Deconstructed Lasagna Soup

Hello, friends! Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that has stolen my heart and made its way into my regular dinner rotation: Deconstructed Lasagna Soup! This delightful dish was inspired by a cozy night in my kitchen, surrounded by the aromatic scents of simmering tomatoes and garlic. It was one of those evenings when the chill outside made the inside of my home feel just right. With a warm blanket draped over my lap and a glass of red wine within reach, I decided to take traditional lasagna and reinvent it as a warming soup.

The first bubble of the broth and the fragrant hints of Italian herbs danced through the air, wrapping me in a comforting embrace. As I stirred in the cheesy goodness, I couldn’t help but smile at the thought of how much my family would love this. And just like that, Deconstructed Lasagna Soup became a family favorite! I know you and your loved ones will cherish it too—cozy flavors and heartwarming textures come together in a way that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple & Quick: Ready in just under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight meals!
• Family-Friendly: A sure hit among kids and adults alike—who doesn’t love cheese?
• Healthy Twist: Packed with chicken and plenty of veggies, it’s nutritious without skimping on flavor.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup? Yes, please! All made in just one pot.
• Customizable: Make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the seasonings.

Recipe Snapshot

| Category | Cuisine | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Yield | Skill Level |
|—————-|————–|———–|———–|————|——-|—————-|
| Soup | Italian | 10 mins | 20 mins | 30 mins | 6 servings | Easy |

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground chicken: A lean protein that keeps this dish light and flavorful.
• 1 onion, chopped: Adds a wonderful depth of flavor and sweetness to the base.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Because every good recipe deserves an aromatic punch!
• 4 cups chicken broth: Rich and savory—a perfect base for our soup.
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes: Brings in that beloved tomato essence and a pop of acidity.
• 2 cups lasagna noodles, broken into pieces: Traditional noodles that give you that comforting pasta feel.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: Creamy goodness that adds a touch of indulgence.
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully and provides that iconic lasagna flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Blends in wonderful herbaceous notes.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
• Fresh basil for garnish: A bright, aromatic finish that makes your soup look gorgeous.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

1. Brown the Chicken

First, in a large pot, brown the ground chicken with the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat. The aroma will be intoxicating as the garlic begins to sizzle, releasing its flavor. Stir occasionally, letting the chicken get a golden hue.

2. Simmer the Broth

Next, add the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes to the pot and bring everything to a simmer. The warmth of the broth will envelop the kitchen, filling it with the smell of fresh tomatoes. It’s a cozy moment to savor!

3. Add the Noodles

Stir in the broken lasagna noodles and let them cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on them, giving them a gentle stir every now and then. This is where that comforting pasta texture comes into play.

4. Melt the Cheeses

Once the noodles are tender, reduce the heat and stir in the ricotta and mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy. Oh, the sights and smells coming from your pot will be so inviting—you might just find yourself taste-testing at this point!

5. Season It Up

Season the soup with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir, letting all those delightful flavors mingle and embrace each other.

6. Serve & Garnish

Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil. A sprinkle of green adds a lovely finishing touch and an extra pop of flavor. Look at you—a culinary superstar!

Pro Tips for Success

• Don’t rush the browning of the chicken! Let it develop those flavors for the best taste.
• Feel free to use whole-wheat lasagna noodles for a healthier alternative.
• If you want a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when simmering the broth.
• Experiment with different cheeses—Parmesan, anyone?
• Always taste as you go; everyone’s palate is so unique!

Flavor Variations

• Vegetarian Delight: Swap the ground chicken for chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or even lentils.
• Herbal Twist: Add a splash of pesto for a fresh and herbaceous kick.
• Seasonal Goodness: Toss in spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Deconstructed Lasagna Soup with a slice of garlic bread or a light side salad to balance the meal. For drinks, a glass of red wine or a sparkling water with a slice of lemon makes for a refreshing contrast.

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can prep this soup ahead of time! Just prepare everything up until adding the noodles, and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply heat it up and add the noodles. This dish lasts in the fridge for about 3 days, but trust me, it’s so good, it’ll likely get devoured!

Leftovers

Leftover Deconstructed Lasagna Soup makes a fantastic lunch. Use it as a base for a pasta salad, or add more broth and veggies for a heartier soup.

Freezing

Yes, this scrumptious soup can be frozen! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If you’re short on time, the microwave works in a pinch, but do stir halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use different kinds of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or beef can be substituted, or even cooked sausage for extra flavor.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes! Just use gluten-free pasta substitutes, and check your broth and tomato can labels to ensure they’re gluten-free.

Can I adjust the spice level?
Of course! Feel free to add your favorite spices or omit them altogether for a milder flavor.

Is it possible to make this vegan?
Yes, for a vegan version, use plant-based ground meat, vegetable broth, and swap out dairy cheeses for nut-based or vegan cheeses.

Final Thoughts

As the cool evenings draw in, there is nothing quite like a bowl of Deconstructed Lasagna Soup to warm your soul. I hope you and your loved ones find joy in creating this recipe, just as I did in my kitchen. With every spoonful, may you feel the love and care infused in each bite. Until next time, happy cooking and stay cozy, friends!

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