Craving the rich, cheesy flavors of lasagna but short on time to layer pasta, sauce, and cheese? Enter lasagna soup—a delicious, easy-to-make version of the classic Italian dish in a warm, hearty bowl. This one-pot meal is perfect for any weeknight dinner and offers all the comfort of traditional lasagna with less effort.
What Is Lasagna Soup?
Lasagna soup combines all the classic elements of the famous baked dish—lasagna noodles, ground meat, and tomato sauce—in a rich, savory broth. The soup is filled with tender pasta and melted cheese, making each spoonful a comforting bite. If you love hearty soups like minestrone or tomato basil, this is the dish for you.
Looking for more cozy recipes like this? Check out our collection of recipes for even more inspiration in the kitchen.
For those wanting to experiment with different broths and sauces, learning how to make a flavorful tomato broth can elevate your soup to restaurant-quality status.
Key Ingredients for Lasagna Soup
Here are the essential ingredients to create the perfect lasagna soup:
- Pasta: Lasagna noodles are traditionally used, but any pasta will work.
- Meat: Opt for ground beef, Italian sausage, or even a mix of both. For a lighter version, try using ground turkey.
- Tomato base: Use tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and broth to form a flavorful base.
- Cheese: A combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan gives the soup its rich, cheesy consistency.
- Herbs and seasonings: Think garlic, basil, oregano, and bay leaves to create that signature Italian taste.
- Vegetables (optional): Add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for additional texture and nutrition.
Nutritional Breakdown
A serving of lasagna soup offers a balance of proteins, carbs, and fats. Here’s a general nutritional estimate per serving:
- Calories: 400-500 depending on the ingredients
- Protein: High, especially with the inclusion of meat and cheese
- Carbohydrates: Moderate, mainly from the pasta
- Fat: Rich, due to the combination of cheese and meat
Want to try a lighter option for your next meal? Consider making this easy garlic lemon scallops recipe for a seafood twist that’s equally satisfying.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Lasagna Soup
- Prepare the ingredients: Cook the lasagna noodles separately. Dice onions and garlic, and gather all seasonings.
- Brown the meat: In a large pot, sauté ground beef or sausage with garlic and onions until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Create the soup base: Add in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and broth. Stir and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook the pasta: If you haven’t done so already, boil the noodles separately until al dente and set them aside.
- Combine and simmer: Add the cooked noodles to the soup base and stir in ricotta cheese. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Finish with cheese: Top with mozzarella and parmesan for that extra cheesy goodness.
Customizing Your Lasagna Soup
The beauty of lasagna soup lies in its versatility. Here are a few customization ideas:
- Vegetarian version: Omit the meat and add more vegetables such as zucchini or spinach.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles.
- Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or chili powder for a bit of heat.
For a completely different take, try our old-fashioned baked macaroni and cheese recipe, another classic comfort dish that you’ll love.
Pro Tips for Perfect Lasagna Soup
- Prevent soggy noodles: Cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup right before serving.
- Simmer for depth: Let the soup simmer for at least 20-30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
- Balance acidity: A small pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your lasagna soup with any of these sides:
- Garlic bread: Perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
- Caesar salad: A fresh side that balances out the richness of the soup.
- Extra cheese: Sprinkle more parmesan or mozzarella on top just before serving.
FAQs About Lasagna Soup
Can I freeze lasagna soup?
Yes! However, it’s best to freeze the soup without the noodles to avoid them becoming mushy when reheated.
How can I thicken or thin the soup?
To thicken, you can add more cheese or let it simmer uncovered for longer. To thin, simply add more broth or water.
Can I make lasagna soup in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Absolutely! For a slow cooker, brown the meat first, then cook everything on low for 6 hours, adding the pasta in the last hour. For an Instant Pot, use the sauté function for browning, then pressure cook the soup (minus the pasta) for 10 minutes.
Conclusion
Lasagna soup is the ultimate comfort dish—rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or simply craving something hearty and easy to make, this soup is sure to be a hit. Try it alongside other comforting classics like easy garlic lemon scallops or old-fashioned baked macaroni and cheese for a complete meal!
