Lasagna Soup Recipe

If you ever find yourself craving all the comforting flavors of a classic Italian dinner but want something quicker and more cozy, this Lasagna Soup is exactly what you need. This dish captures every mouthwatering element of traditional lasagna—rich tomato sauce, savory ground beef, creamy ricotta, and tender pasta—in a steaming bowl that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Each spoonful bursts with vibrant herbs, melty cheeses, and perfectly seasoned broth, making this Lasagna Soup an instant favorite for any weeknight or casual gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, quality ingredients is the first step to making a spectacular Lasagna Soup. Each component plays a crucial role: from the creamy ricotta topping that adds luscious texture to the perfectly spiced ground beef bringing depth, and the broken lasagna noodles softening in the flavorful broth for that classic pasta bite.

• Ricotta cheese: Provides the creamy, smooth topping that mimics the cheese layers of traditional lasagna.
• Grated parmesan: Adds a sharp, salty note that brightens the ricotta mixture and final garnish.
• Ground beef (90/10): Packed with flavor and lean enough to keep the soup hearty but balanced.
• Marinara sauce: The tomato base rich with herbs sets the savory and tangy tone of the broth.
• Lasagna sheets: Broken into smaller pieces, they cook perfectly in the broth and give the soup its signature texture.
• Italian seasoning and spices: A blend including paprika, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes that build layers of flavor.
• Heavy cream: Enhances the broth with a subtle silkiness and mellow richness.
• Fresh herbs (basil, parsley): Introduce freshness and vibrant color to brighten every spoonful.
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts into the soup for indulgent cheesy pockets with each bite.
• Olive oil and butter: Used for sautéing garlic and beef, creating a fragrant, flavorful base.

How to Make Lasagna Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Ricotta Topping

Start by mixing the whole milk ricotta with grated parmesan, a pinch of black pepper, salt, and a dash of nutmeg until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This seasoned ricotta will be your rich, luscious topping that beautifully contrasts the savory broth. Set it aside while you work on the soup base.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Brown the Beef

In a large pot over medium-high heat, melt the butter with olive oil, then add minced garlic. Let it cook just until fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes, which builds a solid flavor foundation. Next, add the ground beef, seasoning it generously with Italian seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, black pepper, and salt. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon and cook until fully browned and crumbly. This step infuses the meat with bold, layered tastes essential for the hearty Lasagna Soup experience.

Step 3: Combine and Simmer the Soup

Pour in the marinara sauce, heavy cream, and beef broth. Stir well to combine all those wonderful flavors, then bring to a gentle boil. This rich tomato broth is starting to resemble the warm lasagna sauce we all adore but in liquid form, ready to envelop the pasta in its delicious embrace.

Step 4: Add Pasta and Finish with Freshness

Now, it’s time to add the broken lasagna sheets directly into the bubbling soup. Let them cook for 14 to 16 minutes, or until tender and perfectly soft. Finally, stir in the chopped basil, parsley, and shredded mozzarella, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully throughout the soup, making each spoonful a delightful mix of flavors and textures.

How to Serve Lasagna Soup

Garnishes

To truly elevate your Lasagna Soup, dollop the seasoned ricotta topping generously over each bowl. Adding a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan and an extra handful of chopped basil on top creates a fresh and aromatic finish that guests will love. A crack of black pepper and perhaps a drizzle of good olive oil seals the deal.

Side Dishes

This soup is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some toasted garlic bread to soak up every last bit of broth. Roasted vegetables or an antipasto platter can round out the meal if you’re feeding a crowd or want to make it a special occasion.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve Lasagna Soup in mini Dutch ovens or deep ramekins for individual portions. You could also ladle it over crispy polenta rounds for a fusion-style appetizer. Adding a sprinkle of fresh chili flakes on top can give it an extra kick if you enjoy spice, making the presentation as exciting as the flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Lasagna Soup keeps beautifully when stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will maintain its freshness for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for easy lunches or dinners later in the week.

Freezing

While you can freeze this soup, keep in mind the broken lasagna noodles might become a bit softer upon thawing. To minimize texture changes, you may want to freeze the soup base separately from the pasta or add freshly cooked pasta when reheating. Frozen, it can last up to 3 months and still deliver great flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat to avoid breaking down the noodles further. Stir occasionally until warmed through, and add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much. Top off with fresh ricotta or cheese to revive that just-cooked feel.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey provides a leaner alternative and works well with the spices in the soup. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and adjust seasoning to taste since turkey can be milder.

Is it necessary to break the lasagna sheets into smaller pieces?

Yes, breaking the sheets into bite-sized pieces makes the pasta easier to eat in soup form and allows it to cook evenly and quickly inside the broth.

Can I make the ricotta topping dairy-free?

You can substitute with a plant-based ricotta or blended tofu mixed with nutritional yeast and seasoning to mimic the creamy topping if you need a dairy-free version.

How spicy is this Lasagna Soup? Can I reduce the heat?

The recipe includes red pepper flakes that give a nice warmth but not overwhelming heat. Feel free to adjust or omit the flakes to suit your spice preference.

What is the best way to reheat this soup without overcooking the pasta?

To keep the pasta from becoming mushy, reheat slowly on low heat, and add extra broth or water if needed. If possible, cook and add fresh pasta at serving time.

Final Thoughts

This Lasagna Soup is the kind of recipe that feels like an instant favorite the moment you taste its comforting layers of flavor. It’s versatile, forgiving, and warm—a perfect way to bring the joy of lasagna into a bowl full of goodness. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become your go-to cozy meal for any season. So go ahead, whip up a pot and savor every delicious spoonful!

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