Cozy and Easy Lasagna Soup

Name: Cozy and Easy Lasagna Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound ground beef; 1 large onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce; 3 ounces tomato paste (about ¼ cup); 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup water (more as needed); 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste); ½ teaspoon black pepper; 8 ounces bowtie pasta (uncooked); ½ cup ricotta cheese; ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

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There is something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy lasagna. But let’s be honest—traditional lasagna can be time-consuming, requiring layers of noodles, sauce, and cheese, plus a long bake time. That’s why Lasagna Soup is the perfect alternative. It delivers all the rich, savory flavors of classic lasagna in a one-pot, beginner-friendly dish that comes together in under an hour.

I remember the first time I made lasagna from scratch—it was an all-day affair, and my kitchen looked like a war zone afterward. Then I discovered lasagna soup, and it changed everything. With just one pot and a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious, hearty meal without the fuss. Whether you’re new to cooking or just looking for a quick and easy dinner, this one-pot lasagna soup is the perfect solution.

Why This Lasagna Soup Is Special

This recipe is a game-changer because it captures the essence of traditional lasagna but simplifies the process. Here’s why you’ll love it:

No layering, no baking – Everything cooks in one pot, saving you time and cleanup.
Beginner-friendly – Simple techniques like browning meat and simmering make it accessible for all skill levels.
Quick and convenient – Ready in about 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Great for meal prep – Leftovers taste even better the next day, and it reheats beautifully.

Now, let’s dive into the ingredients and how each one plays a crucial role in making this dish both delicious and easy to prepare.

Ingredients and Their Role

Olive oil – Used for sautéing, adding a subtle richness to the soup.

Ground beef – The traditional protein in lasagna, providing a hearty base.
- Alternative: Swap with ground turkey, Italian sausage, or even a plant-based substitute.
Onion and garlic – Build depth of flavor and enhance the aroma.

Canned tomatoes – The heart of the soup; you can use whole, diced, or crushed tomatoes.
Tomato sauce & tomato paste – These thicken the broth and add a concentrated tomato flavor.
Broth (chicken or beef) – Adds depth; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs like oregano and basil for that classic lasagna taste.
Bowtie pasta (or similar) – Holds up well in soup, unlike traditional lasagna noodles that can become mushy.
- Alternative: Penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta.

Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese – The creamy, cheesy topping that mimics the layers of traditional lasagna.
Fresh parsley – For garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until the onion is soft and the meat is browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Add the canned tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, tomato paste, broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Stir in the uncooked pasta. Increase the heat to bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to medium and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup gets too thick, add a little more broth or water.

Step 4: Check the pasta for doneness. It should be tender but not mushy. If needed, add more broth to adjust the consistency of the soup.

Step 5: Remove from heat and ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with a spoonful of ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan, and a little fresh parsley.

Beginner Tips and Notes

Prevent overcooking pasta: If you plan to store leftovers, cook the pasta separately and add it to each bowl when serving. This prevents it from absorbing too much liquid.
Customize the thickness: Add extra broth for a thinner soup or let it simmer longer for a thicker consistency.

Make it vegetarian: Skip the meat and use vegetable broth. You can also add mushrooms or lentils for extra texture.
Boost the flavor: A splash of red wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a richer depth to the broth.

Serving Suggestions

With Bread – Serve alongside warm garlic bread, French bread, or homemade focaccia for dipping.

With a Salad – A crisp Caesar salad or simple arugula salad balances the richness of the soup.
Extra Garnishes – A drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze can elevate the flavors even more.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Freeze: Cool completely and freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water as needed.

Lasagna soup is the ultimate easy, one-pot comfort food, perfect for beginner cooks who want a satisfying meal without the complexity of traditional lasagna. Give this recipe a try, and let me know how it turns out! Do you have a favorite twist on lasagna soup? Share your tips in the comments below.

FAQ About Lasagna Soup

Can I use lasagna noodles instead of bowtie pasta?

Yes, but it’s not recommended. Lasagna noodles tend to break apart and become mushy in soup. If you prefer, you can break them into smaller pieces and cook them separately before adding them to the soup.

How do I prevent my pasta from getting too soft in leftovers?

If you plan to store leftovers, cook the pasta separately and add it to each serving when reheating. This prevents it from absorbing too much liquid and becoming mushy.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the meat and onions in a skillet first, then transfer everything (except the pasta and cheese) to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Add the pasta in the last 30 minutes to prevent overcooking.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for a different flavor. For a vegetarian version, use plant-based crumbles or lentils.

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