This Lasagna Soup is a delicious and hearty one-pot meal that brings all the flavors of traditional lasagna with half the effort. Packed with robust flavors, this comforting dish is perfect for meal prep, reheats beautifully, and makes a cozy dinner for cold winter nights. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or a friendly gathering, this soup is sure to impress.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- Pasta & Cheese:
- 8–10 lasagna noodles (225 g), broken into thirds
- 8 oz (225 g) ricotta cheese (whole-fat recommended)
- 2 ½ oz (70 g) Boursin garlic and herb cheese (optional)
- ¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup (50 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- Protein & Broth:
- 2 lbs (900 g) ground beef (or turkey/chicken)
- 4 cups (1 liter) beef broth
- Tomato Base:
- 1 can (14 oz/400 g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (28 oz/800 g) tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- Herbs & Seasonings:
- Fresh basil and parsley (chopped)
- 1 tbsp Italian herb paste
- 1 tbsp beef bouillon powder (optional)
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of sugar
- Vegetables:
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Directions
- Prepare the ricotta mixture by combining ricotta, Boursin cheese, Parmesan, mozzarella, basil, parsley, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of all-purpose seasoning. Mix well and refrigerate.
- Heat a soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add oil, and cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add diced onion to the pot and sauté until translucent. Stir in tomato paste, Italian herb paste, and minced garlic, cooking for 1–2 minutes.
- Deglaze the pot with beef broth, scraping the bottom for added flavor. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Break lasagna noodles into thirds and add to the soup. Let simmer for 15–20 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
- Add fresh basil, parsley, a pinch of sugar, and adjust seasonings to taste.
- Serve in bowls, topped with a generous scoop of ricotta mixture and fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Serve with a fresh green salad.
- Add a side of roasted vegetables.
- Top with extra shredded mozzarella or Parmesan.
- Serve with a warm crusty baguette.
Cooking Tips
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- Cook the ground beef thoroughly before adding other ingredients.
- Break lasagna noodles into even pieces for better presentation.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preference.
- Let the soup rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
Nutritional Benefits
- Rich in protein from beef and cheese.
- Provides essential vitamins from tomatoes and fresh herbs.
- High in calcium from cheese.
- A comforting meal that’s nutrient-dense and filling.
Dietary Information
- Can be made gluten-free with gluten-free lasagna noodles.
- Use low-fat ricotta for a lighter option.
- Swap beef for turkey or chicken for a leaner protein choice.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 4 g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Offers all the flavors of classic lasagna without the effort.
- It’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup simple.
- Great for meal prep and reheats beautifully.
Conclusion
Lasagna soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings joy to any table. It’s a perfect balance of ease and deliciousness, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned cooks. With fresh ingredients and a hearty base, this soup warms the heart and soul. Try it once, and it’ll quickly become a family favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or mushrooms for a vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. - What type of noodles can I use?
Regular or gluten-free lasagna noodles work best, but any sturdy pasta can be substituted. - Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving. - Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, allow it to cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. - How can I make it spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup. - Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
While pre-shredded cheese works, freshly shredded cheese melts better and provides a creamier texture. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or use the microwave in 1-minute increments until warmed through. - Can I use a different type of broth?
Yes, chicken or vegetable broth can be used if beef broth isn’t available. - How do I prevent the noodles from becoming mushy?
Cook the soup until the noodles are just al dente and avoid overcooking during reheating. - Can I substitute ricotta cheese?
Yes, cottage cheese or mascarpone can be used as substitutes for ricotta.