Lasagna Soup Recipe

Deliciously hearty lasagna soup that brings the comfort of lasagna in a bowl.

Lasagna soup is a delightful twist on traditional lasagna that combines all the flavors and ingredients we love in a rich, hearty soup. This dish is perfect for those chilly nights when you crave something comforting and warm but don't have the time or energy to prepare a full lasagna. With ground meat, lasagna noodles, rich tomato sauce, and a blend of cheeses, this soup satisfies those Italian food cravings with every spoonful. Plus, it's easy to make and can be prepared in just about an hour. Originally popularized in Italian-American communities, this dish has become a favorite in many households due to its simplicity and robust flavors. Unlike traditional lasagna, which requires layering and baking, lasagna soup is made in a single pot, making it a go-to for busy weeknights. Whether you're a novice cook or a seasoned chef, you'll find this recipe both enjoyable and rewarding.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 bay leaf
• 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnishing

Nutrition

Calories: ~350 calories

Instructions

1. Brown Meat: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until brown, breaking it into smaller pieces with a spoon.
2. Add Aromatics: Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
3. Incorporate Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes to allow it to caramelize slightly, which will deepen the flavor.
4. Add Liquids: Pour in chicken broth, marinara sauce, and diced tomatoes. Add the bay leaf and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Cook Noodles: Add broken lasagna noodles to the pot and cook until they are al dente, about 10-12 minutes.
7. Prepare Cheese Mix: While the noodles cook, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and black pepper in a small bowl.
8. Serve: Ladle soup into bowls and add a dollop of the ricotta cheese mixture to each bowl. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

Enjoy your delicious lasagna soup with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. This soup reheats beautifully, making it a great option for leftover lunches. For an extra flavor boost, consider using Italian sausage instead of ground beef and experiment with different cheeses for the topping. Embrace the simplicity and comfort this fusion dish brings and share it with friends and family for any casual gathering.