Cozy Lasagna Soup

Name: Cozy Lasagna Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium white onion, diced; 3–4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 pound lean ground beef (93% lean); 1½ tablespoons Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 4 cups beef broth; 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (such as Rao’s); 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice; ¼ cup water; 10 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into pieces; 1½ cups cottage cheese; ½ cup shaved parmesan cheese; ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; Optional toppings: extra cottage or ricotta cheese, fresh basil

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There’s something about lasagna that makes it universally loved—maybe it’s the layers of cheesy goodness or the rich tomato sauce that clings to every bite of pasta. But if I’m being honest, making a full lasagna from scratch always felt like a weekend project. That changed the day I stumbled upon lasagna soup during a particularly hectic week. The idea of getting all those classic flavors in one pot without the hassle? I was sold. And after making it, I knew this had to be my go-to for those nights when I wanted comfort food without the marathon.

This cozy lasagna soup is especially great for beginner cooks. Why? It’s simple, satisfying, and requires only one big pot—no fancy equipment or multi-step layering required. Plus, it’s full of hearty ingredients that provide both flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re new to the kitchen or just want a no-fuss dinner, this easy sheet pan dinner alternative checks all the boxes for quick and healthy meals.

Why This Recipe is Special

Lasagna soup takes everything we love about traditional lasagna—the meaty sauce, the comforting noodles, the creamy cheese—and turns it into a single, soul-warming bowl of soup. It’s a genius twist on the classic Italian favorite that skips the oven but keeps the flavor. And unlike traditional lasagna, which often requires baking and multiple pans, this version uses one pot and comes together in about 40 minutes.

Perfect for meal prep, casual dinner parties, or just curling up on the couch with a big bowl in hand, it’s also incredibly adaptable. The best part? It welcomes substitutions, making it ideal for picky eaters or whatever you have left in your fridge.

Ingredients and Preparation

Ground Beef – Adds richness and protein. Choose lean (like 93%) to keep the soup light but flavorful. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

Onion and Garlic – These aromatic base ingredients bring depth and savory flavor. Don’t skip them—they’re foundational to almost every great soup.

Beef Broth – Builds a deep, meaty base. Chicken broth can be used for a lighter taste, or use veggie broth if going meatless.

Tomato Sauce and Diced Tomatoes – These create the tangy, tomato-rich flavor essential to lasagna. Marinara sauce adds herbs and sweetness.

Lasagna Noodles – Break them into pieces for that true lasagna texture. You can swap with any pasta you have—penne, rotini, even broken spaghetti.

Cottage Cheese – Mimics the creamy ricotta in classic lasagna but with a higher protein punch. Ricotta or even a spoon of Greek yogurt can work as substitutes.

Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheese – These cheeses melt into the soup, creating a silky, gooey texture. Fresh mozzarella gives a smoother finish, while pre-shredded is more convenient.

Spinach – Stirred in at the end for a pop of color and added nutrition. Kale, arugula, or finely chopped zucchini are great alternatives.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1
Heat a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add olive oil and sauté diced onions and garlic until soft and fragrant—about 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 2
Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, stirring to break it into small crumbles. This should take around 5 to 6 minutes.

Step 3
Mix in Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Stir well so the meat gets coated with flavor and the tomato paste starts to caramelize.

Step 4
Pour in the beef broth, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and a bit of water. Break your lasagna noodles into pieces and drop them into the pot, spreading them out to avoid clumping. Bring everything to a boil.

Step 5
Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to make sure the noodles don’t stick together. They should be tender but not mushy.

Step 6
Once the noodles are cooked, stir in cottage cheese, mozzarella, and parmesan until they melt into the soup. Add chopped spinach and let it wilt for 2–3 minutes before serving.

Beginner Tips and Notes

Avoid Sticky Noodles: Add noodles one at a time into different parts of the pot to prevent clumping. Stir occasionally during simmering.
Cheese Swaps: If you don’t have cottage cheese, use ricotta or even a spoonful of cream cheese for creaminess.
Flavor Boost: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat. If your broth feels bland, a dash of balsamic vinegar or sugar can balance the acidity.

Prep Ahead: Chop onions and garlic in advance and store in the fridge. Pre-measure your spices to save time during cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your lasagna soup with a slice of garlic bread, cheesy breadsticks, or a light tossed salad. For extra indulgence, top with a dollop of ricotta or a sprinkle of fresh basil. If you enjoy wine, a light red like Chianti or a crisp rosé pairs beautifully.

Storage Tips:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. The soup may thicken overnight—just add a splash of broth or water when reheating. Glass containers are better than plastic to avoid tomato stains.

Conclusion

Whether you’re trying to build confidence in the kitchen or just need a cozy dinner that doesn’t require much effort, this lasagna soup is a must-try. It’s rich, flavorful, and forgiving—perfect for first-time cooks and seasoned home chefs alike. If you give it a go, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Drop a comment, share your twists, or just say hi. Your next favorite meal might just start with a soup pot and a little curiosity.

FAQ About Lasagna Soup

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of lasagna noodles?

Yes, absolutely. While traditional lasagna noodles provide that classic texture, any pasta will work in a pinch—try rotini, penne, or even broken spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type.

Can I make lasagna soup vegetarian?

Yes, to make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and substitute with a plant-based alternative like crumbled tempeh, lentils, or mushrooms. Also, swap the beef broth for vegetable broth.

What’s the difference between ricotta and cottage cheese in this soup?

Ricotta is creamier and has a milder flavor, while cottage cheese adds a tangy note and more protein. Cottage cheese melts into the soup for a silkier texture, but either one works beautifully.

How do I prevent my noodles from clumping together in the soup?

Add the broken lasagna noodles to different parts of the pot one at a time and stir frequently while they cook. This helps keep them separated and ensures even cooking.

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