This delectable lasagna soup recipe is an easy way to enjoy all the comfort of lasagna with minimal work. It’s saucy, cozy, and family-loved! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction in every bowl.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This lasagna soup comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Flavorful Comfort: Packed with hearty ingredients, each spoonful is bursting with rich flavors that mimic your favorite lasagna.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out proteins or add veggies based on what you have at home.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, everyone will love this comforting dish.
- Freezable: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for a quick meal later.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make cooking your lasagna soup smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for evenly cooking your ingredients while allowing enough space for simmering the soup.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware and helps combine all flavors well.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 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)
– 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)
How to Make Lasagna Soup
Step 1: Cook the Meat
In a large pot over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Once the meat is fully cooked, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, tomato paste, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Stir in the uncooked bowtie pasta. If needed, add water to achieve your desired consistency. Continue simmering until pasta is tender.
Step 6: Add Cheeses
Remove from heat and stir in ricotta cheese until melted through. Top with shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese just before serving.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your comforting lasagna soup!
How to Serve Lasagna Soup
Lasagna soup is a delightful dish that brings all the flavors of traditional lasagna into a cozy bowl. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, and serving it can be both fun and creative.
With Fresh Bread
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a crunchy contrast.
- Crusty Baguette: Slice a baguette and toast it lightly for dipping into the soup.
Topped with Cheese
- Extra Mozzarella: Sprinkle some additional mozzarella cheese on top just before serving for extra gooeyness.
- Parmesan Shavings: Add fresh parmesan shavings for an elegant touch.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Basil: Garnish each bowl with fresh basil for a burst of flavor.
- Parsley Sprinkles: A sprinkle of parsley adds color and freshness.
As a Meal Prep Option
- In Airtight Containers: Portion out leftovers into airtight containers for easy reheating throughout the week.
- With Side Salads: Serve individual bowls alongside side salads for a complete meal.
How to Perfect Lasagna Soup
To make your lasagna soup even better, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance the flavors and textures, making this dish truly unforgettable.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Choosing fresh vegetables and herbs will elevate the taste of your soup.
- Adjust Consistency: If your soup is too thick, add water or broth gradually until you reach your desired texture.
- Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer can deepen the flavors; just ensure not to overcook the pasta.
- Add Extra Spice: For some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
Best Side Dishes for Lasagna Soup
Pairing side dishes with your lasagna soup can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the richness of lasagna soup perfectly.
- Garlic Knots: These soft, buttery knots are ideal for dipping in your soup.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that balances out hearty flavors.
- Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, cured meats, and cheeses offers variety and flavor contrast.
- Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables make a healthy choice that pairs well with the soup’s richness.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms add an elegant touch to your meal.
- Italian Bruschetta: Crispy bruschetta topped with tomatoes and basil enhances the Italian theme beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making lasagna soup can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some to watch out for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Don’t overlook the importance of seasoning your soup. Properly adding salt and pepper will enhance the flavors significantly.
- Using overcooked pasta: Adding pasta that’s already cooked can lead to mushy soup. Remember to use uncooked bowtie pasta for the best results.
- Not adjusting consistency: If your soup is too thick, you might miss out on the right texture. Always adjust with water or broth until you reach your desired consistency.
- Forgetting about toppings: Toppings add a delightful texture and flavor. Don’t skip the ricotta cheese and fresh parsley; they bring the dish together beautifully.
- Ignoring ingredient quality: Low-quality ingredients can diminish your soup’s taste. Choose fresh vegetables and good-quality meats for a delicious outcome.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover lasagna soup in an airtight container.
- It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Lasagna Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Lasagna Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), then heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power until hot, stirring occasionally.
- Stovetop: Heat gently in a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making lasagna soup that many home cooks have.
What is Lasagna Soup?
Lasagna soup is a comforting dish that combines all the classic flavors of lasagna in a savory broth filled with pasta, meat, and cheese.
How do I make Lasagna Soup vegetarian?
To make lasagna soup vegetarian, substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I use different types of pasta in Lasagna Soup?
Yes! While bowtie pasta is recommended, you can use other small pasta shapes like shells or rotini for variety.
How do I store leftover Lasagna Soup?
Store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
This lasagna soup recipe offers a cozy twist on traditional lasagna, providing comfort without all the fuss. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices. Give it a try—your family will love this hearty meal!
Lasagna Soup
Indulge in the warmth and comfort of Lasagna Soup, a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish. This easy-to-make soup packs all the rich flavors of traditional lasagna into a cozy bowl, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With hearty ground beef, flavorful tomatoes, and a creamy cheese topping, every spoonful is a satisfying experience. Plus, it’s versatile—mix in your favorite vegetables or protein for a custom touch. In just 45 minutes, you can serve this delicious meal that everyone will love!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- Olive oil
- Ground beef
- Onion
- Garlic
- Diced tomatoes
- Tomato sauce
- Tomato paste
- Chicken broth
- Bowtie pasta
- Ricotta cheese
- Mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, heat olive oil and brown the ground beef.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until onion is translucent.
- Stir in diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, tomato paste, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add uncooked bowtie pasta; adjust consistency with water if needed and simmer until pasta is tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in ricotta cheese until melted; top with mozzarella and parmesan before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 440
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
