This Lasagna Soup combines all the comforting flavors of classic lasagna into a quick and easy one-pot dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy meal, it’s a bowl of hearty goodness with tender pasta, rich tomato broth, and creamy cheese. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 1 lb ground beef: Lean ground beef works best, but you can substitute with Italian sausage or ground turkey.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds a mild, sweet flavor to the soup.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Essential for rich, aromatic flavor.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Acts as the base; vegetable broth can also be used.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: Choose your favorite jarred or homemade sauce.
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds texture and acidity to the broth.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary enhances the flavor.
- 8 oz pasta (broken lasagna noodles): Substitute with bow-tie, penne, or rotini pasta if preferred.
For Toppings:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Provides creamy, classic lasagna richness.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into the soup for gooey perfection.
- Fresh basil, chopped: Adds a fragrant, fresh finish.
Instructions
1. Brown the Beef and Aromatics:
- Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
- Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
2. Create the Broth:
- Pour in the chicken broth, marinara sauce, and canned diced tomatoes (with their juice). Stir in the Italian seasoning.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
3. Cook the Pasta:
- Add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Stir well to prevent them from sticking together.
- Simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but not overcooked. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4. Prepare the Cheese Topping:
- While the soup is cooking, mix the ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt in a small bowl.
- Shred the mozzarella cheese and chop the fresh basil for garnish.
5. Assemble and Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls. Add a dollop of ricotta cheese to the center of each bowl.
- Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and a generous amount of fresh basil.
Tips & Variations
- Make it vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and replace the beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative.
- Add vegetables: Stir in chopped spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add more broth when reheating, as the pasta absorbs liquid over time.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: ~350 | Protein: ~20g | Carbs: ~28g | Fat: ~18g
Enjoy this hearty Lasagna Soup, where every spoonful brings the comfort of your favorite baked dish in a fraction of the time! 🍲