A cozy evening spent in the kitchen, the potential for a delicious meal bubbling away… that’s what Lasagna Soup is all about! I first came across this comforting dish at a friend’s house on a chilly autumn night. As the aroma of simmering tomatoes, garlic, and herbs filled the air, I could hardly wait to dive into this delightful bowl of goodness. The warmth enveloped me like my favorite blanket, and each spoonful was a perfect blend of flavors that danced on my palate — savory, cheesy, and just the right amount of hearty. It was love at first taste, and I knew I had to recreate this magical dish in my own kitchen. I’m excited for you to discover the joys of Lasagna Soup too — it’s a dish that embodies comfort, flavor, and nostalgia.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This Lasagna Soup comes together in just about 30 minutes!
• One-Pot Wonder: Less mess means more time for cozy chats with family and friends.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for gatherings, everyone will adore this comforting classic.
• Customizable: Adjust ingredients according to your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Flavorful and Hearty: Packed with rich, savory flavors that will warm you from the inside out.
• Perfect Any Time: Enjoy it in cool weather or cozy up with it in a rainy afternoon.

Recipe Snapshot

| Category | Cuisine | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Yield | Skill Level |
|—————-|—————-|———–|———–|————|——-|————-|
| Soup | Italian | 10 mins | 20 mins | 30 mins | 8 | Easy |

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
  This is your source of protein, bringing richness to each spoonful. Use turkey or chicken for a leaner option!
• 1 onion, chopped
  The aromatic base that adds depth of flavor. Sautéing it fills your kitchen with a cozy scent!
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  Because everything is better with garlic! It infuses the soup with flavor that makes your mouth water.
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  The heart of the soup! Choose fire-roasted for an added smoky flavor.
• 4 cups beef broth
  Adds a savory warmth. Homemade or store-bought, it works wonders!
• 2 cups water
  A simple way to adjust the soup’s consistency. You can replace it with broth for more flavor.
• 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
  The fun bit! Broken noodles give that classic lasagna feel — feel free to use whole wheat for a healthier twist.
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
  Creaminess at its finest! For a lighter option, consider cottage cheese.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  Melts beautifully and adds that gooey factor. Sprinkle some on top for a bubbly finish!
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  A nutty touch that elevates the flavor. Freshly grated will make your soup extra special!
• 1 tsp dried oregano
  A staple of Italian cooking. Its fragrant aroma will remind you of a sunny Italian kitchen!
• 1 tsp dried basil
  Earthy and sweet — use fresh if you can; it adds a wonderful brightness!
• Salt and pepper to taste
  Don’t forget to season! Taste as you go for the best results.
• Fresh basil for garnish
  A lovely finishing touch — adds freshness and color to your dish.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

Step 1: Cook the Meat

In a large pot, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is nicely browned and the onions are translucent. The lovely scent of sautéing garlic fills the air; it’s simply irresistible! Drain excess fat to keep this soup light and flavorful.

Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Broth

Now, stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, water, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. The vibrant color will be a feast for your eyes! Bring everything to a boil, letting those wonderful flavors marry together.

Step 3: Incorporate the Noodles

Once boiling, toss in the broken lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. The noodles should add a delightful chewy texture to your soup — who doesn’t love a bit of bite?

Step 4: Mix in the Cheeses

Stir in the ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. As you mix, the cheese will start to melt, creating a creamy soup that feels like a warm hug. Cook until everything is just heated through.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Serve hot, garnishing with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil. The melted cheese creates a beautiful presentation, and the fresh herb adds a pop of color — it’s picture-perfect and ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips for Success

1. Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables and measure out ingredients before starting to make cooking smoother.
2. Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Remember that they will continue cooking in the soup, so aim for al dente for the best texture!
3. Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Feel free to tweak the herbs and seasonings to suit your palate.
4. Let it Sit: For even more developed flavors, let the soup sit for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Top it Off: Consider adding a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra flavor boost!

Flavor Variations

• Veggie Lovers: Add in bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for a nutritious twist.
• Spice Things Up: Incorporate diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Whole Grain Options: Swap out lasagna noodles for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier alternative.
• Cheesy Goodness: Mix in a variety of cheeses like Gouda or fontina for a decadent touch.

Serving Suggestions

This Lasagna Soup pairs well with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or even a cheesy focaccia. For drinks, a lovely red wine like Chianti or a rich Italian soda can elevate your meal. When plating, ladle the soup into rustic bowls, top with extra herbs and cheese, and serve with a smile!

Make-Ahead & Storage

For all busy chefs, you can prep ahead by chopping your veggies and measuring out ingredients the night before. Once your soup is cooked, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Leftovers

Leftover Lasagna Soup can transform into a new meal! Use it as a filling for stuffed peppers, or pour it over cooked rice for a delicious casserole twist. Get creative!

Freezing

Absolutely! This cozy soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in freezer-safe containers. For reheating, let it thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Reheat your soup gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also pop it in the microwave, heating it in 30-second intervals, until it’s warmed through. Just be careful not to overdo it!

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
Cottage cheese or a dairy-free alternative works beautifully too!

Can I use fresh noodles instead of dried?
Yes, but keep an eye on the cooking time since fresh noodles will cook faster.

How do I know when my Lasagna Soup is done?
When your noodles are al dente and the soup is bubbly and aromatic, it’s ready to serve!

Final Thoughts

As you wrap your hands around a warm bowl of Lasagna Soup, remember that cooking is all about love and joy. Just like that delightful evening spent with friends, you’re creating memories that will fill your heart (and stomach!). I hope this recipe warms your soul as much as it does mine. Dive in, and most importantly, enjoy every delicious bite. Happy cooking, my friends!

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