Lasagna Soup Recipe:

When it comes to soul-warming meals perfect for chilly winter evenings, this creamy and cheesy Lasagna Soup takes center stage. Infused with rich Italian flavors, fresh herbs, and hearty ingredients, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. It delivers all the goodness of traditional lasagna but in an easier-to-make, one-pot format. Read on for a step-by-step breakdown of how to create this comfort classic, plus tips, variations, and storage instructions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. All-in-One Meal: Packed with protein, carbs, and vegetables, this soup is a complete meal.
2. Quick and Easy: With just 50 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
3. Customizable: Whether you prefer vegetarian or meat-based options, this recipe is versatile.

To ensure this dish is bursting with flavor, here’s what you’ll need:

For the Soup Base:

• Ground Beef and Sausage: A mix of lean ground beef and Italian sausage provides a savory, meaty flavor.
• Onion and Garlic: Aromatic staples that build the flavor foundation.
• Olive Oil: Adds a subtle richness to sautéed vegetables.
• Tomato Paste and Marinara Sauce: Key to achieving the rich, tomato-based broth.
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for a well-balanced soup.
• Herbs and Spices: A combination of parsley, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes elevates the taste.

For the Noodles:

• Lasagna Noodles: Broken into smaller pieces, these noodles hold up well in the soup.
• Spinach (Optional): Adds a nutritious, vibrant touch.

For the Cheese Topping:

• Ricotta, Mozzarella, and Parmesan: This trio of cheeses creates a creamy and indulgent topping.
• Fresh Basil: A fragrant garnish that enhances the overall flavor.

1. Prepare the Meat

Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Cook the ground beef and sausage until browned, breaking them up into small pieces as they cook. Season with salt and black pepper. Once cooked, drain the grease and set the meat aside.

2. Sauté Aromatics

Using the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

3. Build the Soup Base

Add tomato paste to the pot and stir until it’s evenly mixed. Pour in the marinara sauce, chicken broth, and spices (red pepper flakes, parsley, oregano, and basil). Stir everything together, then return the cooked meat to the pot.

4. Cook the Noodles

Bring the soup to a gentle boil. Add the broken lasagna noodles and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook the noodles, stirring occasionally, until tender. This should take about 10-12 minutes. For added nutrition, stir in fresh spinach during the last 2 minutes of cooking.

5. Make the Cheese Mixture

In a small bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy.

6. Serve and Garnish

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with a generous scoop of the cheese mixture. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a final touch of flavor and color.

• Prevent Overcooked Noodles: If you’re planning to store leftovers, cook the noodles separately and add them to individual servings.
• Make It Ahead: Prepare the soup base in advance and refrigerate. Reheat it and cook the noodles fresh when ready to serve.
• Enhance the Flavor: Use homemade marinara sauce for a fresher, more robust taste.

Refrigerator:

Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Freezer:

Freeze the soup without noodles or cheese for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat. Add fresh-cooked noodles and cheese when serving.

1. Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with diced zucchini, mushrooms, and yellow squash. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
2. Vegan Option: Skip the cheese and use cashew ricotta. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers and carrots for texture.
3. Pasta Swap: Substitute lasagna noodles with rotini, penne, or any short pasta you have on hand.

 Lasagna Soup Recipe:

Duration:

Servings: 7 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb lean ground beef
• 1/2 lb Italian sausage
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 7 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (or 2 tsp dried)
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 9 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves (optional)
• 10 oz ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Directions:

1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef and sausage over medium-high heat. Season with salt and pepper, then drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in the same pot. Add onion and sauté for 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Mix in tomato paste, marinara sauce, chicken broth, and spices. Return the meat to the pot and bring to a boil.
4. Add broken lasagna noodles. Reduce heat and simmer until noodles are tender, about 12 minutes. Stir in spinach if using.
5. In a bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve the soup hot with a dollop of cheese mixture and garnish with fresh basil.

Enjoy this comforting and flavorful Lasagna Soup for a cozy family dinner!