Lasagna Soup: A Comforting Twist on a Classic Favorite

Lasagna soup captures all the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna in a warm, hearty bowl. Layers of savory meat, rich tomato sauce, fragrant herbs, creamy cheeses, and tender noodles come together in a way that’s simpler and faster than assembling a lasagna but just as satisfying. This soup is a perfect choice for chilly evenings, family dinners, or anytime you crave the taste of lasagna without the effort.

Imagine a steamy bowl of soup topped with melted mozzarella, creamy ricotta, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, paired with crusty garlic bread for dipping. It’s a one-pot wonder that delivers the nostalgia of a beloved Italian dish in every bite.

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Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Ground beef or Italian sausage	1 lb
Olive oil	2 tbsp
Yellow onion (diced)	1 medium
Garlic (minced)	4 cloves
Crushed tomatoes	1 can (28 oz)
Tomato paste	2 tbsp
Chicken or beef broth	6 cups
Dried lasagna noodles (broken)	8 oz
Italian seasoning	2 tsp
Red pepper flakes (optional)	½ tsp
Salt	To taste
Black pepper	To taste
Ricotta cheese	¾ cup
Shredded mozzarella cheese	1 cup
Grated Parmesan cheese	½ cup
Fresh basil (chopped)	For garnish

Notes:

• Substitutions: Use ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
• Noodles: Regular pasta shapes like bowties or penne can be used if lasagna noodles aren’t available.

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Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven: For cooking the soup evenly and retaining heat.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For breaking up meat and stirring ingredients.
• Ladle: Makes serving easier and mess-free.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation

1. Prepare the ingredients: Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and break the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces (about 2 inches).

Cooking the Soup

2. Cook the meat: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef or Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
3. Sauté aromatics: Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
4. Build the base: Mix in tomato paste, cooking for 1-2 minutes to deepen its flavor. Add crushed tomatoes, broth, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Simmer and add noodles: Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Add the broken lasagna noodles and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the noodles are tender.

Finishing Touches

6. Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
7. Prepare cheese topping: In a small bowl, mix ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve the lasagna soup hot, ladled into bowls and topped with a generous dollop of ricotta cheese. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan on top, letting the heat of the soup melt the cheeses into a creamy, gooey layer. Garnish with freshly chopped basil for a burst of color and flavor.

Pair the soup with thick slices of garlic bread or a side of toasted baguette to scoop up every last bit of broth and cheese. For a complete meal, add a crisp Caesar salad on the side.

For an extra touch, drizzle a bit of olive oil or balsamic glaze over the soup before serving. This elevates the dish, making it perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.

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Pairings

Lasagna soup’s rich, hearty flavors pair beautifully with beverages that complement its robust, savory profile.

• Wines:
  • Chianti: The bright acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese and broth.
  • Merlot: Smooth and fruity, it pairs seamlessly with the tomato-based soup.
  • Zinfandel: Its bold flavors complement the savory meat and spices.
• Non-Alcoholic Options:
  • Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing choice to balance the soup’s richness.
  • Iced Tea: Lightly sweetened tea pairs well with the savory components.
  • Homemade Lemonade: The tartness adds a refreshing contrast to the dish.
• Cocktails:
  • Aperol Spritz: The slightly bitter, citrusy drink provides a pleasant contrast to the soup’s depth.
  • Bloody Mary: Its tomato base and spice echo the flavors of the dish, creating a harmonious pairing.

Whether paired with wine, tea, or a light cocktail, lasagna soup becomes the centerpiece of a memorable meal.

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze soup (without the noodles) for up to 2 months. Cook and add fresh noodles when reheating to avoid mushiness.
• Reheating: Warm the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if it thickened in storage.

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Nutritional Information

Per Serving (Approx. 6 Servings)	Amount
Calories	350
Fat	18g
Carbohydrates	25g
Protein	24g
Allergens	Dairy, Gluten

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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Conclusion

Lasagna soup is the perfect way to enjoy all the flavors of classic lasagna with half the effort. Its cozy, comforting vibes make it a family favorite, while the customizable toppings and garnishes let everyone make it their own. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your creations with us. We’d love to see how you make this recipe your own!

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