Lasagna soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, bringing together all your favorite lasagna elements in one comforting dish. Imagine sitting down on a chilly night with a fragrant bowl of this soup—ooey-gooey cheese melting into a rich tomato broth and tender pasta swimming around like little noodles in a cozy pool.
This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s family game night or just another Tuesday when you need some serious comfort food. I remember the first time I made this lasagna soup; my kids practically inhaled it as if it were the last meal on Earth. The laughter and joy around the dinner table that night became one of our cherished family memories.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This incredible lasagna soup offers ease of preparation while delivering robust flavors that will satisfy your cravings
- It’s visually appealing with layers of colors and textures that make every spoonful exciting
- You can customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand, ensuring versatility for any meal!
My friends couldn’t stop raving about this lasagna soup at our last potluck; it was a total crowd-pleaser!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef or Turkey: Opt for lean ground meat to keep things flavorful without excess grease.
- Onion: Use yellow or white onions for their sweet flavor that enhances the broth perfectly.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are ideal; they provide an aromatic kick that elevates the overall taste.
- Crushed Tomatoes: A must-have ingredient for that rich tomato base—look for high-quality canned ones.
- Beef or Vegetable Broth: Choose low-sodium options to control saltiness while adding depth to the flavor.
- Pasta: Use short pasta shapes like shells or ditalini; they capture the delicious broth beautifully.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella works wonders here; its gooey texture pulls together each bite perfectly.
- Basil and Oregano: Fresh herbs are preferred but dried versions work if that’s what you’ve got!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those yummy flavors throughout the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Start with Browning the Meat: Heat a large pot over medium heat and add ground beef or turkey. Cook until browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Aromatics: Toss in chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes.
Pour in Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in crushed tomatoes along with beef or vegetable broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, allowing those flavors to mingle beautifully.
Add Pasta and Herbs: Toss in your chosen pasta along with basil and oregano. Allow simmering for about 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender yet al dente.
Melt the Cheese In Style!: Stir in fresh mozzarella until melted and bubbly—this step is where magic happens! It should resemble melty clouds floating atop your delicious creation.
Serve It Up!: Ladle generous portions into bowls, garnishing with extra basil or cheese if desired. Enjoy immediately while it’s still warm!
Cooking this lasagna soup not only fills your kitchen with delightful aromas but also creates lasting memories around your dining table. Each spoonful transports you to Italy’s rustic kitchens where comfort food reigns supreme!
You Must Know
- This Lasagna Soup combines comforting flavors with the ease of a one-pot meal
- It’s perfect for busy weeknights and will impress your family or guests
- The rich aroma fills your kitchen, making it hard to resist diving in before it’s even served
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning ground meat (or your favorite protein) in a pot, then add onions and garlic. While that sizzles, stir in diced tomatoes, broth, and seasonings before adding lasagna noodles for a cozy, bubbling delight.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the protein for plant-based alternatives or toss in veggies like spinach or zucchini. Experiment with different herbs such as oregano or basil to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Lasagna Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, warm it on the stove over medium heat until bubbling, adding extra broth if necessary for consistency.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always taste as you go; adjusting seasoning can elevate your soup’s flavors significantly
- Use high-quality broth for a richer base that enhances every bite
- Lastly, don’t skip the cheese garnish; it makes all the difference!
Sharing this Lasagna Soup recipe always brings smiles at gatherings; my friends now request it like it’s on a restaurant menu!
FAQ
Can I make Lasagna Soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just substitute ground meat with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty option.
How long does Lasagna Soup last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for about three days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I freeze Lasagna Soup?
Yes! Freeze it in individual portions for easy meals later; just thaw and reheat.
Lasagna Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Lasagna Soup is a comforting, one-pot dish that captures all the rich flavors of traditional lasagna in a warm, savory broth—perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with loved ones.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef or turkey
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cups short pasta (like shells or ditalini)
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey for about 5-7 minutes until fully cooked.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth; bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the pasta and herbs; cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender but firm.
- Mix in the mozzarella cheese until melted and bubbly.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil if desired.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground meat with lentils or mushrooms.
- Enhance flavor by adding chopped spinach or zucchini.
- Adjust seasonings to taste before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-pot cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 350g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg