There’s something incredibly heartwarming about a big pot of lasagna soup simmering on the stove. It’s like a cozy hug on a chilly evening, bringing together the beloved flavors of traditional lasagna but in a comforting, easy-to-manage soup form. Trust me, once you take your first spoonful, you’ll be hooked! The rich, meaty broth mingles beautifully with the tender pasta and creamy ricotta, creating a delightful combination that warms you from the inside out.
And the best part? It’s a breeze to prepare! With just a few simple ingredients and one pot, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or even as a comforting meal to share with family and friends. Plus, you can easily adjust it to suit your dietary needs or preferences, making it as versatile as it is delicious. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your favorite pot, and let’s dive into this wonderful lasagna soup experience together!
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this comforting lasagna soup. I’ve made sure to include clear descriptions so you know exactly what to grab. Let’s get cooking!
- 1 pound ground beef – This is the heart of your soup, providing that rich flavor. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option if you prefer.
- 1 onion, chopped – A medium onion works beautifully, adding sweetness and depth to the soup.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic really elevates the flavor, so don’t skimp on this one!
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes – These are the base of the broth, giving the soup that lovely, tomatoey goodness.
- 4 cups beef broth – This adds richness and depth. Feel free to use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
- 2 cups uncooked pasta – I love using small pasta shapes like shells or elbow macaroni, but you can choose your favorite type!
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning – This blend of herbs really ties everything together. You can even make your own mix if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Salt to taste – Be sure to taste as you go; you can always add more, but it’s hard to take it out!
- Black pepper to taste – A little fresh ground pepper brings out all those delicious flavors.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese – This is what gives your soup that creamy texture and delightful richness.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – For that melty, cheesy topping! You can sprinkle it on just before serving.
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional) – If you have some on hand, it adds a lovely touch of freshness at the end.
How to Prepare Lasagna Soup
Now, let’s get to the fun part—making your delicious lasagna soup! I promise it’s easier than you might think, and I’ll guide you through each step. Just take your time, and remember to enjoy the delicious aromas that will fill your kitchen as you cook.
Step 1: Brown the Meat
First things first, grab your large pot and place it over medium heat. Add the 1 pound of ground beef and let it sizzle away. You’ll want to break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Keep an eye on it until it turns a nice golden brown. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Once it’s browned, carefully drain any excess fat. This keeps your soup lighter and healthier. Just tilt the pot slightly and use a ladle or spoon to scoop it out. Oops—be careful! Don’t let any meat slip out!
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. You’ll want to cook these for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Stir it occasionally—this step really enhances the flavor of your soup, making it super aromatic and comforting.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, uncooked pasta, and your Italian seasoning. Remember, you can adjust the seasoning to your taste. Also, don’t forget to sprinkle in some salt and black pepper. Once everything is in the pot, give it a good stir to make sure all those flavors intermingle beautifully. You want to see everything combined nicely!
Step 4: Simmer
Bring your soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. This step is key! Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent any sticking—trust me, you don’t want a mess at the bottom of your pot. You can taste it along the way and adjust the seasoning if needed!
Step 5: Add Cheese
Once your pasta is tender, it’s time to make this soup creamy and dreamy! Stir in the ricotta cheese until it melts and becomes wonderfully blended throughout the soup. This adds such a lovely richness, making each spoonful feel indulgent. Keep stirring until it’s nicely incorporated.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Now for the best part—serving it up! Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle on that shredded mozzarella cheese for that glorious melty topping. If you’ve got some fresh basil, toss a few leaves on top for a pop of freshness. Sit back, take a moment to appreciate your hard work, and enjoy every comforting bite of this delightful lasagna soup!
Nutritional Information
Let’s take a moment to appreciate the nutritional goodness packed in each bowl of this lasagna soup! Here are the typical values per serving, which is about one bowl:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Sugar: 6g
These values are estimates based on the specific ingredients used, so keep in mind that variations might occur based on your choices. For instance, if you opt for ground turkey or a different type of pasta, the nutritional content will adjust slightly. It’s always a good idea to consider your dietary needs while enjoying this comforting soup!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to make: This lasagna soup comes together in just about 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
- Comforting flavor: It combines all the beloved tastes of traditional lasagna in a cozy, warm soup that’s sure to please everyone.
- Adaptable for dietary needs: You can easily swap ingredients to suit your preferences, whether you want a vegetarian option or a lighter protein.
- Perfect for cozy evenings: There’s nothing like a bowl of this hearty soup to warm you up on a chilly night, making it an ideal comfort food.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish! It’s a great way to get everyone to enjoy a nutritious meal together.
Tips for Success
Here are some handy tips to ensure your lasagna soup turns out absolutely perfect every time. I want you to feel confident in your cooking, so let’s get started!
- Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh vegetables and herbs. Fresh garlic and onions will elevate the flavor of your soup tremendously!
- Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a bit of heat, feel free to add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. Taste as you go to find that perfect balance!
- Make it ahead: This soup is even better the next day! If you have a busy schedule, consider making a big batch on the weekend. Just reheat it gently on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy.
- Watch your pasta: Since pasta can absorb liquid, if you expect leftovers, you might want to cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving. This way, your soup won’t get too thick.
- Experiment with flavors: Don’t hesitate to add in your favorite vegetables! Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can add extra nutrition and flavor, making your soup even heartier.
- Store it right: If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to keep the cheese separate until you’re ready to serve.
- Garnish generously: A sprinkle of fresh basil or a dollop of extra ricotta on top before serving adds a lovely touch. It not only looks beautiful but also enhances the flavor!
With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this delicious lasagna soup. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about this lasagna soup is how adaptable it is! You can switch things up based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Here are some fun and delicious variations to consider:
- Protein swaps: Instead of ground beef, try using ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile. If you want to keep it vegetarian, consider using lentils or diced mushrooms for a hearty alternative.
- Vegetable boost: Add some extra nutrition by tossing in vegetables like chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. You can sauté them along with the onions and garlic for a lovely flavor boost!
- Gluten-free option: If you need to avoid gluten, simply use gluten-free pasta. It’ll work just as well and still provide that comforting texture.
- Herb variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs! Fresh thyme or oregano can add a lovely twist to the traditional Italian flavor. You could even throw in a bay leaf while simmering for an aromatic touch.
- Cheese changes: While ricotta and mozzarella are classic choices, you can also mix in some creamy goat cheese or even a sharp cheddar for a unique flavor. Just be sure to adjust the amounts based on your taste preferences!
- Spicy kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when cooking the onions and garlic. This will give your soup a delightful kick that many will love!
With these variations, you can make this lasagna soup your own each time you whip it up. It’s all about being creative and having fun in the kitchen, so don’t hesitate to try different combinations until you find your perfect bowl!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Let’s talk about how to properly store and reheat your delicious lasagna soup, so you can enjoy those comforting flavors even after the first serving. Trust me, this soup is just as tasty the next day, and with a few simple steps, you can keep it fresh!
First, once your soup has cooled down a bit, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up; this prevents condensation, which can affect the soup’s texture. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze the soup! Just portion it out into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Make sure to leave a little space at the top of the container or bag, as the soup will expand as it freezes. It should be good for about 2 to 3 months in the freezer. Just label it with the date, so you know when it was made!
When it’s time to reheat, if you’re using the refrigerator, simply take the container out and warm it on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally, and be sure to check that it heats through evenly. If the soup seems a little thick after refrigeration, don’t hesitate to add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
For frozen soup, it’s best to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. If you’re in a rush, you can run the sealed bag under cold water for a quicker thaw. Once thawed, follow the same stovetop method to reheat. You can also use the microwave if you prefer—just heat in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure it heats evenly.
And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor your lovely lasagna soup again without compromising on flavor or texture. Enjoy!
Equipment List
Before we dive into making this delicious lasagna soup, let’s gather our kitchen tools! Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Large pot: A sturdy pot is essential for cooking the soup. It should be big enough to hold all those wonderful ingredients!
- Wooden spoon: This is perfect for stirring everything together. I love using a wooden spoon because it’s gentle on the pot and won’t scratch the surface.
- Measuring cups: You’ll need these for accurate measurements of broth, pasta, and cheese. Precision helps ensure the flavors come together beautifully!
- Measuring spoons: These will come in handy for measuring out seasonings like Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cutting board: A solid cutting board is essential for chopping your onion and mincing the garlic. It makes prep work much easier!
- Knife: A sharp knife is necessary for chopping and mincing. It’s important to have a good one to make your prep quick and efficient.
- Serving bowls: Once your soup is ready, you’ll want some nice bowls to serve it in. Choose your favorites to make mealtime special!
- Ladle: A ladle is perfect for serving up the soup. It helps you portion out just the right amount without making a mess.
With these tools in hand, you’ll be all set to create your comforting lasagna soup. Happy cooking!
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Comforting Lasagna Soup: 5 Simple Steps to Bliss
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A comforting and hearty lasagna soup that combines the flavors of traditional lasagna with the ease of a soup. Perfect for cozy evenings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups uncooked pasta
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until softened.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, uncooked pasta, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until pasta is cooked.
- Stir in the ricotta cheese until melted and well combined.
- Serve hot, topped with mozzarella cheese and fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- You can use ground turkey or chicken as a healthier alternative.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute beef with lentils or mushrooms.
- Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
- Add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: lasagna soup, easy soup recipe, comforting soup