If you’re craving the comforting flavors of lasagna but want something quicker and cozier, this Hearty Turkey Lasagna Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine all the classic tastes of a traditional lasagna — savory ground turkey, aromatic herbs, tangy tomatoes, and creamy cheeses — brought together into a warm, satisfying soup that’s perfect for any night of the week. This dish hits the spot with every spoonful, making it a go-to for an easy yet indulgent meal that your family and friends will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this soup lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from adding rich, hearty flavor to offering the right balance of texture and color. Getting these basics right ensures your Hearty Turkey Lasagna Soup Recipe turns out just perfect every time.
- 2 lb ground turkey: Provides lean protein with a mild flavor that soaks up the herbs and spices beautifully.
- 1.5 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the turkey and vegetables evenly.
- 1 large onion (finely diced into 1/4-inch pieces): Brings sweetness and depth to the base of the soup.
- 5 garlic cloves (minced): Adds a fragrant punch that’s essential in any Italian-inspired dish.
- 3.5 tbsp Italian seasoning: A blend that infuses the soup with classic Mediterranean herbs.
- 2.5 tbsp dried basil: Enhances the soup’s herbal aroma and flavor.
- 2.5 tsp salt: Balances and elevates all the other ingredients’ tastes.
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes: Offers just the right hint of heat without overpowering the dish.
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste): Adds subtle spice and complexity.
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes: Provides the tomato base that’s rich and slightly sweet.
- 10 oz Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies): Gives a mild kick and a bright pop of flavor.
- 2 cups water: Helps moderate the soup’s consistency, keeping it perfectly brothy.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Adds deep savory notes and layers of umami.
- 8 oz lasagna noodles (broken into 1-inch pieces): Introduces the comforting pasta element that makes the soup feel like lasagna in a bowl.
- 4 oz ricotta cheese: Creams the soup with its mellow, velvety texture mixed in.
- Ricotta cheese (additional dollops for topping): Adds an irresistible creamy finish at serving time.
- Fresh basil (chopped): Brings a fresh, herbal brightness to the soup and garnish.
- Crushed red pepper (for garnish): Sprinkles in some visual contrast and extra heat if desired.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, nutty richness as a final flourish.
How to Make Hearty Turkey Lasagna Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Turkey and Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it up into fine crumbles as it cooks. Then, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, stirring frequently until the onions soften and become translucent. This step builds the flavorful foundation for your soup.
Step 2: Add Herbs and Spices
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, dried basil, salt, red pepper flakes, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything together and let the spices toast for a minute or two to release their oils and deepen the flavors. Trust me, this aromatic bouquet is what makes this soup so comforting and memorable.
Step 3: Pour in Tomatoes, Broth, and Water
Once your spices are fragrant, add the crushed tomatoes, Rotel (including the liquid), chicken broth, and water. Give everything a good stir to combine and bring your pot to a simmer. This tomato-rich liquid will become the soul of your lasagna soup, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering scent.
Step 4: Add Broken Lasagna Noodles and Simmer
Break the lasagna noodles into roughly 1-inch pieces and add them into the simmering pot. Let the soup cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but not mushy. This step transforms the dish into true lasagna form, with soft pasta absorbing the chunky broth’s essence.
Step 5: Stir in Ricotta Cheese for Creaminess
Remove the pot from the heat and gently stir in the ricotta cheese. This adds a luscious creaminess to the soup without overpowering it, perfectly mimicking the creamy layers of traditional lasagna.
How to Serve Hearty Turkey Lasagna Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Serving your soup with fresh basil, crushed red pepper flakes, and a hearty sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese takes it to the next level. A dollop of ricotta cheese on top also adds that signature creamy finish, turning each bowl into a luxurious comfort meal.
Side Dishes
This soup shines on its own but is also wonderful paired with crusty garlic bread or a crisp green salad. The bread is perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth, while a fresh salad offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Hearty Turkey Lasagna Soup Recipe in small serving cups as an appetizer at a dinner party. Layer some soup in a clear glass with basil leaves and a swirl of ricotta on top for a beautiful visual effect. It’s sure to impress and spark conversation!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover soup in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making the soup even tastier the next day. Just be sure to store the soup and garnishes separately to maintain freshness.
Freezing
This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove to keep the noodles from getting too soft.
Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Add fresh ricotta and garnish just before serving to recreate that fresh-from-the-pot feel.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground beef for turkey in this soup?
Absolutely! Ground beef or even Italian sausage can be swapped in if you prefer a richer taste. Just keep in mind these options will add more fat and might change the texture slightly.
What can I use if I don’t have Rotel tomatoes?
If you don’t have Rotel on hand, simply use diced tomatoes with a bit of finely chopped green chili or jalapeño to replicate that spicy kick. It adds a nice layer of flavor and a subtle heat.
Is it better to use fresh or dried herbs in this recipe?
Both work well, but dried herbs are recommended here because they infuse the soup with their flavor over the simmering time. You can always finish with fresh basil for an extra burst of freshness when serving.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Sure! Swap out the ground turkey for your favorite plant-based protein or simply omit the meat and add extra vegetables and beans to keep it hearty.
How thick should the soup be?
The soup should be brothy but hearty, with tender pasta and a bit of creaminess from the ricotta. If it gets too thick, stir in a little extra broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Hearty Turkey Lasagna Soup Recipe enough for anyone looking to enjoy all the joy of lasagna without the fuss. It’s the perfect comfort food for chilly nights, busy weeknights, or whenever you want a hug in a bowl. Give it a try and watch it become one of your favorite go-to recipes too!
Print
Hearty Turkey Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Hearty Turkey Lasagna Soup combines the beloved flavors of traditional lasagna in a comforting, easy-to-make soup form. Featuring lean ground turkey, rich ricotta, and a blend of Italian herbs simmered with crushed tomatoes and lasagna noodles, it’s a satisfying meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or cozy family gathering.
Ingredients
Meat and Oils
- 2 lb ground turkey
- 1.5 tbsp olive oil
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 large onion, finely diced into 1/4-inch pieces
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
Herbs and Spices
- 3.5 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 2.5 tbsp dried basil
- 2.5 tsp salt
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Tomatoes and Liquids
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 10 oz Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies)
- 2 cups water
- 4 cups chicken broth
Pasta and Cheese
- 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into 1-inch pieces
- 4 oz ricotta cheese
- Ricotta cheese, dolloped on top for extra creaminess
- Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
- Crushed red pepper, for garnish
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook Turkey: Add ground turkey to the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-7 minutes.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in Italian seasoning, dried basil, salt, red pepper flakes, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to coat the turkey and aromatics with the herbs and spices.
- Combine Tomatoes and Liquids: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, Rotel, water, and chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer Soup: Allow the soup to simmer gently for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Add Pasta: Add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Cook until the noodles are tender, approximately 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Incorporate Ricotta Cheese: Stir in 4 oz of ricotta cheese into the soup until creamy and well combined.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with a dollop of ricotta cheese, freshly chopped basil, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Breaking the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces allows them to cook evenly and mimic the texture of traditional lasagna layers in soup form.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes and crushed red pepper garnish depending on your heat preference.
- This soup reheats well and the flavors develop even more after a day.
- For a lower sodium option, use low-sodium chicken broth and reduce added salt.
- The ricotta cheese adds creamy texture; you can substitute with cottage cheese for a lighter alternative.
