Lasagna Soup

If you’re looking for a heartwarming meal that feels like a big hug in a bowl, this Lasagna Soup is just the ticket! It combines all the flavors of traditional lasagna but in a cozy, slurpable form that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether it’s a busy Tuesday or a Sunday family gathering, this dish brings everyone together and leaves them asking for seconds.

What I love most about this Lasagna Soup is how simple it is to whip up. You’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying those precious moments with family and friends. Plus, it’s packed with flavor that will make your taste buds dance!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just one pot needed, clean-up is a breeze!
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting flavors.
• Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prep; just store leftovers for an easy lunch.
• Deliciously versatile: Customize it with your favorite ingredients or toppings!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Lasagna Soup is super simple! You likely have many of these wholesome items on hand already. Let’s check out what you’ll need:

For the Soup Base

• 1-2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or preferred oil)
• 1 pound Ground Beef
• 1 large Onion (diced)
• 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 (15-ounce can) Diced Tomatoes (don’t drain)
• 1 (15-ounce can) Tomato Sauce (or tomato puree)
• 1/3 cup Tomato Paste (about half of a 6-ounce can)
• 4 cups Chicken Broth
• 1-2 cups Water (to adjust consistency)
• 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
• 1 teaspoon Sea Salt (or more as needed to adjust flavor)
• Black Pepper (to taste)

For the Pasta and Toppings

• 8 ounces Bowtie Pasta (uncooked) (see footnote)
• 1/2 cup Ricotta Cheese
• 2 ounces Mozzarella Cheese (shredded, about 1/2 cup)
• 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (shaved, shredded, or fresh grated)
• 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a kick!
• Change the pasta shape: Any small pasta will work beautifully in this soup.

How to Make Lasagna Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté it until it’s soft and translucent—this step brings out their natural sweetness. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. This creates a delicious base for your soup!

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Next, add the ground beef to your pot. Break it apart with your spoon as it cooks until it’s browned all over. This step adds rich flavor to the soup and helps build that comforting taste we love in lasagna.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Now it’s time to add those beautiful canned tomatoes along with tomato sauce and paste. Pour in the chicken broth, followed by water to reach your desired consistency. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let everything simmer together; this is where all those flavors meld into pure deliciousness!

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Once your soup has been bubbling away for about 15 minutes, stir in the uncooked bowtie pasta. Allow it to cook until tender while soaking up all that flavorful broth—about 10 minutes should do it!

Step 5: Finish with Toppings

As you finish up cooking, stir in ricotta cheese for creaminess, then sprinkle on mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses just before serving. Top off each bowl with fresh parsley for that burst of color and freshness!

This Lasagna Soup is not just easy; it’s also incredibly satisfying. Grab your loved ones and dig into this delightful dish—it’s sure to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Lasagna Soup

Making lasagna soup is a breeze, but with these pro tips, you can elevate your dish to a whole new level!

• Use fresh herbs: Adding fresh parsley or basil at the end enhances the flavors and gives your soup a vibrant touch.
• Don’t skip the cheese: The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates layers of creamy goodness that make every spoonful delicious.
• Adjust the broth: Depending on your preference for thickness, you can add more or less water. A thicker soup can be more like a stew, while a thinner one is more broth-like and comforting.
• Experiment with pasta shapes: While bowtie pasta works perfectly, feel free to swap in other types like shells or penne for added texture and fun!
• Make it ahead: Lasagna soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Consider making a larger batch for meal prep!

How to Serve Lasagna Soup

Serving lasagna soup can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present this cozy dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil adds an aromatic element that brightens up the flavors.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, adding red pepper flakes provides a spicy kick that complements the rich sauce.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Nothing pairs better with soup than some crispy garlic bread. It’s perfect for dipping into the sauce!
• Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad can cut through the richness of the soup and provide a refreshing crunch between bites.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds color and provides a healthy balance to your meal.
• Caprese Salad: Layered tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for an elegant side that complements the Italian flavors beautifully.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your lasagna soup will be a hit at any dinner table! Enjoy every warm bowlful filled with love!

Make Ahead and Storage

This lasagna soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade comfort food throughout the week. Here’s how to handle leftovers and ensure they stay fresh!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover lasagna soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
• If you find the soup thickens after cooling, add a splash of water or broth when reheating.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Consider freezing in individual portions for easy meals later on.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
• If using a microwave, heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between for even heating.
• Add a little water or broth if it appears too thick during reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious lasagna soup!

Can I make lasagna soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the lasagna soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later enjoyment.

How do I adjust the flavors in my lasagna soup?

Feel free to taste and adjust seasoning as you go. Adding more Italian seasoning, salt, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate your lasagna soup to your liking!

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese in lasagna soup?

If you want to replace ricotta cheese, consider using cottage cheese or a plant-based cream cheese alternative for a similar texture.

How long does lasagna soup last?

When stored properly, lasagna soup can last up to 4 days in the fridge and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting and hearty lasagna soup as much as I do! It’s a wonderful dish that brings warmth and joy to any dinner table—perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients; this recipe is incredibly versatile. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with love and laughter!