This Cheesy Lasagna Soup brings all the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna into a warm, hearty bowl. Packed with rich pasta sauce, tender noodles, creamy cheeses, and flavorful ground beef, this one-pot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil (15 ml)
- ½ an onion, diced (about 75g)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 6g)
- 250g ground beef (about ½ lb)
- 150g pasta sauce (about ¾ cup)
- 500ml water (about 2 cups)
- 50ml heavy cream (about ¼ cup)
- 15g Parmesan cheese (about 2 tbsp)
- 50g mozzarella cheese (about ½ cup shredded)
- 150g lasagna noodles (about 6 oz, broken into smaller pieces)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Directions
- Sauté Aromatics
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the Ground Beef
- Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart as it cooks. Cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Simmer the Base
- Pour in the pasta sauce and water. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Cook the Noodles
- Break the lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and add them to the pot. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender.
- Add Cream and Cheese
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses. Let the soup simmer for 3-4 minutes until the cheeses are melted and the soup is creamy.
- Season and Serve
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a slice of garlic bread for dipping.
- Pair with a crisp Caesar salad for a balanced meal.
- Top with extra shredded mozzarella and broil for a few minutes until bubbly.
- Add a dollop of ricotta cheese on top for an extra creamy texture.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
Cooking Tips
- Break the lasagna noodles evenly for consistent cooking.
- Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef for a spicier kick.
- Substitute pasta sauce with crushed tomatoes and Italian herbs for a homemade touch.
- Add spinach or kale for extra nutrients and a pop of color.
Nutritional Benefits
- Protein: Ground beef and cheese provide a high-protein content to keep you full.
- Calcium: Mozzarella and Parmesan contribute to bone health.
- Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian Option: Swap ground beef with plant-based crumbles or mushrooms.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~320
- Protein: ~20g
- Carbs: ~25g
- Fat: ~16g
- Fiber: ~3g
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines the best of lasagna and soup in one pot.
- Quick to make and perfect for a busy day.
- Customizable with your favorite ingredients.
- Creamy, cheesy, and hearty—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Conclusion
Cheesy Lasagna Soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings the flavors of a classic lasagna to your table in a fraction of the time. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. Make this delicious recipe your go-to for a cozy, wholesome meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use another type of pasta? Yes, any short pasta like penne or rotini works well.
- Can I make this vegetarian? Replace ground beef with mushrooms or plant-based meat.
- Can I make this ahead? Yes, prepare the soup without adding noodles, then cook and add noodles when reheating.
- What can I substitute for heavy cream? Use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter option.
- Can I add vegetables? Absolutely, spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers are great additions.
- How do I reheat it? Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding water or broth if it thickens too much.
- Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
- What cheese can I use instead of mozzarella? Try provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses.
- Can I make it spicy? Add red chili flakes or hot sauce for some heat.
- How can I thicken the soup? Simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry for a thicker consistency.