Lasagna Soup is a heartwarming twist on the classic lasagna, capturing all the rich and savory flavors of traditional Italian cuisine in one cozy bowl. Each spoonful combines tender lasagna noodles with a tomato-based broth infused with garlic, basil, and oregano, delivering a deeply satisfying meal. The creamy blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses melts beautifully into the soup, adding a luscious texture and cheesy delight that’s irresistible.
Ideal for chilly nights or when you’re craving comfort food, Lasagna Soup is simple to make in just one pot and perfect for sharing with family or friends. It’s a delightful dish that brings the beloved flavors of lasagna to the table in a faster, easier format, without sacrificing any of the warmth and coziness. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad, and you have a meal that’s sure to please everyone around the table.
Full Recipe:
- Ground beef: 1 lb
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Crushed tomatoes: 1 (28 oz) can
- Tomato sauce: 1 (15 oz) can
- Beef broth: 4 cups
- Lasagna noodles: 1 (12 oz) package, broken into pieces
- Dried basil: 1 tablespoon
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Ricotta cheese: 1 cup
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 cup
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/4 cup
- Fresh basil: Optional, for garnish
Directions:
- In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Add broken lasagna noodles, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until noodles are tender.
- Stir in ricotta cheese and let it melt into the soup. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve hot.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Lasagna Soup: A New Take on a Classic Italian Favorite
Introduction to Lasagna Soup
- Origins and Inspiration: Lasagna Soup takes inspiration from traditional Italian lasagna, simplifying the process while retaining the rich flavors associated with the beloved pasta dish. This soup incorporates the layers of taste found in classic lasagna – from savory meat and pasta to tangy tomatoes and creamy cheese.
- Perfect for Comfort and Convenience: Unlike its oven-baked counterpart, Lasagna Soup is a quicker, one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare.
Key Flavor Elements
- Robust Tomato Base: The soup’s base is a combination of crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth, providing a savory and slightly tangy foundation that mimics lasagna’s rich tomato sauce.
- Cheesy Goodness: Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan add creamy, salty, and nutty flavors. The cheese melts beautifully into the soup, giving each spoonful a decadent taste and texture.
- Herbal and Aromatic Depth: Dried basil, oregano, and fresh garlic elevate the flavor, imparting that authentic Italian aroma and depth. Optional fresh basil as garnish adds a pop of brightness and freshness to each serving.
- Pasta That Absorbs Flavor: Broken lasagna noodles cook directly in the soup, soaking up the flavors as they simmer, creating a dish that tastes like a deconstructed lasagna.
Cooking Tips and Techniques
- Choose the Right Ground Meat: While traditional lasagna often uses ground beef, you can substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. Combining ground beef and Italian sausage adds complexity and richness.
- Building Flavor from the Base: Start by browning the meat and onions, as this step adds depth and caramelized flavors. Garlic is added after browning to prevent it from burning and becoming bitter.
- Simmering and Layering Flavors: Allow the tomato-based broth to simmer with the noodles, herbs, and spices, letting flavors blend and intensify.
- Add Cheese at the End: Stir the cheeses in once the soup is almost done, allowing them to melt smoothly into the broth, creating a creamy texture that enhances every spoonful.
Customization Options
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute vegetable broth for beef broth, and use hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach for added texture and flavor. Opt for meatless sausage or plant-based ground meat if desired.
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or chopped jalapeños to give the soup a kick.
- Alternative Cheeses: While the traditional blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan is used, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Fontina or Gouda for a unique taste.
- Pasta Variety: Substitute the broken lasagna noodles with other short pasta varieties, such as rotini, farfalle, or fusilli, which will also absorb the flavors well.
Health Benefits of Lasagna Soup
- Nutritious Ingredients: Ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Tomatoes provide Vitamin C and lycopene, beneficial for heart health.
- Balanced Meal: The combination of protein from the meat, fiber from the pasta, and calcium from the cheese offers a balanced and hearty meal.
- Adaptable to Dietary Needs: By choosing alternative ingredients, Lasagna Soup can be easily adapted to be gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegetarian, making it versatile for different dietary preferences.
Serving Suggestions
- Toppings and Garnishes: Add a sprinkle of fresh basil, grated Parmesan, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on each bowl for extra flavor and visual appeal.
- Side Dishes: Serve with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or a slice of crusty Italian bread for dipping.
- Perfect Beverage Pairings: Complement with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, or a sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing pairing.
Conclusion
Lasagna Soup is an inviting fusion of traditional Italian flavors and modern simplicity, offering a delightful, one-pot alternative to classic lasagna. With its rich tomato base, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta, it has all the comfort of lasagna but with less preparation time. This dish’s flexibility allows for endless variations, making it a perfect fit for family dinners, cozy gatherings, or quick weeknight meals. Whether enjoyed on a chilly night or shared as a hearty dinner, Lasagna Soup brings warmth, flavor, and joy to the table.