This delectable Lasagna Soup recipe is an easy way to enjoy all the comfort of lasagna with minimal work. It’s saucy, cozy, and family-loved! Perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends, this dish combines the classic flavors of lasagna in a warm, inviting soup format. Enjoy it as a hearty dinner or serve it at gatherings for a comforting twist on an Italian classic.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can get dinner on the table quickly.
- Flavorful Comfort: Each bowl is packed with rich flavors that satisfy your cravings for traditional lasagna.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite pasta or adjust the proteins to suit any taste preference.
- Family-Friendly: This soup is a hit among kids and adults alike, making it great for family meals.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Easily make in bulk and store leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin cooking your Lasagna Soup, gather all necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for simmering the soup evenly without risk of burning.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Helps in stirring ingredients thoroughly to combine flavors nicely.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 1-2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or preferred oil)
– 1 pound Ground Beef
– 1 large Onion (diced)
– 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
– 1 (15-ounce can) Diced Tomatoes (don’t drain)
– 1 (15-ounce can) Tomato Sauce (or tomato puree)
– 1/3 cup Tomato Paste (about half of a 6-ounce can)
– 4 cups Chicken Broth
– 1-2 cups Water (to adjust consistency)
– 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
– 1 teaspoon Sea Salt (or more as needed to adjust flavor)
– Black Pepper (to taste)
– 8 ounces Bowtie Pasta (uncooked) (see footnote)
– 1/2 cup Ricotta Cheese
– 2 ounces Mozzarella Cheese (shredded, about 1/2 cup)
– 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (shaved, shredded, or fresh grated)
– 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped)
How to Make Lasagna Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef into the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil.
Step 4: Add Pasta and Simmer
Once boiling, add uncooked bowtie pasta. Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes or until pasta is tender.
Step 5: Final Touches
Remove from heat. Stir in ricotta cheese until well combined. Serve hot topped with mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley for garnish. Enjoy your delicious Lasagna Soup!
How to Serve Lasagna Soup
Lasagna soup is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.
With Crusty Bread
- Pair your lasagna soup with warm, crusty bread for dipping. A French baguette or garlic bread works beautifully to soak up the rich broth.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish each bowl of soup with fresh parsley or basil. This adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that complements the savory flavors.
With a Side Salad
- Serve your lasagna soup alongside a crisp garden salad. A light vinaigrette dressing will balance the hearty soup perfectly.
Drizzled with Olive Oil
- A drizzle of high-quality olive oil over the top before serving enhances the taste and gives a beautiful glossy finish.
How to Perfect Lasagna Soup
To make your lasagna soup truly outstanding, consider these simple tips that will take it to the next level.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor significantly, making your soup taste homemade and vibrant.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of water or broth. For a lighter version, add more liquid as needed.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix different cheeses like provolone or fontina for added flavor depth in each serving.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and texture. They blend well with the existing ingredients.
Best Side Dishes for Lasagna Soup
Serving side dishes alongside your lasagna soup can create a complete dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
- Caesar Salad: A classic choice with romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing adds crunch and tang.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze complement the Italian flavors of the soup.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil makes for a refreshing appetizer.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushroom caps filled with cheese and herbs provide an elegant touch to your meal.
- Antipasto Platter: A variety of cured meats, olives, and cheeses offers a delightful assortment for guests to enjoy before the main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making lasagna soup is simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture.
- Using too much water: Adding excessive water can dilute the flavors. Always adjust the consistency gradually, adding small amounts until you reach your desired thickness.
- Not browning the meat: Failing to brown the ground beef can lead to a less flavorful soup. Cook it thoroughly in the pot before adding other ingredients for depth of flavor.
- Omitting seasonings: Skipping seasonings like Italian herbs can make your lasagna soup bland. Always taste and adjust seasoning as you cook to enhance flavors.
- Overcooking pasta: Cooking pasta too long in the soup can make it mushy. Add pasta towards the end of cooking and check for doneness frequently.
- Neglecting cheese toppings: Forgetting to add cheese or using low-quality cheese can affect creaminess. Use fresh, high-quality cheeses for the best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store lasagna soup in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Lasagna Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags.
- It can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Lasagna Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in one-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making lasagna soup.
What is Lasagna Soup?
Lasagna soup is a comforting dish that combines all the classic flavors of lasagna into a hearty, brothy soup.
Can I make Lasagna Soup vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute ground beef with lentils or vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.
How do I customize my Lasagna Soup?
You can add different vegetables or change the type of cheese used. Experiment with spices for unique flavors!
Is Lasagna Soup kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Its familiar flavors and fun pasta shapes make it appealing to kids and adults alike.
Final Thoughts
Lasagna soup offers all the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna without much effort. It’s versatile enough to customize based on your preferences, making it perfect for any family meal. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a favorite!
Lasagna Soup
Lasagna Soup is a delightful twist on the traditional lasagna, offering all its comforting flavors in a warm, inviting broth. This easy-to-make recipe combines savory ground beef, rich tomatoes, and tender pasta—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. In just 15 minutes of prep time, you can create a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for an elevated dining experience. With its customizable ingredients, this soup is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes and dietary preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1-2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 pound Ground Beef
- 1 large Onion, diced
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce can) Diced Tomatoes, don't drain
- 1 (15-ounce can) Tomato Sauce
- 1/3 cup Tomato Paste
- 4 cups Chicken Broth
- 1-2 cups Water
- 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Sea Salt
- Black Pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces Bowtie Pasta, uncooked
- 1/2 cup Ricotta Cheese
- 2 ounces Mozzarella Cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese, shaved
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion until translucent (about 5 minutes), then add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, add uncooked bowtie pasta. Reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes or until pasta is tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in ricotta cheese until well combined. Serve hot with mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 1 ½ cups)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
