This lasagna soup recipe is a delightful twist on the classic lasagna. It combines all the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna into a hearty soup, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this easy-to-make soup brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. Enjoy the rich, savory taste with minimal effort!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 45 minutes from start to finish, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
- Comforting Flavor: With layers of savory meat, cheese, and pasta, this lasagna soup offers all the comfort of classic lasagna in every spoonful.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this soup by adding your favorite vegetables or substituting different types of pasta.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this hearty soup is sure to impress guests of all ages.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and nutrients, this dish is a nutritious way to enjoy comfort food without the guilt.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare your delicious lasagna soup, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Knife and Cutting Board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Ideal for cooking larger quantities and allows for even heating.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Helps prevent scratching non-stick surfaces while stirring ingredients effectively.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures you add precise amounts of each ingredient for balanced flavor.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 1-2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or preferred oil)
– 1 pound Ground Beef
– 1 large Onion (diced)
– 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
– 1 (15-ounce can) Diced Tomatoes (don’t drain)
– 1 (15-ounce can) Tomato Sauce (or tomato puree)
– 1/3 cup Tomato Paste (about half of a 6-ounce can)
– 4 cups Chicken Broth
– 1-2 cups Water (to adjust consistency)
– 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
– 1 teaspoon Sea Salt (or more as needed to adjust flavor)
– Black Pepper (to taste)
– 8 ounces Bowtie Pasta (uncooked) (see footnote)
– 1/2 cup Ricotta Cheese
– 2 ounces Mozzarella Cheese (shredded, about 1/2 cup)
– 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (shaved, shredded, or fresh grated)
– 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped)
How to Make Lasagna Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating olive oil in your large pot over medium heat.
1. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add ground beef to the pot.
1. Use your wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks.
2. Cook until browned and no longer pink.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Incorporate the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chicken broth, water, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper into the pot.
1. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
1. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Stir in uncooked bowtie pasta into the simmering soup.
1. Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese
Once pasta is cooked,
1. Stir in ricotta cheese until well mixed.
2. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese before serving.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Ladle your lasagna soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.
Enjoy this delectable dish that brings comfort to every meal!
How to Serve Lasagna Soup
Lasagna soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
With Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread – Toasted bread slathered with garlic butter is a perfect pair for dipping in the soup.
- French Baguette – Serve slices of this crispy bread alongside the bowl for a delightful texture contrast.
Topped with Cheese
- Extra Mozzarella – Add more shredded mozzarella on top before serving for a melty, cheesy finish.
- Parmesan Flakes – Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan for an added nutty flavor that complements the soup beautifully.
Garnished with Herbs
- Fresh Basil – Chopped fresh basil adds a burst of freshness and aromatic flavor to each bowl.
- Chopped Parsley – A sprinkle of parsley not only enhances presentation but also adds a touch of earthiness.
Accompanied by Salad
- Caesar Salad – The crisp greens and creamy dressing offer a refreshing balance to the rich soup.
- Greek Salad – A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives provides a tangy contrast that pairs well with lasagna soup.
How to Perfect Lasagna Soup
To achieve the best lasagna soup, consider these tips that will elevate your dish.
- Use Quality Ingredients – Fresh, high-quality ingredients make all the difference in flavor and texture.
- Adjust Seasoning – Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning as needed for maximum flavor.
- Control Pasta Texture – Cook pasta separately to avoid overcooking. Add it just before serving for the best texture.
- Experiment with Cheeses – Mix different cheeses like ricotta or fontina for a richer blend of flavors.
- Add Vegetables – Incorporate vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
- Let It Rest – Allowing your soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking enhances the flavors as they meld together.
Best Side Dishes for Lasagna Soup
Pairing your lasagna soup with the right sides can enhance your meal greatly. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Garlic Knots – Soft dough knots brushed with garlic butter complement the rich flavors of lasagna soup perfectly.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a light and refreshing side.
- Stuffed Mushrooms – Baked mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs provide a savory bite alongside your soup.
- Antipasto Platter – A variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables create an inviting appetizer spread.
- Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil brings brightness and crunch to the table.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and nutrition while balancing out the meal’s richness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making lasagna soup can be fun, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here’s how to avoid them.
- Skipping the sauté step: Not sautéing the onions and garlic can lead to a bland soup. Always take a moment to enhance flavors by cooking these ingredients first.
- Using too much water: Adding excessive water can dilute the flavor of your lasagna soup. Start with less water and adjust for consistency as needed.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta directly in the soup may result in mushiness. Cook it separately or keep an eye on it to ensure it remains al dente.
- Neglecting seasonings: Forgetting to season your soup properly can make it taste flat. Adjust salt and pepper levels throughout cooking for optimal flavor.
- Not letting it rest: Serving immediately after cooking may not allow flavors to meld properly. Letting your soup sit for a few minutes enhances its taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store lasagna soup in airtight containers.
- It will keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Freezing Lasagna Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Lasagna Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warm, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between intervals.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making lasagna soup.
What is Lasagna Soup?
Lasagna soup is a comforting dish that combines all the classic flavors of traditional lasagna into a delicious soup form.
How do I make Lasagna Soup vegetarian?
To make lasagna soup vegetarian, simply substitute ground beef with vegetables like mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I use different types of pasta in Lasagna Soup?
Yes! While bowtie pasta adds a unique texture, you can also use fusilli, rotini, or any pasta you prefer.
How long does Lasagna Soup last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, lasagna soup can last for 3-4 days.
Can I freeze Lasagna Soup?
Absolutely! Lasagna soup freezes well for up to 3 months when stored in airtight containers.
Final Thoughts
This Lasagna Soup recipe is not only easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients or dietary needs. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly night or serving it at a family gathering, this cozy dish is sure to please everyone at the table!
Lasagna Soup
Indulge in the heartwarming delight of Lasagna Soup, a comforting twist on the beloved classic. This easy-to-make recipe combines the rich flavors of savory ground beef, creamy cheeses, and tender pasta in a deliciously seasoned broth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- Olive Oil
- Ground Beef
- Onion
- Garlic
- Diced Tomatoes
- Tomato Sauce
- Chicken Broth
- Bowtie Pasta
- Ricotta Cheese
- Mozzarella Cheese
- Parmesan Cheese
- Fresh Parsley
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion for 5 minutes until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, water, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add uncooked bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Stir in ricotta cheese until well combined. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before ladling into bowls.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
