Lasagna soup is the ultimate comfort food that brings the warmth of Italy right to your kitchen. Imagine rich layers of pasta, savory meat, and a gooey cheese blend all swimming in a hearty broth that smells like a hug. Each spoonful will transport you to your grandma’s kitchen, where the aroma alone could make you feel like royalty.
Every time I make lasagna soup, it reminds me of my college days when I attempted to impress friends with fancy cooking. Spoiler alert: they were impressed! The perfect occasion for this dish is any chilly evening or when you’re simply craving something cozy. Trust me; the flavor experience will be unforgettable.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This lasagna soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
- Bursting with flavors from fresh herbs and spices, it’s a comforting bowl of joy
- Its visual appeal comes from vibrant colors and textures, making it a feast for the eyes
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences and ingredient swaps!
I remember the first time I served this dish; my friends were fighting over the last bowl!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Choose lean beef for a healthier option without compromising flavor. It’s the heart of your sauce!
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Onion: Use yellow onion for sweetness; sauté until translucent for maximum flavor.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are best; they add an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen.
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Canned Tomatoes: Opt for whole peeled tomatoes; they break down beautifully during cooking while preserving their essence.
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Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings everything together; dried or fresh works well here.
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Pasta: Use short pasta shapes like rotini or penne to mimic lasagna noodles in each scoop.
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Ricotta Cheese: This creamy delight adds richness and makes every bite feel indulgent.
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Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella melts perfectly on top; sprinkle generously for that cheesy goodness.
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Fresh Basil: A handful of fresh basil brightens up the flavors and adds a pop of color.
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Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth as your base; it enhances flavor without overpowering the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes & Spices: Pour in canned tomatoes along with their juices and stir in Italian seasoning. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, letting those lovely flavors meld together.
Introduce the Broth & Pasta: Slowly pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, add your pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions—typically 8-10 minutes.
Create Your Cheesy Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese with some salt and pepper. This creamy layer will add depth to our soup!
Finish with Mozzarella & Basil: Once pasta is cooked, remove from heat and stir in mozzarella cheese until melted. Top each serving with fresh basil before diving in!
That’s it! You’ve created a delicious lasagna soup that’s sure to be loved by everyone at your table. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad for an unforgettable meal!
You Must Know
- This hearty lasagna soup combines all the classic flavors of lasagna in a cozy bowl
- The aroma of simmering tomatoes and herbs will make your kitchen smell divine while it warms your heart
- It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground meat, then add onions and garlic before introducing the broth and tomatoes. Simmer to develop rich flavors, and cook the pasta separately for perfect texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out proteins like turkey or mushrooms, or add spinach for extra nutrition. A sprinkle of fresh basil as a finish will elevate this dish beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover lasagna soup in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve a thicker soup, use less broth or add more pasta
- Season generously; it enhances the flavor immensely
- Adding cheese at the end creates a delightful creamy finish
There’s nothing quite like the first time I made this lasagna soup; my friends devoured every last drop! Their compliments were music to my ears, and now it’s a staple at every gathering.
FAQ
Can I make lasagna soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance for deeper flavors and easy reheating.
Is lasagna soup freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Just freeze it in portions for quick meals later on.
What can I serve with lasagna soup?
Garlic bread or a fresh green salad pairs wonderfully with this comforting dish.
Lasagna Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6 portions 1x
Description
Lasagna soup is a warm and comforting dish that captures the essence of traditional lasagna in a cozy bowl. With layers of rich flavors from savory ground beef, aromatic garlic, and a medley of cheeses, this hearty soup is perfect for chilly evenings or any time you crave a taste of Italy. Quick to prepare and versatile enough to adapt to your dietary needs, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz can whole peeled tomatoes
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups short pasta (e.g., rotini or penne)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat over medium heat and brown the ground beef for about 5-7 minutes. Add chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in canned tomatoes with their juices and Italian seasoning. Let simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Gradually add chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
- In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese with salt and pepper. Once the pasta is cooked, remove from heat and stir in mozzarella cheese until melted.
- Serve hot, topped with fresh basil.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
