As the sun sets and the chill of the evening creeps in, there’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of a bowl of Simple Lasagna Soup to soothe the day’s tensions. Picture this: the enticing aroma of savory Italian sausage mingling with ground beef, creating a symphony of flavors that invite you in for a comforting experience. I stumbled upon this gem during a particularly hectic week, desperate for a meal that could evoke the heartiness of a classic lasagna without the fuss.
With tender pieces of lasagna noodles swirled into a rich, cheesy broth and a sprinkling of fresh spinach, this soup captures all the beloved elements of traditional lasagna—all in under 30 minutes! Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just indulging in a cozy night at home, this cozy weeknight dinner promises to be a crowd pleaser. Let’s dive into the recipe and transform your kitchen into a haven of Italian comfort!
Why Will You Love Simple Lasagna Soup?
Comforting Warmth: This Simple Lasagna Soup delivers the cozy feeling of traditional lasagna, perfect for chilly evenings.
Quick and Easy: Whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner without compromising on taste.
Flavorful Fusion: The rich blend of Italian sausage and ground beef makes for a savory delight that satisfies cravings.
Cheesy Goodness: Topped with a heavenly medley of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, every spoonful is bursting with cheesy goodness.
Versatile Options: Customize with mild or spicy sausage, or switch up the greens; it’s a recipe that adapts perfectly to your preferences.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cooking enthusiast, this recipe will become a favorite in no time!
Simple Lasagna Soup Ingredients
• Cook up the ultimate comfort dish!
For the Soup
- Ground Beef – Provides protein and a hearty flavor; substitute with additional sausage for a more intense taste.
- Italian Sausage – Adds authentic Italian seasoning; choose sweet for mildness or hot for a spicy kick.
- Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing aromatics and ensuring rich flavors.
- Yellow Onion – Sautéed for sweetness and depth in the soup.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic enhances flavor; use generously for that aromatic kick.
- Tomato Paste – Thickens the soup and offers a robust tomato flavor.
- Marinara Sauce – The soup’s base flavor; use quality sauce for the best results.
- Chicken Broth – Provides the essential liquid; homemade broth elevates the dish’s taste.
- Red Pepper Flakes – An optional addition for those who enjoy a little heat; adjust based on preference.
- Fresh Parsley, Dried Oregano, Dried Basil – A fragrant herb mix that deepens the soup’s flavor profile.
- Lasagna Noodles – The heart of this soup; broken into chunks for easy serving.
- Fresh Spinach – Stir in at the end for a bright, nutritious pop.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for bringing all the flavors together; adjust to taste.
For the Cheese Topping
- Ricotta Cheese – Adds a creamy texture; choose whole milk for richness.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully into the soup; fresh mozzarella is recommended for the best results.
- Parmesan Cheese – Provides a salty, nutty finish to each bowl.
- Fresh Basil – A lovely garnish that adds a touch of color and freshness.
Embrace the joy of cooking this cozy Simple Lasagna Soup and watch it become a staple in your home!
How to Make Simple Lasagna Soup
Heat Oil: Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Browning the ground beef and sausage together for about 6-8 minutes will enhance their flavors and bring out a delicious aroma.
Sauté Aromatics: Once meat is nicely browned, drain excess fat but keep a bit for flavor. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes, then stir in minced garlic for an additional 1-2 minutes to release its fragrant oils.
Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste, cooking for 1-2 minutes to develop the rich tomato flavor that will define your soup’s base.
Combine Ingredients: Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth, adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, dried oregano, and basil. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Cook Noodles: Add the broken lasagna noodles directly into the boiling soup. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and have soaked in all the savory goodness.
Fold in Spinach: Gently stir in fresh spinach and parsley, cooking until just wilted, about 1-2 minutes. This will keep the spinach vibrant and nutritious.
Mix Cheese Topping: In a separate bowl, blend together ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. This cheesy topping will add a delightful creaminess to the soup.
Serve Beautifully: Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each serving with a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture and a sprinkle of fresh basil for a fragrant finish.
Optional: Serve with crusty garlic bread on the side for the ultimate comforting experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
This Simple Lasagna Soup is perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the soup base (meats, vegetables, and broth) up to 3 days in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the broken lasagna noodles separate until you’re ready to serve, as this will prevent them from becoming mushy. When it’s time to enjoy your soup, simply reheat the base on the stovetop, bring it to a gentle boil, and add the noodles. Cook until tender, then stir in the fresh spinach and cheese topping just before serving, ensuring each bowl is deliciously comforting and just as satisfying as when freshly made.
Expert Tips for Simple Lasagna Soup
- Timing is Key: Add lasagna noodles only when the soup reaches a rolling boil to avoid mushiness; this ensures they stay perfectly al dente.
- Drain Wisely: After browning the meat, drain excess fat, but leave a little for richness; this prevents the soup from becoming too oily.
- Perfect Spinach: Incorporate fresh spinach at the end of cooking to maintain its bright color and nutrients, enhancing the soup’s presentation.
- Adjusting Thickness: If your Simple Lasagna Soup thickens too much while sitting, simply add additional broth during reheating to restore its delightful consistency.
- Customize Easily: Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or adjust the sausage type based on your family’s taste preferences for a unique twist.
How to Store and Freeze Simple Lasagna Soup
Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep the noodles separate to prevent them from becoming too soft.
Freezer: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, add fresh noodles when reheating to keep the texture just right.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth if the soup thickens too much. Warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Simple Lasagna Soup Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and make this Simple Lasagna Soup your own with these delicious twists!
Turkey Swap: Replace ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner and lighter option, still full of flavor.
Leafy Greens: Substitute fresh spinach with kale or Swiss chard; both add nutrients and a hearty texture to your soup.
Cheese Variety: Use different cheeses like fontina or provolone for a unique twist on the traditional cheesy topping.
Veggie Boost: Incorporate diced bell peppers or mushrooms for an extra dose of nutrition and a delightful texture variation.
Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or more red pepper flakes for those who prefer a spicier kick in their comforting bowl.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap lasagna noodles for gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles to accommodate gluten-free diets without sacrificing flavor.
Creamy Finish: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for an extra luxurious, creamy texture that will melt in your mouth.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with different fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the flavors and create a fragrant experience.
Let your creativity shine and enjoy crafting the perfect bowl that resonates with your family’s tastes!
What to Serve with Simple Lasagna Soup?
As the delightful aroma of your lasagna soup wafts through the kitchen, it’s time to think about fabulous sides that will complete your cozy meal experience.
Garlic Bread: The perfect dipper! Crunchy, buttery garlic bread complements the soup’s richness while adding a delightful crunch.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty soup, making for a well-rounded dinner.
Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: The peppery arugula and zesty dressing bring a fresh brightness, cleansing the palate between each mouthful of soup.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies adds a sweet, caramelized note and enhances your meal’s healthiness.
Parmesan Crisps: These crunchy cheese snacks can be made easily and add another cheesy layer that echoes the flavors of your lasagna soup.
Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread: For those who can’t resist more cheese! This indulgent bread indulgently pairs with every warm bite of the soup.
Wine Pairing: A light red wine like Chianti beautifully enhances the flavors of the Italian sausage and beef, making for a delightful dinner experience.
Each of these pairings offers a unique texture or flavor that perfectly complements the cozy heartiness of your Simple Lasagna Soup!
Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef Recipe FAQs
What type of sausage should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the richest flavor in your Simple Lasagna Soup, using Italian sausage is the way to go. You can choose sweet sausage for a milder taste or hot sausage if you’re in the mood for a spicy kick. Both options will infuse your soup with delicious Italian seasoning that really elevates the dish.
How should I store leftover lasagna soup?
Very! Store any leftover Simple Lasagna Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep the noodles from getting mushy, I recommend storing them separately. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just combine the soup with freshly cooked noodles to maintain that perfect texture!
Can I freeze lasagna soup? What’s the best method?
Definitely! Your Simple Lasagna Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. To do this, let the soup cool completely before pouring it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion as it freezes. When you’re ready to reheat it, add fresh noodles to the soup as it cooks to keep them from becoming mushy.
What should I do if the soup is too thick?
Don’t worry! If your Simple Lasagna Soup thickens too much, simply add a little chicken broth or water while reheating to bring it back to your desired consistency. Heat it slowly over medium, stirring frequently until it’s warmed through. This will keep it nice and enjoyable!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for people with allergies or dietary restrictions, be cautious with the ingredients in your Simple Lasagna Soup. The sausage may contain gluten, dairy, or other allergens. You can easily substitute the ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option and choose gluten-free noodles if necessary. Always double-check ingredient labels for the safest options!
Cozy Simple Lasagna Soup That Will Melt Your Heart
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Browning the ground beef and sausage together for about 6-8 minutes will enhance their flavors and bring out a delicious aroma.
- Once meat is nicely browned, drain excess fat but keep a bit for flavor. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes, then stir in minced garlic for an additional 1-2 minutes to release its fragrant oils.
- Stir in the tomato paste, cooking for 1-2 minutes to develop the rich tomato flavor that will define your soup's base.
- Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth, adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, dried oregano, and basil. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add the broken lasagna noodles directly into the boiling soup. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and have soaked in all the savory goodness.
- Gently stir in fresh spinach and parsley, cooking until just wilted, about 1-2 minutes. This will keep the spinach vibrant and nutritious.
- In a separate bowl, blend together ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. This cheesy topping will add a delightful creaminess to the soup.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each serving with a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture and a sprinkle of fresh basil for a fragrant finish.