Imagine all the rich, comforting flavors of a classic Italian lasagna transformed into a warm, hearty soup. Perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave a cozy, satisfying meal, this lasagna soup brings together tender ground beef, fragrant herbs, and luscious cheeses in a bowl.
Inspired by traditional lasagna but easier to prepare and serve, this soup is a wonderful way to enjoy a family favorite without the fuss of layered pasta. Each spoonful delivers a melody of tomato, cheese, and savory beef with the perfect hint of Italian seasoning.
- The comforting flavors of classic lasagna in a quick-to-make soup.
- Perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners with family and friends.
- Customizable to dietary preferences including gluten-free and vegetarian options.
Ingredients
- Ground Beef (1 pound): Provides rich, hearty protein that forms the savory base of the soup.
- Chopped Onion (1 medium): Adds natural sweetness and depth when sautéed until translucent.
- Minced Garlic (2 cloves): Imparts a fragrant, bold aroma enhancing the Italian flavor profile.
- Crushed Tomatoes (1 can, 28 ounces): Creates a robust, tangy tomato sauce that is the backbone of the soup.
- Chicken Broth (4 cups): Adds savory depth and thins the mixture to a perfect soup consistency.
- Broken Lasagna Noodles (2 cups): Pasta pieces that mimic traditional lasagna layers, cooked to tender al dente.
- Italian Seasoning (2 teaspoons): A blend of herbs that brings authentic Italian flavor and warmth.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the soup’s flavors.
- Ricotta Cheese (1 cup): Creamy topping that adds richness and a mild, sweet flavor.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully, providing gooey cheesiness on top.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup): Adds sharp, umami-packed depth for finishing.
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef
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Heat a large pot over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. This step builds flavor and forms the hearty base of the soup.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic
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Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the browned beef. Cook until the onion becomes translucent, releasing sweetness and aromatic complexity.
- Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Seasoning
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Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. This combination creates a rich, flavor-packed broth. Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing to a simmer.
- Simmer to Develop Flavor
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Let the soup simmer gently for 15 minutes to marry the flavors and thicken slightly, intensifying the tomato and herb notes.
- Cook the Pasta
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Add broken lasagna noodles to the pot and cook until tender but still firm (al dente). This ensures chewiness and prevents mushiness in the final dish.
- Season and Taste
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Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your preference, balancing acidity and enhancing the savory profile of the soup.
- Serve with Cheeses
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Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top each serving with dollops of ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan. The cheeses melt into creamy, decadent layers reminiscent of classic lasagna.
- This soup can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta or breaking gluten-free lasagna noodles into pieces.
- For a vegetarian twist, substitute ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils.
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread to complete this comforting meal.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if the soup thickens too much. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this lasagna soup with a crisp green salad and a glass of red wine for a satisfying Italian-inspired dinner. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for brightness and extra color.
- Use fresh garlic and quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor depth.
- Break lasagna noodles into bite-size pieces to ensure even cooking and easier eating.
- Allow the soup to rest uncovered after cooking to thicken if desired.
- Customize the cheese toppings according to preference; substitute with vegan cheese for dairy-free options.
FAQs
- Can I make this soup ahead of time?
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Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance and reheat it before serving. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight.
- What if I don’t have lasagna noodles?
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Any short pasta such as penne or broken rigatoni works as a substitute in this soup.
- How do I keep the noodles from getting mushy?
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Add noodles toward the end of cooking and cook just until al dente. Alternatively, cook noodles separately and add them when serving.
- Can I freeze leftover soup?
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Yes, this soup freezes well. Freeze in portions and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Is this soup suitable for a gluten-free diet?
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Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta or gluten-free lasagna noodles to make this recipe gluten free.
- Can I make this soup vegetarian?
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Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils, and use vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian.
Hearty Lasagna Soup
Equipment
- 1 large pot for cooking soup
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups pasta such as lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add broken lasagna noodles and cook until al dente.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle soup into bowls and top with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning as desired.
- Use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
- Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
