Lasagna Soup

Warm up your kitchen with this lasagna soup recipe, a soul-soothing twist on the classic Italian dish. Imagine all the rich, cheesy, saucy goodness of lasagna packed into a steaming bowl of soup.

Perfect for chilly nights or busy weeknights, this recipe delivers bold flavors and cozy vibes in under an hour. It’s versatile, crowd-pleasing, and easy to customize, making it a must-try for pasta lovers and comfort food enthusiasts alike.

Recipe Overview

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This lasagna soup bursts with savory tomato broth, tender noodles, and melty cheese. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s quick to prep, budget-friendly, and perfect for feeding a family or meal prepping for the week. The robust flavors of Italian sausage, garlic, and herbs mingle with creamy ricotta dollops, creating a cozy, spoonable version of lasagna that’s as satisfying as the original.

Ingredients List

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference; adds bold, meaty depth)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing; enhances flavor)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced (sweetness balances the acidity)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh for pungent aroma)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste (deepens the tomato flavor)
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes (rich base for the broth)
• 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium; keeps the soup light yet flavorful)
• 2 cups water (thins the broth slightly)
• 1 tsp dried oregano (earthy, classic Italian flavor)
• 1 tsp dried basil (complements the tomatoes)
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional; for a subtle kick)
• 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces (use fresh or no-boil for tender texture)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese (creamy, tangy topping)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (nutty, salty finish)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (melty, gooey goodness)
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (adds color and nutrition)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste (season thoughtfully)
• Fresh basil, chopped (for vibrant garnish)

Note: Use fresh garlic and herbs for maximum flavor. Italian sausage can be swapped for ground beef or turkey, but sausage brings authentic lasagna taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

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1. Cook the sausage: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Add Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes. The sausage’s savory aroma will fill your kitchen. Drain excess fat for a lighter soup.
2. Sauté aromatics: Add diced onion to the pot. Cook until soft and translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. This builds a flavorful base. Image generation prompt: A close-up of diced onions and garlic sizzling in a pot with crumbled sausage, steam rising, and a wooden spoon stirring.
3. Add tomato paste and seasonings: Stir in tomato paste, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2 minutes to intensify the tomato flavor. The paste should turn a deep brick red.
4. Build the broth: Pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and water. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the pot’s bottom. These bits add umami depth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Cook the noodles: Add broken lasagna noodles to the simmering broth. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The noodles should be tender but not mushy.
6. Add greens: Stir in spinach or kale until wilted, about 1-2 minutes. This adds a fresh, vibrant touch.
7. Season and taste: Add salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasonings to balance the tangy tomatoes and savory sausage.
8. Prepare cheese topping: In a small bowl, mix ricotta, Parmesan, and a pinch of black pepper. This creamy blend mimics lasagna’s cheesy layers.
9. Serve: Ladle soup into bowls. Top each with a dollop of ricotta mixture, a sprinkle of mozzarella, and fresh basil. The cheese melts into the hot soup, creating creamy, gooey bites.

Preparation Time & Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Tips for Success

• Break lasagna noodles into small, bite-sized pieces for easy eating. Use a rolling pin in a ziplock bag for quick breaking.
• Don’t overcook the noodles; check them a minute before the package’s suggested time to keep them al dente.
• For a thicker soup, reduce the water to 1 cup or simmer longer to concentrate flavors.
• Use fresh spinach or kale for vibrant color and texture; frozen can become mushy.
• Taste and adjust seasoning before serving, as broth and tomatoes vary in saltiness.

Serving Suggestions

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Serve this lasagna soup with crusty garlic bread or a warm baguette to soak up the rich broth. Pair with a crisp Caesar salad for a complete Italian-inspired meal. For a fun twist, sprinkle extra mozzarella on top and broil briefly for a bubbly, golden finish. Present in deep bowls with a colorful napkin for a cozy, inviting look.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Let cool for no more than 2 hours before storing to prevent spoilage.
• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if thickened.
• Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Avoid freezing with the cheese topping; add fresh cheese when serving.

FAQs

Can I make this vegetarian?
Swap Italian sausage for plant-based meat or extra veggies like mushrooms and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully vegetarian dish.

Can I use gluten-free noodles?
Yes, gluten-free lasagna noodles work perfectly. Check cooking time, as they may cook faster than traditional noodles.

How do I make it less spicy?
Omit red pepper flakes and use mild Italian sausage. Taste and adjust seasonings to keep it flavorful.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown sausage and onions first, then add all ingredients except noodles and cheese to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours, adding noodles in the last 30 minutes.

What if my soup is too thick?
Add more broth or water, 1/4 cup at a time, until desired consistency is reached. Simmer briefly to blend flavors.

Conclusion

This lasagna soup is your ticket to cozy, hearty comfort in every spoonful. It’s a simple, flavorful dish that brings the essence of lasagna to your table with less effort. Try it, share it, and let the cheesy, tomatoey goodness warm your heart. Drop a comment or tag us with your creations—we can’t wait to see your bowls!