Lasagna Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting meal that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! This Lasagna Soup is one of my all-time favorites. It combines the rich, hearty flavors of traditional lasagna with the ease of a soup. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish is sure to please everyone around the table.

What makes this recipe special is how simple it is to whip up. You can have a delicious dinner ready in under an hour, which means more time to relax and enjoy with loved ones. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that make each bowl hearty and satisfying!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick prep time: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can dive into making this delicious meal without any fuss.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves lasagna! This soup version keeps all the flavors kids adore while being easy for adults to enjoy too.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve—perfect for meal prep!
• Deliciously comforting: Each bowl is filled with rich flavors that warm your soul, making it ideal for chilly evenings.
• Flexible ingredients: Use what you have on hand or customize it to fit your family’s preferences!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Lasagna Soup, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry, you likely have many of them in your pantry already!

For the Soup Base

• 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)

For the Pasta and Toppings

• 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)

Variations

This Lasagna Soup is wonderfully flexible! Here are some variations to keep things interesting:

• Swap the protein: Feel free to replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to boost nutrition and flavor.
• Change the pasta: If you’re feeling adventurous, try different pasta shapes like shells or even gluten-free alternatives.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for a little heat if your family enjoys a bit of spice!

How to Make Lasagna Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add in the diced onion and sauté until they become translucent—this usually takes about 5 minutes. The onions will soften and sweeten as they cook, creating a wonderful base for your soup.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Next, add in the ground beef. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Brown it thoroughly for about 5-7 minutes until no pink remains. This step adds depth and richness to your soup that’s hard to resist.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Once the beef is browned, stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then add in your diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. These ingredients will create that luscious lasagna flavor we all love!

Step 4: Pour in Broth and Seasonings

Now it’s time to add your chicken broth along with water to reach your desired soup consistency. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir and let it simmer for about 15 minutes so those flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Add the uncooked bowtie pasta directly into the pot. Cook according to package instructions—usually about 8-10 minutes—until al dente. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks!

Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Herbs

Finally, remove your pot from heat and stir in ricotta cheese until combined. Top each serving with shredded mozzarella cheese and fresh parsley before serving. The melty cheese adds creaminess while the parsley gives a lovely pop of color!

And there you have it—a heartwarming bowl of Lasagna Soup that’s sure to become a cherished part of your family’s dinner rotation! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Lasagna Soup

Making lasagna soup is delightful and straightforward, but a few tips can make your dish even more enjoyable!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley or basil not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful pop of color to your soup.
• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of water added. For a brothier consistency, simply add more.
• Cook pasta separately: To avoid overcooking, you can cook the bowtie pasta separately and then add it to each bowl just before serving. This keeps it al dente!
• Make it vegetarian: Swap out ground beef for your favorite plant-based protein or mushrooms to create a hearty vegetarian version that everyone will love.
• Let it sit: Allowing the soup to rest for about 10 minutes after cooking lets all the flavors meld perfectly, making each bite even more delicious!

How to Serve Lasagna Soup

Serving lasagna soup is as easy as enjoying it! Here are some fun ideas to elevate your meal presentation.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil not only adds a lovely aroma but also complements the tomato base beautifully.
• Croutons: Add homemade or store-bought croutons for an extra crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy elements.
• Extra Cheese: A sprinkle of additional mozzarella or Parmesan on top right before serving gives an irresistible cheesy finish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping, garlic bread pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of lasagna soup and is always a favorite.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a fresh contrast to the warm soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add color and nutrition to your meal while complementing the flavors of the soup.
• Caprese Skewers: These skewers made with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella (non-dairy if preferred), and fresh basil are refreshing and tie in beautifully with Italian flavors.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your lasagna soup will be a hit at any dinner table! Enjoy every comforting spoonful.

Make Ahead and Storage

This lasagna soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time or store leftovers, ensuring you have a hearty meal ready whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• If you have leftover cheese, store it separately to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down to room temperature.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Remember to label the containers with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute increments until hot.

FAQs

If you have questions about making this delicious lasagna soup, you’re in the right place!

Can I make lasagna soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! Lasagna soup can be made up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

How do I adjust the consistency of my lasagna soup?

If your lasagna soup is too thick, simply add a bit more water or chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. It’s meant to be cozy and saucy!

Can I use other types of pasta in this recipe?

Sure! While bowtie pasta works wonderfully, feel free to substitute with any short pasta like penne or rotini that you have on hand.

Is there a vegetarian version of lasagna soup?

Yes! You can easily replace ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version while keeping all the delicious flavors intact.

Final Thoughts

I hope this lasagna soup recipe brings warmth and joy to your kitchen! It’s a delightful way to enjoy all the flavors of traditional lasagna without all the fuss. Enjoy making it as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you. Happy cooking!