Lasagna Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that warms the soul, you’ve come to the right place! This Lasagna Soup is one of my all-time favorites. It combines the rich flavors of traditional lasagna with the ease of a cozy soup. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish brings everyone together with its delicious aroma and hearty goodness.

What makes this recipe so special is how simple it is to prepare. You can have a big pot bubbling away in just 45 minutes, filling your home with a delightful scent that will have everyone rushing to the table. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into making this fabulous Lasagna Soup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love slurping up this pasta-filled delight!
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy the meal with your loved ones.
• Customizable: Make it your own by adding favorite veggies or proteins!
• Leftover Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our wholesome ingredients! You’ll find everything you need for this Lasagna Soup right at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Soup

• 1-2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or preferred oil)
• 1 pound Ground Beef
• 1 large Onion (diced)
• 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 (15-ounce can) Diced Tomatoes (don’t drain)
• 1 (15-ounce can) Tomato Sauce (or tomato puree)
• 1/3 cup Tomato Paste (about half of a 6-ounce can)
• 4 cups Chicken Broth
• 1-2 cups Water (to adjust consistency)
• 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
• 1 teaspoon Sea Salt (or more as needed to adjust flavor)
• Black Pepper (to taste)

For the Toppings

• 8 ounces Bowtie Pasta (uncooked)
• 1/2 cup Ricotta Cheese
• 2 ounces Mozzarella Cheese (shredded, about 1/2 cup)
• 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (shaved, shredded, or fresh grated)
• 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped)

Variations

One of the best things about Lasagna Soup is how flexible it is! You can make this recipe suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or zucchini for an extra health boost.
• Make it cheesy: Add more cheese on top or mix in some cottage cheese for creaminess.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute traditional pasta with gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for everyone.

How to Make Lasagna Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add in the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. This step is key because cooking the onions releases their natural sweetness, which adds depth to our soup’s flavor.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This step ensures we have that savory base that every good soup needs!

Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Once the beef is cooked, stir in minced garlic and let it cook for about a minute until fragrant. Then add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. These ingredients create that rich sauce that makes Lasagna Soup so comforting.

Step 4: Pour in Broth and Seasonings

Now it’s time to pour in your chicken broth along with water if needed for consistency. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring everything to a gentle simmer—this allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

After about 10 minutes of simmering, toss in your uncooked bowtie pasta. Let it cook until al dente according to package instructions. The pasta soaks up all those lovely flavors while adding heartiness to our soup.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Once your pasta is ready, ladle out generous portions into bowls. Top each bowl with dollops of ricotta cheese and sprinkles of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

And there you have it—your warm bowl of Lasagna Soup ready to enjoy! Gather around the table and savor every last drop!

Pro Tips for Making Lasagna Soup

Making lasagna soup is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality canned tomatoes will enhance the flavors of your soup, making it taste homemade even if you’re short on time.
• Adjust the Consistency: Depending on your preference for a thicker or thinner soup, feel free to add more water or broth gradually. This way, you can customize the texture to suit your family’s tastes.
• Experiment with Pasta Shapes: While bowtie pasta is a great choice, don’t hesitate to try different shapes like fusilli or shells. Each shape offers a unique bite and holds onto the sauce beautifully.
• Make It Ahead of Time: This lasagna soup tastes even better the next day! Consider making a big batch and storing leftovers in the refrigerator for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Add Extra Veggies: Sneak in some chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. They’ll blend seamlessly into the soup without overpowering it.

How to Serve Lasagna Soup

Serving lasagna soup is an opportunity to get creative and make it visually appealing as well as delicious!

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves adds a fragrant touch that brightens up each bowl.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of garlic bread or a warm baguette on the side to soak up all that tasty broth.

Side Dishes

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing complements the richness of the soup perfectly.
• Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted seasonal vegetables tossed in olive oil and garlic provide a healthy contrast to the hearty soup.
• Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed bell peppers filled with rice and veggies make for a filling side that pairs wonderfully with lasagna soup.
• Cheesy Breadsticks: Warm, cheesy breadsticks are always a hit! Their soft texture complements the soup’s heartiness while providing an extra cheesy indulgence.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of lasagna soup with these serving suggestions that make every meal feel special!

Make Ahead and Storage

This lasagna soup recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week or save some for a quick dinner later. Here’s how to store it properly.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the lasagna soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• When storing, consider separating the pasta from the soup to avoid it becoming too soft.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the soup cool and then pour it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Leave about an inch of space at the top of containers to allow for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen lasagna soup overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• If reheating from frozen, simmer gently until hot, adding a splash of water if needed to adjust consistency.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious lasagna soup!

Can I customize my Lasagna Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. You can also swap out ground beef for turkey or a plant-based alternative.

How do I make Lasagna Soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of lasagna soup, simply replace the ground beef with lentils or your favorite meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth as well.

Can I use different types of pasta in Lasagna Soup?

Yes! While bowtie pasta works great, you can use any short pasta like penne or fusilli. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary.

How long does Lasagna Soup last in the fridge?

Your lasagna soup will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Remember to store it properly in an airtight container!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this comforting lasagna soup! It’s a wonderful way to bring family and friends together around the table, sharing warmth and laughter. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy every spoonful and feel free to share your experience!