Lasagna Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! This Lasagna Soup recipe is one of my all-time favorites. It captures all the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna but comes together in a fraction of the time. Imagine slurping up bowls of this hearty soup on busy weeknights or serving it at your next family gathering—everyone will be asking for seconds!

What makes this recipe special is how simple it is to prepare while still being packed with flavor. You’ll find that it’s not only delicious but also a great way to bring loved ones together around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Lasagna Soup can be whipped up in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love its familiar taste and comforting texture, making dinner a breeze.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can easily prepare this soup in advance and reheat it when needed—ideal for meal prep!
• Packed with Flavor: Every spoonful bursts with rich tomato goodness and hearty ingredients that everyone craves.
• Customizable: This recipe allows for plenty of variations, so you can make it your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients makes cooking feel even more rewarding. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful Lasagna Soup:

For the Soup Base

• 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)

For the Pasta and Toppings

• 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)

Variations

One of the best parts about this Lasagna Soup is how flexible it is! Feel free to switch things up according to your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some chopped spinach or zucchini for an extra dose of nutrients.
• Change the pasta shape: While bowtie pasta is fun, any small pasta shape works well too!
• Make it creamy: Stir in some heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a creamier texture.

How to Make Lasagna Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent. This step is key because it enhances their natural sweetness and lays a flavorful foundation for your soup.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned and well-cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as you go. Browning adds depth and richness to your Lasagna Soup.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Once your meat is ready, stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chicken broth, water, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle boil. This mixture will become the heart of your soup—a perfect blend of flavors!

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add in uncooked bowtie pasta to your bubbling soup. Let it simmer until cooked al dente—this usually takes about 10 minutes. The pasta will soak up some of that fantastic sauce while adding its own heartiness.

Step 5: Finish It Off

Finally, stir in ricotta cheese until it’s smoothly incorporated. Then top each bowl with shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese right before serving. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds that final touch of flavor and freshness!

And there you have it—a comforting bowl of Lasagna Soup that’s sure to bring smiles all around! Enjoy every spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Lasagna Soup

Making lasagna soup is a breeze, but a few expert tips can take it to the next level!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance the flavor profile of your soup and make it taste more vibrant and homemade.

• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker consistency, reduce the amount of water you add. Conversely, for a lighter soup, increase the water or broth.

• Experiment with Pasta Shapes: While bowtie pasta is delightful, feel free to try other shapes like fusilli or penne for a fun twist that also holds the sauce well.

• Mix Up the Cheeses: Don’t hesitate to swap out or add different cheeses. Creamy goat cheese or sharp cheddar can give your soup an exciting flavor variation.

• Make It Ahead: Lasagna soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for a couple of days and even tastes better on day two as the flavors meld together!

How to Serve Lasagna Soup

Serving lasagna soup is part of the joy! Here are some ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil adds a burst of color and aromatic freshness.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this garnish provides an extra kick.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: This classic pairing is perfect for soaking up every drop of delicious soup. You can easily make it using your favorite bread and garlic spread.

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad complements the richness of lasagna soup with its crunchy romaine and creamy dressing, offering a refreshing contrast.

• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or zucchini provides color and nutrition while balancing out the meal nicely.

• Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft and cheesy, these are perfect for dipping into your hearty soup and adding an extra layer of comfort to your dinner table.

Enjoy serving this lovely lasagna soup with these delightful touches!

Make Ahead and Storage

This lasagna soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store and enjoy it later.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• If you want to keep the flavors fresh, consider separating the pasta from the broth before storing.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just label with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to adjust consistency.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious lasagna soup recipe!

Can I use other types of pasta for lasagna soup?

Absolutely! While bowtie pasta works beautifully, feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta shapes like shells or rotini.

What makes this lasagna soup different from traditional lasagna?

Lasagna soup combines all the classic flavors of lasagna in a comforting soup form, making it quicker and easier to prepare while still being just as satisfying!

How do I make lasagna soup vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or sautéed vegetables. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added flavor.

Can I prepare lasagna soup ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can make it in advance and store it in the fridge or freeze portions for later.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this cozy lasagna soup! It’s such a comforting dish that brings family and friends together around the table. Enjoy every delicious bite, and don’t hesitate to share your own twists on this recipe. Happy cooking!