If you’ve ever found yourself craving a warm, comforting bowl of your favorite Italian dish but wanted something that’s easy to whip up on a weeknight, then let me introduce you to Lasagna Soup. The rich aroma of simmering tomatoes and garlic fills my kitchen like a warm hug during chilly evenings, creating a cozy atmosphere that instantly lifts my spirits.
Picture this: tender pieces of lasagna swimming in a hearty broth, complemented by creamy dollops of ricotta and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It’s the perfect solution for those nights when you want something hearty without having to fuss over layers of pasta. Plus, this one-pot wonder comes together in just 45 minutes—making it as ideal for a busy weekday as it is for a relaxed family dinner.
Join me as we dive into this easy-to-follow recipe, transforming classic lasagna flavors into a comforting soup that is sure to please everyone at the table, even those fast food lovers in your life.
Why You'll Love This Lasagna Soup
- This Lasagna Soup is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to enjoy all the rich flavors of traditional lasagna without the hassle of layering.
- The delightful combination of tomatoes, beef, and creamy ricotta creates a flavor that is simply irresistible and will have everyone coming back for more.
- Its versatility means you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences perfectly.
- Visually, the soup is a feast for the eyes with its vibrant colors and inviting presentation that will impress any guest.
Lasagna Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Ground beef – adds rich flavor; feel free to use turkey for a lighter option.
• Onion – diced, for a sweet, aromatic foundation that enhances the dish.
• Garlic – minced, brings out a fragrant essence to complement the tomatoes.
• Canned crushed tomatoes – the heart of the soup; opt for fire-roasted for extra depth.
• Beef broth – provides a robust base; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
• Lasagna sheets – broken into pieces for that classic lasagna texture in soup form.
For the Creamy Topping
• Ricotta cheese – creamy, smooth; substitute with cottage cheese if you prefer.
• Shredded Parmesan cheese – adds a salty kick; freshly grated will enhance the flavor.
Seasoning
• Salt and pepper – to taste; essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
• Olive oil – for sautéing; can be replaced with butter for a different richness.
This Lasagna Soup is a comforting bowl of goodness, perfect for warming up those chilly evenings!
How to Make Lasagna Soup
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Heat Olive Oil: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes, then add the minced garlic, cooking until fragrant.
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Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until it’s thoroughly browned, ensuring there are no clumps remaining for a smooth texture.
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Stir in Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, then season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing those robust flavors to meld together.
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Add Lasagna Sheets: Toss in the broken lasagna sheets, stirring them into the broth. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 10 minutes, until they are al dente and perfectly tender.
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Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the shredded Parmesan and add freshly cracked black pepper for an extra kick of flavor.
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Serve and Garnish: Dish the soup into bowls, generously topping each serving with spoonfuls of the creamy ricotta mixture. For a fresh twist, garnish with basil if desired.
Optional: Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy delight!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Lasagna Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own, adding twists that excite your palate!
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Vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a medley of your favorite vegetables for a hearty, meatless option. This creates a comforting bowl without sacrificing flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the cooking process for a delightful heat that complements the acidity of the tomatoes. A little spice can elevate the whole experience!
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Creamy Dream: Incorporate a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half into the soup base just before serving for an extra creamy mouthfeel that feels luxurious and indulgent.
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Gluten-Free: Swap traditional lasagna sheets with gluten-free pasta or omit them altogether and serve over a bed of spinach or zoodles for a light, gluten-free twist. This keeps the essence while accommodating dietary needs.
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Cheesy Bliss: Mix in additional cheeses like mozzarella or fontina into your ricotta mixture for a deliciously cheesy topping that’s irresistible to cheese lovers. This adds an extra layer of gooey goodness.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment by tossing in fresh or dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or even a bay leaf during cooking to infuse the soup with delightful aromatic flavors. Fresh herbs can brighten everything up!
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Adding Beans: Throw in a can of drained and rinsed beans, like cannellini or kidney beans, for added protein and a unique texture. This not only ups nutrition but also creates a more filling dish.
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Zesty Tomato: Use sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers mixed into the soup base for a sweet and tangy flavor burst, enhancing the overall profile of your lasagna experience.
Whatever variation you choose, this Lasagna Soup is sure to bring joy and warmth to your dinner table!
What to Serve with Lasagna Soup with Ricotta?
To create a delightful meal that complements the warm, comforting notes of lasagna soup, consider these scrumptious pairings.
- Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery texture of garlic bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of the soup.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons offer a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup, brightening your meal.
For a classic finish to your Italian-inspired feast, consider serving a fruity Tiramisu to cleanse the palate with its creamy mascarpone and espresso layers.
- Zucchini Noodles: Light and fresh, they add a lovely crunch and are a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional side dishes.
- Italian Sausage: Grilling or pan-searing some spicy Italian sausage will enhance the flavors of your soup, highlighting the rich, meaty goodness.
Lastly, don’t forget about wine! A glass of Chianti perfectly balances the rich flavors of the lasagna soup, making for a complete dining experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Lasagna Soup preparations are perfect for busy cooks! You can brown the ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic up to 3 days in advance. Simply refrigerate the mixture in an airtight container. You can also prepare the ricotta and Parmesan topping ahead of time, keeping it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When it’s time to enjoy your Lasagna Soup, just reheat the beef mixture, add the crushed tomatoes and broth, then toss in the broken lasagna sheets and cook according to package instructions. This way, you’ll have a comforting meal on the table in no time, just as flavorful and delicious as if you made everything fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Lasagna Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Lasagna Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Freezer: Freeze soup in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Reheating: When reheating, stir to ensure even heating and consider adding fresh herbs or extra cheese for a delightful flavor boost.
Separation Tip: Expect some separation of ingredients during storage; simply stir the soup before serving to mix everything back together.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Lasagna Soup, ensure to finely dice your onion for a more uniform texture and even cooking throughout.
- A common mistake is overcooking the lasagna sheets, so aim for al dente to keep them from becoming mushy in the soup.
- To enhance the flavors, consider using fire-roasted canned tomatoes for a deeper taste profile.
- Remember to let the soup simmer gently to allow all the ingredients to meld perfectly, usually around 10-15 minutes.
Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Recipe FAQs
How can I tell if my tomatoes are ripe enough to use?
Absolutely! When selecting your canned crushed tomatoes, look for those with vibrant red color and minimal visible blemishes on the label. If using fresh tomatoes, they should be slightly firm yet yield to gentle pressure, indicating ripeness. Avoid any that have dark spots all over, as this suggests overripeness.
How should I store leftover Lasagna Soup?
For sure! Store any leftover Lasagna Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to reheat it gently on the stove over low heat. If it seems too thick after storing, add a little beef broth or water to help restore its original consistency.
Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! To freeze your Lasagna Soup, pour it into individual portions in freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then heat on the stove until warmed through.
What should I do if my lasagna noodles become mushy during cooking?
Very good question! The key to preventing mushy noodles is to keep an eye on the cooking time. Cook the broken lasagna sheets according to the package instructions, aiming for al dente, which typically takes about 10 minutes. If you find they are already mushy, unfortunately, they may simply be overcooked. For next time, you can slightly undercook them, as they will continue to absorb some liquid while stored.
Are there any dietary considerations with Lasagna Soup?
Indeed! This Lasagna Soup contains gluten from the lasagna sheets and dairy from the ricotta and Parmesan. If you’re cooking for someone with gluten intolerance, feel free to substitute the traditional lasagna sheets with gluten-free options available in stores. For dairy-free needs, consider using plant-based ricotta and cheese alternatives to make it safe for those avoiding dairy.
How long can I keep the soup in the freezer, and will it change in texture?
Definitely! You can keep Lasagna Soup in the freezer for up to 3 months. Do note that when you thaw and reheat, some separation may occur due to the ricotta and beef broth, but just give it a good stir before serving to blend everything back together. For optimum flavor, I recommend adding fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese during reheating to revitalize the taste!
Lasagna Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 5 minutes, then add minced garlic.
- Add ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until thoroughly browned.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and beef broth, then season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Toss in broken lasagna sheets, stirring them into the broth. Cook according to package instructions, usually around 10 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese with shredded Parmesan and add freshly cracked black pepper.
- Dish the soup into bowls, generously topping each with the ricotta mixture. Garnish with basil if desired.
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