One Pot Lasagna Soup – Rich, Cheesy & Comforting
All the flavors of classic lasagna—ground meat, tomato sauce, tender noodles, and melty cheese—in one warm, satisfying soup.
Introduction: Lasagna, Simplified
Lasagna is a beloved comfort food—layers of pasta, meat, sauce, and cheese baked to perfection. But let’s be honest: it’s a labor of love. This One Pot Lasagna Soup captures all the rich, cheesy goodness of traditional lasagna in a fraction of the time and effort. No layering, no baking—just one pot, one simmer, and dinner is served.
Perfect for chilly nights, busy weeknights, or when you’re craving something hearty and nostalgic, this soup is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize and even easier to love.
Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s take a closer look at what makes this soup so irresistible:
Base:
- Ground beef or Italian sausage (1 lb)
Adds savory depth and richness. Use sausage for extra flavor or mix both. - Onion (1 small, diced)
Adds sweetness and aromatic base. - Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
Essential for that classic Italian flavor.
Seasoning:
- Italian seasoning (1 tsp)
A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme. - Crushed red pepper flakes (½ tsp, optional)
Adds a gentle kick—adjust to taste. - Salt & pepper (to taste)
Essential for balance and flavor.
Liquid Base:
- Chicken or beef broth (4 cups)
Forms the soup’s savory foundation. - Marinara or pasta sauce (1 jar, 24 oz)
Adds tomato richness and classic lasagna flavor. - Water (2 cups)
Helps cook the noodles and balance the broth.
Pasta:
- Lasagna noodles (8, broken into pieces)
No need to pre-cook—just break and simmer.
Tip: Use oven-ready noodles for faster cooking or swap with rotini or bowtie pasta.
Creamy Finish:
- Heavy cream or half-and-half (½ cup)
Adds richness and smooth texture. - Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded)
Melts into the soup for gooey goodness. - Parmesan cheese (¼ cup, grated)
Adds salty, nutty depth.
Optional: Top with ricotta for true lasagna vibes.
Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley
Adds color and freshness.
Equipment Needed
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
- Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Meat
In a large pot over medium heat:
- Brown 1 lb ground beef or sausage with 1 diced onion until cooked through—about 6–8 minutes.
Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Add Garlic & Seasonings
Stir in:
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Broth
Add:
- 4 cups broth
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 2 cups water
Stir and bring to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Add Pasta
Break 8 lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces.
Add to the pot and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until noodles are tender.
Tip: Stir gently to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Make It Creamy
Reduce heat and stir in:
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
Mix until melted and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle into bowls and garnish with:
- Fresh basil or parsley
Pro Tip: Add a scoop of ricotta cheese on top for that true lasagna flavor.
Yields:
- 6 servings
Serving Suggestions
Perfect for:
- Cozy weeknight dinners
- Family gatherings
- Meal prep lunches
- Cold-weather comfort
Pair with:
- Garlic bread or focaccia
- Caesar salad or roasted vegetables
- Red wine or sparkling water
Tip: Serve with extra Parmesan on the side.
Variations to Try
Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:
Roasted Garlic & Spinach
Add sautéed spinach and roasted garlic for extra flavor.
Triple Cheese
Use a blend of mozzarella, provolone, and ricotta.
Vegetarian Version
Use plant-based meat and veggie broth.
Spicy Kick
Add diced jalapeños or spicy sausage.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Make-Ahead: Prepare up to 2 days in advance.
- Refrigerate: Store in airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently.
Tip: Add a splash of broth when reheating to restore consistency.
Nutrition Notes (Per Serving, ~1 of 6)
- Calories: ~420
- Protein: ~25g
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
- Fat: ~24g
- Sugar: ~6g
- Sodium: ~700mg
- Fiber: ~3g
This soup is:
- Rich and cheesy
- Hearty and satisfying
- Perfectly portioned
- Great for sharing
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Lasagna Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself, it’s guaranteed to impress and satisfy. With its bold flavors, creamy texture, and easy prep, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again.