This Lasagna Soup delivers all the comforting flavors of classic lasagna in a fraction of the time. Packed with ground beef, sausage, and a delightful cheese blend, it’s an ideal choice for chilly evenings.
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No layering required, yet still packed with lasagna flavor.
- Perfect balance of protein, greens, and carbs in one bowl.
- Customizable with your choice of broth and greens.
- Rich taste achieved with three types of cheese.
Ingredients
- 1/2 pound lean ground beef: Provides a hearty base. Substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option.
- 1/2 pound ground Italian sausage: Adds depth and flavor. Sweet or spicy sausage works well.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- 1 yellow onion, chopped: Forms the aromatic base of the soup.
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing the onions. Canola oil is an alternative.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the aromatic flavor profile.
- 2 Tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor; ketchup can be a mild substitute.
- 1 recipe homemade marinara sauce (or 24 ounces marinara sauce): Forms the soup’s flavorful base.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds a touch of heat; optional based on spice preference.
- 2 Tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 2 tsp dried): For freshness and color.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic Italian seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Complements the tomato-based broth.
- 7 cups low sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth): Serves as the soup’s base. Vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- 9 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces: Mimics the lasagna pasta texture within the soup.
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, optional: Adds nutrients and vibrant color.
- 10 ounces ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese): Contributes creaminess to the soup.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts deliciously into the hot soup.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Adds sharpness and depth.
- Fresh basil, for serving: Use as a garnish to elevate freshness.
How to Make It
Step 1: Cook the Meat
In a large pot over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef and sausage. Season it lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper as it cooks. Once browned, drain the excess fat and set the meat aside—you’ll be returning it to the pot shortly.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Add olive oil to the same pot over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, releasing a wonderful aroma.
Step 3: Create the Soup Base
Mix in the tomato paste, then add the marinara sauce, red pepper flakes, fresh parsley, oregano, basil, and broth. Return the cooked meat back to the pot, ensuring all flavors merge harmoniously.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
Bring the soup to a boil. Add broken lasagna noodles and reduce heat to medium-low. Let them cook, stirring occasionally, until tender. Stir in fresh spinach leaves if desired for an extra nutritional boost.
Step 5: Serve with Cheese
In a small bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, topping each with a generous scoop of the cheese mixture. Garnish with delicate basil leaves for fresh aroma and a pop of color.
Recipe FAQs
Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the soup base in advance. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to cook and add the noodles just before serving.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
If you’re not a fan of ricotta, cottage cheese is an excellent substitute that maintains the creamy texture.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, replace the ground meats with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
