Easy Lasagna Soup

Lasagna has always been one of my favorite comfort foods. The layers of pasta, rich tomato sauce, and creamy cheese are undeniably satisfying. But let’s be honest—traditional lasagna can take a lot of time and effort to prepare. That’s why I love this easy lasagna soup recipe. It gives you all the cozy, cheesy goodness of lasagna without the hassle.

This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal prep and just under an hour to make. Plus, it’s an excellent choice for beginner cooks since it’s hard to mess up. With simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you’ll have a delicious, hearty soup that tastes just like lasagna but with much less effort.

Why This Recipe is Special

• Beginner-friendly: No need for fancy techniques or layering—just a simple soup that captures the essence of lasagna.
• One-pot convenience: Fewer dishes to clean, which makes cooking and clean-up a breeze.
• Customizable: Swap out ingredients based on dietary preferences or what’s in your pantry.
• Great for leftovers: The flavors get even better the next day, making this a perfect make-ahead meal.

Ingredients and Preparation

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in flavor, texture, and nutrition. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• Olive oil – Adds a smooth, rich base for cooking the meat and aromatics.
• Ground beef – The star protein of the dish, adding depth and a meaty richness. You can swap this with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option.
• Onion & garlic – These aromatics build a flavorful base that enhances the entire dish.
• Crushed tomatoes – Creates a robust, slightly tangy broth that mimics the classic lasagna sauce. You can substitute tomato puree or a mix of diced tomatoes.
• Herbs & spices (bay leaf, basil, parsley, oregano, black pepper, red pepper flakes) – A combination of dried herbs gives the soup its signature Italian taste. You can use fresh herbs if available.
• Beef broth & water – Provides a rich, savory base. Vegetable or chicken broth works well too.
• Pasta (reginetti, broken lasagna noodles, or mafalda) – Gives the soup its lasagna-like feel. You can also use farfalle or any short pasta.
• Ricotta & parmesan cheese – Melts into the soup for a creamy, cheesy finish. If you’re dairy-free, you can use plant-based cheese or skip it altogether.

Substitutions & Variations

• Make it vegetarian – Replace the beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles.
• Go gluten-free – Use gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles.
• Add veggies – Mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers can add extra nutrients and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once warm, add ground beef and cook for about 10 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned.

Step 2: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.

Step 3: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and water. Stir in the bay leaf, basil, parsley, oregano, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring the soup to a boil.

Step 4: Once boiling, add the pasta and reduce the heat to medium. Cook uncovered for half of the pasta’s recommended cooking time (it will continue cooking in the broth after you remove it from the heat). Stir occasionally.

Step 5: Turn off the heat and let the soup sit for 5 minutes to allow the pasta to finish cooking. Remove the bay leaf.

Step 6: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a dollop of ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of parmesan. Enjoy warm!

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Undercook the pasta: The pasta will continue absorbing broth after the heat is off, so it’s best to cook it for slightly less time than the package suggests.
• Avoid mushy pasta: If you’re planning to store leftovers, cook the pasta separately and add it when serving.
• Balance the broth: If the soup thickens too much, just add a little extra broth or water.
• Customize the spice level: Add more red pepper flakes if you like a little heat, or omit them if you prefer a milder taste.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this lasagna soup with:

• Crusty bread or garlic bread – Perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
• A fresh salad – Try a strawberry goat cheese salad or a classic Caesar salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Extra cheese toppings – Mozzarella or even a sprinkle of shredded cheddar can add more cheesiness.

Storing and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Let it cool before freezing, and leave out the pasta to avoid mushiness.
• Reheating: Warm in a pot over medium heat or microwave for 1-2 minutes. Add extra broth if needed.

Conclusion

If you love lasagna but don’t have the time to make it from scratch, this lasagna soup is a game-changer. It’s quick, easy, and packed with comforting flavors that make it perfect for any night of the week.

I’d love to hear how your lasagna soup turned out! Did you try any customizations? Let me know in the comments below.

FAQ About Lasagna Soup

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