There’s a certain comfort that comes from gathering around the table with a steaming bowl of soup, and this Quick and Hearty Lasagna Soup brings all the joy of traditional lasagna without the fuss. The moment you take a spoonful, the savory flavors of ground beef and sausage swirl together with a rich tomato broth, creating a sumptuous experience that warms the heart.
After a long day, I’ve found that nothing beats the soothing qualities of a hearty dish that can be whipped up in under an hour. Plus, with just a few simple ingredients and the option to customize meats to your preference, this recipe is as flexible as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want a comforting meal on a busy weeknight, this lasagna soup is the answer to your cravings. So grab your apron and let’s dive into a bowl of ultimate coziness!
Why is Lasagna Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting, every spoonful of this lasagna soup feels like a warm hug. Quick to prepare, it can be on your table in under an hour, perfect for those busy weeknights. Customizable, feel free to swap out meats or add extra veggies based on your personal taste. Hearty and fulfilling, this dish promises to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with garlic bread or a refreshing salad. Dive into this culinary experience, and you’ll understand why it’s a family favorite!
Lasagna Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Ground Beef (0.75 lb) – Use 85/15 for a perfect balance of flavor and fat.
• Ground Sausage (0.5 lb) – Any variety adds a savory depth that enhances the soup.
• Onion (1, finely diced) – Adds sweetness; yellow or white onions are ideal.
• Olive Oil (1 tbsp) – Great for sautéing to release the aromatics.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Fresh garlic gives the best aromatic flavor.
• Tomato Paste (2 tbsp) – Browning it enhances the tomato flavor before adding liquids.
• Marinara Sauce (24 oz) – A high-quality sauce is key; I recommend Rao’s for richness.
• Chicken Broth (7.5 cups) – A flavorful base; can substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter option.
• Red Pepper Flakes (1/4 tsp) – Adds just the right amount of subtle heat; adjust to your spice preference.
• Sugar (1/2 tsp) – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.
For the Seasoning
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing all the flavors; season to taste.
• Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped) – Adds freshness; use fresh for the best flavor.
• Oregano (1/2 tsp) – Brings a delightful herbaceous note to the soup.
• Basil (1.5 tsp) – A must for that classic lasagna taste.
For Noodles and Greens
• Lasagna Noodles (9, broken into 2-inch pieces) – Provides texture; cook al dente to prevent mushiness.
• Fresh Spinach (2 cups) – Add in the last minute for a pop of nutrition and color.
For the Cheese Topping
• Ricotta Cheese (12 oz) – A creamy base for the topping; adds richness.
• Mozzarella Cheese (1.25 cups, shredded) – Melts beautifully for that comforting finish.
• Parmesan Cheese (0.75 cup, freshly grated) – Enhances flavor with a nutty note.
• Fresh Basil (for garnish) – Elevates the dish’s presentation and flavor upon serving.
How to Make Lasagna Soup
Brown the Meats: Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and sausage, cooking for 8-10 minutes. Make sure to season with salt and pepper, and drain any excess fat for a lighter base.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add olive oil and sauté the diced onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Then, add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Incorporate Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes. This step will deepen the flavor and enhance the overall richness of your lasagna soup.
Mix in Sauces and Broth: Add the marinara sauce and chicken broth to the pot. Stir in red pepper flakes, oregano, basil, parsley, and sugar. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer, enhancing all those vibrant flavors.
Add Noodles: Once simmering, toss in the broken lasagna noodles and cook for 8-10 minutes until they are tender but still al dente. This ensures they maintain their texture in the soup.
Fold in Spinach: In the last minute of cooking, gently fold in the fresh spinach. It will wilt beautifully and add a lovely pop of color and nutrition to your soup.
Prepare Cheese Topping: In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. This cheese mixture will provide that comforting, creamy topping that makes the dish feel indulgent.
Serve and Garnish: Dish out the soup hot into bowls and generously top each serving with the cheese mixture. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil for added flavor and visual appeal.
Optional: For an extra touch of flavor, consider drizzling a bit of extra virgin olive oil over the top before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Lasagna Soup Variations
Feel free to explore different twists and substitutions to make this comforting dish your own!
Lean Meat: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a healthier option while maintaining a hearty flavor. This simple swap can lighten the dish while keeping it delicious.
Vegetarian Delight: Use vegetable broth and omitting sausage creates a vibrant vegetarian version; simply replace with hearty veggies like mushrooms and zucchini for added texture.
Spice it Up: Add extra red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. This heat elevates the flavors and gives a whole new dimension to the soup.
Herb Swap: Experiment with different fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fragrant touch. Each herb brings its own unique personality to the dish.
Creamy Twist: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream just before serving for an even creamier feel. This unexpected touch can add richness that enhances each bowl.
Extra Veggies: Feel free to toss in other veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini. Adding them at the start will allow them to soften while enriching the soup’s flavor.
Cheese Variations: Try swapping in provolone, gouda, or even feta cheese for the topping to create a unique flavor profile; the gooeyness or crumbly texture adds surprise!
Herb-Infused Oil: Drizzle some basil or garlic-infused olive oil on top just before serving. This fragrant addition can elevate the dish’s aroma while infusing a burst of flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These comforting Lasagna Soup bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the soup base (without the noodles and cheese) up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its rich flavors. Additionally, you can mix the cheese topping ahead of time, keeping it refrigerated for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the soup base on the stove until simmering, add the broken lasagna noodles, and cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes. Finally, stir in fresh spinach, and top with the prepped cheese mixture for a delicious meal that’s just as comforting and satisfying as if made fresh!
Expert Tips for Lasagna Soup
Perfect Noodle Timing: Add lasagna noodles only when the soup is simmering to ensure they cook al dente. This prevents mushiness and keeps the texture fantastic.
Tomato Paste Magic: Always brown the tomato paste before adding liquid. This step intensifies the flavor of your lasagna soup, adding a depth that’s simply delightful.
Grease Management: Drain excess grease from the browned meat. This will result in a lighter soup base that allows the flavors to shine without being too heavy.
Cheese Timing: Fold in the cheese topping just before serving to guarantee that creamy texture you crave. This enhancement makes each bowl a comforting dream come true.
Fresh is Best: Use fresh herbs when possible for maximum flavor impact. If using dried herbs for the lasagna soup, remember that they are more potent, so use less than the recipe specifies.
What to Serve with Lasagna Soup?
There’s nothing quite like the experience of a comforting meal that brings your loved ones together.
- Garlic Bread: The crunchy exterior and soft, buttery inside of garlic bread are perfect for soaking up the savory broth.
- Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with cherry tomatoes and Italian dressing adds a crisp contrast to the hearty soup.
- Cheesy Breadsticks: These warm, cheesy delights offer a delightful side that complements the rich flavors of the lasagna soup beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: Adding a medley of roasted seasonal veggies not only enhances nutrition but also brings a pop of color to your meal.
- Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine enhances the meal, refining the robust tomato and meat flavors while providing a warm finish.
- Dessert Option: A light Tiramisu or Panna Cotta can round out the meal, offering a sweet end to an otherwise savory feast.
- Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and vegetables creates an Italian-inspired appetizer perfect for mingling before the main course.
- Fresh Basil Garnish: Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh basil on top just before serving; it elevates the flavors and adds a refreshing aroma!
Storage Tips for Lasagna Soup
Fridge: Store any leftover lasagna soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This helps maintain freshness while allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy this comforting lasagna soup later, consider freezing it. Omit the noodles before freezing, and it can last for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over medium heat. Add fresh noodles during the last few minutes of cooking for the best texture and taste.
Airtight Containers: Always use airtight containers to prevent freezer burn and maintain that delicious flavor when storing your homemade lasagna soup.
Lasagna Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ground beef for the lasagna soup?
Absolutely! For an ideal mixture, I recommend using 85/15 ground beef, which strikes a great balance between flavor and fat. If you’re looking for something leaner, 90/10 is a fine option, but keep in mind that a bit of fat adds richness to the soup.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of lasagna soup?
Very! To keep your lasagna soup fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just remember to reheat gently on the stove for the best results!
Can I freeze lasagna soup, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your lasagna soup, omit the noodles before freezing; this prevents them from getting mushy when thawing. Pour the cooled soup into airtight containers or freezer bags, and it can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat on the stove over low to medium heat, adding fresh noodles during the last few minutes.
What should I do if my lasagna noodles become mushy?
If you find that your noodles are overcooked, it’s important to time their addition properly. Add them to the simmering soup and cook only until tender, about 8-10 minutes. If they still become mushy, consider breaking them into smaller pieces next time to enhance texture, and reduce the cooking time.
Can I adjust this recipe to be vegetarian?
Very! To make a vegetarian lasagna soup, simply substitute the ground beef and sausage with a medley of your favorite vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini or use plant-based ground meat alternatives. Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth to create a delightful, hearty soup that everyone can enjoy!
Are there any common food allergies I should be aware of with this recipe?
Definitely! The lasagna soup contains dairy (ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan) and gluten (lasagna noodles), which could trigger allergies for some. For dairy-free or gluten-free versions, there are excellent substitutes available, such as using gluten-free pasta and nut-based cheeses. Always check the labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Hearty Lasagna Soup: Comfort Food in a Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and sausage, cooking for 8-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, and drain any excess fat.
- In the same pot, add olive oil and sauté the diced onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Then, add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
- Add the marinara sauce and chicken broth to the pot. Stir in red pepper flakes, oregano, basil, parsley, and sugar. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer.
- Once simmering, add in the broken lasagna noodles and cook for 8-10 minutes until tender but still al dente.
- In the last minute of cooking, gently fold in the fresh spinach.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses for the topping.
- Dish out the soup hot into bowls and top each serving with the cheese mixture. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil.