Lasagna Soup

If you’re looking for a heartwarming dish that brings the family together, then Lasagna Soup is just what you need! This recipe captures all the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna but in a cozy, soup form. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, it’s easy to whip up and even easier to enjoy. Imagine gathering around a warm bowl of this delicious soup, laughter filling the air as everyone digs in. It’s a dish that feels like a hug on a chilly day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Lasagna Soup comes together in just 45 minutes, making it a breeze to prepare even on the busiest nights.
• Family-Friendly: With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can easily prepare this soup ahead of time and reheat it for a quick meal during the week.
• Versatile Ingredients: The ingredients are simple and wholesome, allowing you to customize the recipe based on what you have at home.
• Deliciously Satisfying: Each bowl is packed with flavor, offering all the goodness of lasagna without the fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that this Lasagna Soup uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are probably already in your pantry. Gather these essentials, and you’ll be ready to create something truly special!

For the Soup Base

• 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 Pasta and Toppings

• 8 ounces Bowtie Pasta (uncooked) (see footnote)
• 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 parts about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some chopped spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make it cheesy: For more cheesy goodness, stir in additional ricotta or mozzarella at serving time.
• Spice it up: If you enjoy heat, add red pepper flakes while cooking for an extra kick!

How to Make Lasagna Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until they become translucent. This step is key because it draws out their natural sweetness. Then add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks until browned all over. Browning adds depth of flavor to your soup, so don’t rush this part!

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, tomato paste, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. The combination of these ingredients will create a rich base that tastes just like lasagna.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Once your soup is simmering beautifully, add the uncooked bowtie pasta. Depending on how thick you want your soup, adjust with water. Cook until al dente according to pasta package directions.

Step 5: Serve with Toppings

Ladle hot soup into bowls and top with dollops of ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, shaved parmesan, and chopped parsley. This finishing touch makes each bowl look inviting and adds layers of flavor that everyone will love! Enjoy every warm sip!

Pro Tips for Making Lasagna Soup

Making lasagna soup is a breeze, and with these pro tips, you can elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance the flavor profile of your soup. Whenever possible, choose fresh over dried for a more vibrant taste.

• Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of water added. Conversely, if you like it lighter, feel free to add more water or broth. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish to your liking.

• Experiment with Pasta Shapes: While bowtie pasta works beautifully, don’t hesitate to try other shapes like fusilli or shells. Each shape carries sauce differently, adding a new texture experience.

• Make It Ahead of Time: Lasagna soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for an easy meal later on!

• Top with Extra Cheese: For an indulgent touch, sprinkle additional mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top before serving. It melts beautifully and adds that cheesy goodness we all love!

How to Serve Lasagna Soup

Presenting your lasagna soup can turn a simple meal into a delightful dining experience! Here are some creative ways to serve it.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A few leaves of fresh basil add a burst of color and aromatic flavor that complements the soup perfectly.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top for an extra kick.
• Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing twist to each spoonful.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: This classic side pairs wonderfully with lasagna soup. The buttery, crispy bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious broth.
• Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad provides a nice crunch and contrast to the warm soup. The creamy dressing and crisp romaine make it a satisfying accompaniment.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and nutrition to your meal. Their natural sweetness enhances the overall flavor.
• Cheesy Garlic Knots: These soft knots are bursting with garlic flavor and cheese. They make for an irresistible side that complements your lasagna soup beautifully.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re ready to impress your family and friends with a comforting bowl of lasagna soup! Enjoy every cozy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This lasagna soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy it all week long or save some for those busy days when cooking feels like a chore. You can easily store leftovers or prepare it in advance for convenience.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label your containers with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• You can also microwave individual servings, covering with a microwave-safe lid to avoid splatters.

FAQs

If you have any questions about making this delicious lasagna soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

Can I make lasagna soup ahead of time?

Yes! This lasagna soup is great for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to enjoy.

What if I want to customize my lasagna soup?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or swap out pasta shapes according to your preference. The beauty of lasagna soup is its versatility!

How do I make lasagna soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of lasagna soup, simply replace ground beef with lentils or your favorite meat substitute. Adjust seasonings as needed.

What should I serve with lasagna soup?

This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or even some crusty Italian rolls.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this lasagna soup recipe as comforting and delightful as I do! It’s such a warm hug in a bowl that brings family together around the dinner table. Enjoy making it and feel free to experiment with different ingredients. I can’t wait for you to try this cozy dish—happy cooking!