauce, and chicken broth.
- Return the cooked meat to the pot and bring it to a boil.
4. Simmer the Noodles
- Add the broken lasagna noodles and reduce heat. Simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until noodles are tender.
- Add spinach in the final 2 minutes of cooking for a nutrient boost.
5. Prepare the Cheese Mixture
- Combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan in a small bowl.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the cheese mixture.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve with garlic bread.
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian Lasagna Soup: Replace meat with zucchini, mushrooms, and yellow squash.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta instead of lasagna noodles.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.
Looking for another comforting dinner option? Try this creamy and flavorful Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe.
Serving Ideas
Pair your lasagna soup with:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into the broth.
- Caesar Salad: Adds a crisp, fresh contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Light and flavorful sides like zucchini or broccoli.
For a nutritious pairing, read more about the health benefits of spinach. Adding spinach not only enhances flavor but also provides essential vitamins and minerals.
Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips
Make Ahead
- Prepare the soup base and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Add noodles when reheating to keep them fresh and tender.
Freezing Instructions
- Freeze the soup without the noodles for up to 3 months. Add freshly cooked noodles when serving.
For more meal prep inspiration, explore Kale Quinoa Salad Ideas—perfect for a healthy side dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use other pasta shapes?
Yes! Penne or rotini work well as substitutes for lasagna noodles.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
3. Can I freeze the soup with noodles?
It’s better to freeze the soup without noodles, as they can become mushy when reheated.
4. What’s a good ricotta substitute?
Cottage cheese or cream cheese can be used instead of ricotta.
5. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Replace the cheese mixture with dairy-free alternatives like cashew-based ricotta.
Final Thoughts
This lasagna soup recipe is the perfect blend of convenience and comfort. With rich, savory flavors and creamy cheese topping, it’s a dish that warms the soul and satisfies everyone at the table. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight meal or a freezer-friendly option, this recipe has you covered.
For more inspiration, check out this comforting Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup or browse other cozy meals like Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe.
So grab your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a delicious bowl of lasagna soup tonight! 🍲
