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 gatherings, this dish brings the rich flavors of traditional lasagna into a simple bowl of soup. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this lasagna soup is sure to satisfy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With minimal chopping and cooking steps, this dish simplifies the lasagna-making process while delivering rich flavors.
- Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of beef, cheese, and hearty broth makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize your lasagna soup by adding vegetables or using different types of pasta according to what you have on hand.
- One-Pot Wonder: This recipe reduces clean-up time since everything cooks in one pot, making dinner less stressful.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it reheats beautifully!
Tools and Preparation
To make a delicious lasagna soup, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will help you prepare efficiently and effectively.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Cutting Board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly while accommodating all ingredients without spilling.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface and helping to break up the ground beef efficiently.
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 Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until they are soft and fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with your spoon while cooking until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, sea salt, black pepper, and water. Bring it to a boil.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Once boiling, add the uncooked bowtie pasta. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
Step 5: Add Cheeses
Remove from heat. Stir in ricotta cheese and mozzarella cheese until melted. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Ladle the hot lasagna soup into bowls. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy!
How to Serve Lasagna Soup
Lasagna soup is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a cozy night in, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
With Crusty Bread
- Pair your lasagna soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping. This adds a wonderful texture and helps soak up the delicious broth.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish the soup with fresh parsley or basil to enhance the flavor. The herbs not only add color but also bring freshness to each bowl.
With a Side Salad
- Serve lasagna soup alongside a light salad. A simple green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup perfectly.
With Cheese Toasts
- Create cheese toasts by broiling slices of bread topped with mozzarella. These are perfect for scooping up the soup and add an extra cheesy touch.
In Individual Bowls
- For a more elegant presentation, serve lasagna soup in individual bowls. This makes it ideal for gatherings and allows guests to enjoy their own portion.
Accompanied by Wine
- Pair your lasagna soup with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot. The wine enhances the flavors and makes for a sophisticated dining experience.
How to Perfect Lasagna Soup
To make your lasagna soup truly memorable, consider these helpful tips.
Use Quality Ingredients: The better your ingredients, the tastier your soup will be. Opt for fresh produce and high-quality meats for the best flavor.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust seasonings like salt and pepper based on your preference, ensuring each bowl is flavorful.
Let It Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer longer if you have time. This enhances the flavors and gives the ingredients time to meld together beautifully.
Experiment with Pasta: While bowtie pasta is great, feel free to try other types like fusilli or even broken lasagna noodles for variety.
Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will continue to develop overnight!
Best Side Dishes for Lasagna Soup
Serving side dishes with lasagna soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options.
Garlic Bread: A classic choice that pairs well with any Italian dish; simply toast bread slices topped with garlic butter.
Caesar Salad: Crunchy romaine lettuce dressed in Caesar dressing adds a nice contrast to the warm soup.
Bruschetta: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella on toasted bread provide a refreshing bite before enjoying your main dish.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrition alongside your meal.
Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms make for an elegant finger food that complements the rich flavors of lasagna soup.
Antipasto Platter: Offer a selection of cured meats, olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables as an appetizer before serving your main course.
Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create an easy-to-eat side dish.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side that pairs nicely with every spoonful of lasagna soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your lasagna soup, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the seasoning – Failing to season your soup properly can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust salt and spices as needed.
- Overcooking the pasta – Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Add it towards the end of cooking to maintain its texture.
- Using low-quality cheese – Cheap cheese may not melt well and can affect flavor. Choose fresh, high-quality cheeses for a delicious finish.
- Neglecting the broth – Using water instead of chicken broth can diminish the soup’s depth of flavor. Always use broth for a richer taste.
- Not letting it rest – Serving immediately might miss out on developing flavors. Letting your lasagna soup sit for a few minutes enhances its taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Lasagna Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Lasagna Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls in short bursts, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat slowly over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making lasagna soup that many home cooks ask.
What is Lasagna Soup?
Lasagna soup is a comforting twist on traditional lasagna, combining all the classic ingredients into a delicious, hearty soup that’s easy to prepare.
How long does Lasagna Soup last?
Lasagna soup lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator and can be frozen for up to 3 months when stored properly.
Can I customize my Lasagna Soup?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or zucchini, swap in different meats, or even try different types of cheese based on your preferences.
Is Lasagna Soup healthy?
This lasagna soup is relatively healthy and packed with protein. You can make it even healthier by using lean ground beef or substituting with turkey or plant-based proteins.
Final Thoughts
This lasagna soup recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners or a comforting meal any night of the week. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients according to your tastes, making it a delightful choice everyone will love.
Lasagna Soup
Lasagna soup is a warm, comforting bowl of goodness that combines all the beloved flavors of traditional lasagna into a hearty, easy-to-make soup. With its rich tomato broth, tender pasta, and gooey cheese, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Prepare it in one pot for minimal cleanup, and enjoy a meal that’s sure to please the whole family. Customizable with your favorite ingredients, this lasagna soup will become a staple in your recipe collection.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
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)
- 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)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic until soft.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, draining excess fat if needed.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and water. Bring to a boil.
- Add uncooked bowtie pasta and reduce heat; simmer for about 10 minutes until pasta is al dente.
- Remove from heat and mix in ricotta and mozzarella cheeses until melted.
- Serve hot with grated Parmesan and chopped parsley on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
