If you have ever wished you could enjoy all the cozy, comforting flavors of a classic Italian meal without spending hours in the kitchen, then you’re going to love this Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe. It’s a warm, hearty bowl packed with rich tomato sauce, savory ground meat, tender pasta, and creamy cheeses that taste just like traditional lasagna but come together faster and simpler. Perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you crave that homemade Italian goodness, this soup hits every note of flavor and texture without the fuss of layering noodles and waiting to bake.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, coming together to create a perfect balance of savory, creamy, and aromatic that makes this soup so addictive. These simple pantry staples and fresh touches deliver big flavor, whether you’re an expert cook or just starting out.
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage: Provides a rich, meaty foundation with plenty of savory goodness.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth as it softens during cooking.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Packs a punch of aromatic flavor that brightens the whole soup.
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes: The robust, tangy base that creates the soup’s signature saucy heart.
- 4 cups beef broth: Builds a flavorful liquid layer for the pasta and meat to cook in.
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (e.g., broken lasagna noodles): Provides that familiar chewiness and comfort you expect from lasagna.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Adds a classic Italian herb note that complements the tomato and meat beautifully.
- 1 tsp dried basil: Brings a sweet, herbal fragrance that lifts the entire dish.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Offers just a gentle kick for those who like a bit of heat without overpowering the flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing every element.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Introduces creamy richness that melts luxuriously into the soup.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: The melty topping that finishes each bowl with gooey, cheesy perfection.
- Fresh basil for garnish: Adds a burst of bright color and fresh, herbaceous aroma.
How to Make Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and adding your ground beef or Italian sausage. Brown the meat thoroughly, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until it’s evenly cooked through and starting to caramelize. This step develops the savory backbone of flavor that will permeate the soup. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic with the browned meat. Continue cooking while stirring regularly until the onion becomes soft, translucent, and sweetly fragrant—about 3 to 5 minutes. This gentle sauté unlocks the base aromatics that elevate the flavor profile of the entire dish.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Herbs
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth along with the dried oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes if you want a little heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and bring the pot to a simmer. This simmering melds the flavors and starts transforming the soup into that lovely thick tomato base reminiscent of classic lasagna sauce.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Now stir in your uncooked pasta right into the simmering soup. Let it cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, until the pasta is just al dente. Cooking the pasta directly in the broth means it soaks up all those amazing flavors rather than being boiled separately.
Step 5: Stir in the Ricotta Cheese
Once the pasta is tender, scoop in the ricotta cheese and gently stir it until well incorporated. This step adds creamy texture and richness, making the soup feel indulgent without heaviness.
Step 6: Serve with Mozzarella and Basil
Ladle the soup into bowls and top generously with shredded mozzarella and fresh basil leaves. The mozzarella melts enticingly atop each serving, adding comforting, gooey goodness while the basil provides a fresh counterpoint to all the warmth and depth.
How to Serve Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond mozzarella and fresh basil, this soup loves a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan, a drizzle of good olive oil, or even a pinch of crushed red pepper for an extra zing. These little finishing touches can turn a simple bowl into a special occasion.
Side Dishes
Crusty garlic bread or warm focaccia are natural partners to soak up every last drop of this hearty soup. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette also pairs beautifully, providing refreshing balance to the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bread bowls for a cozy, dramatic presentation perfect for entertaining. Layer bowls with a spoonful of ricotta and mozzarella between ladles for a built-in cheesy surprise in every bite. Floating a few torn fresh basil leaves on top right before serving brings an inviting pop of color and aroma.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftover lasagna soup to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen with time, making leftovers taste even better.
Freezing
This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Store it in freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion. Keep the cheeses separate if you want to maintain their texture and add them fresh when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking. Add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick. Top with fresh mozzarella and basil again after warming to revive that just-made sensation.
FAQs
Can I use different pasta instead of broken lasagna noodles?
Absolutely! Any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or even broken spaghetti works well. Just adjust the cooking time so the pasta ends up perfectly tender and not mushy.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the meat with your favorite plant-based meat alternative or add hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini to maintain depth of flavor and texture.
What can I do if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
You can substitute ricotta with cream cheese or cottage cheese for similar creaminess. For a dairy-free option, try blended silken tofu with nutritional yeast and seasoning.
How spicy is the soup with red pepper flakes?
Just a hint of heat that warms the palate without dominating the other flavors. You can easily omit or increase the amount based on your personal preference.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can brown the meat and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer all ingredients except the pasta and cheeses to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, adding pasta during the last 30 minutes and cheeses just before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a cozy hug in a bowl that delivers all the hearty flavors of lasagna without the usual work. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this soup makes weeknight dinners feel special and satisfying. Trust me, once you try making this recipe, it will become your go-to comfort food that never fails to impress. So grab your pot, get cozy, and dive into this delicious, easy-to-make soup tonight!
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Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Easy Lasagna Soup combines all the classic flavors of traditional lasagna into a comforting, hearty soup. Featuring ground beef or Italian sausage, crushed tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and tender pasta, it’s topped with creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella, garnished with fresh basil for a satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
Pasta
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (e.g., lasagna noodles, broken)
Seasonings
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheeses and Garnish
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to blend the flavors.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked pasta to the simmering soup. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is al dente.
- Incorporate Ricotta: Stir in the ricotta cheese thoroughly until it’s well combined, creating a creamy texture throughout the soup.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded mozzarella cheese and fresh basil leaves. Serve hot for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and use vegetable broth.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your desired spice level.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
