Lasagne Soup with Mafalda Noodles
All the flavors of classic lasagne, transformed into a cozy soup.
Introduction
Lasagne soup is the ultimate comfort food — rich tomato broth, savory ground beef, aromatic herbs, and pasta that mimics lasagne sheets. By using mafalda noodles (those charming mini‑lasagne ribbons), you capture the essence of traditional lasagne without the layering and baking. This soup is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for cold, rainy nights when you crave something warm and satisfying.
Ingredients
Soup Base
1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp red pepper flakes
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Pasta
2 cups mafalda noodles (or substitute with broken lasagne sheets or rotini)
Optional Garnishes
Ricotta cheese
Shredded mozzarella
Grated Parmesan
Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef
In a large soup pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
Drain excess fat.
Add diced onion and garlic, sauté until softened and fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Broth
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth.
Add basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
In a separate pot, cook mafalda noodles until al dente. Drain.
Add pasta to soup just before serving to prevent sogginess.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Ladle soup into bowls.
Top with a dollop of ricotta, sprinkle mozzarella or Parmesan, and garnish with fresh basil.
Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.
Recipe Notes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: ~50 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Tips for Success
Cook pasta separately to keep the broth rich and prevent noodles from absorbing too much liquid.
For extra depth, add a splash of red wine to the broth while simmering.
If you prefer a creamier soup, stir in ½ cup heavy cream before serving.
Store leftovers with pasta separate from broth; combine when reheating.
Fun Variations
Vegetarian Version: Swap beef for mushrooms and zucchini, use vegetable broth.
Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Cheesy Indulgence: Stir shredded mozzarella directly into the soup for gooey texture.
Italian Sausage Twist: Replace ground beef with spicy Italian sausage for bold flavor.
Serving Ideas
Pair with garlic bread or focaccia.
Serve alongside a crisp Caesar salad.
Offer a “lasagne soup bar” with toppings like ricotta, Parmesan, and fresh herbs so guests can customize their bowls.
Storytelling Element
Picture a steaming bowl of soup on a rainy evening: the mafalda noodles curl like mini lasagne sheets, the broth is rich with tomato and beef, and the cheese melts into creamy pockets. It’s lasagne comfort without the oven time — a dish that feels both rustic and indulgent.
Conclusion
This Lasagne Soup with Mafalda Noodles is a cozy, family‑friendly recipe that transforms the flavors of lasagne into a warming soup. Easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and perfect for cold nights, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen.