Lasagna Soup

This Lasagna Soup is the ultimate comfort dish, bringing all the beloved flavors of traditional lasagna into a cozy, one-pot meal. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this hearty soup is both satisfying and easy to prepare. It combines rich tomato sauce, tender pasta, and savory ground beef, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This lasagna soup can be made in under an hour, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
• One-Pot Wonder: All ingredients cook together in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze after your delicious meal.
• Flavorful Comfort: Each spoonful delivers the nostalgic flavors of classic lasagna, ensuring your family will love it.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the soup with your choice of toppings and pasta types for a unique experience every time.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, perfect for busy weeknights or future lunches.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious lasagna soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 4.5-quart soup pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• 4.5-quart soup pot: This size is perfect for making large batches of soup while allowing all ingredients to simmer evenly.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface and ensuring even cooking.

Ingredients

This delicious and comforting lasagna soup is an easy, one-pot meal that captures all the flavors of classic lasagna with less effort. It’s hearty, saucy, and perfect for family dinners.

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 (do not drain)
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce or tomato puree
• 3 ounces tomato paste (about ¼ cup)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1-2 cups water (or more as needed to adjust consistency)
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon sea salt (or more to taste)
• Black pepper, to taste
• 8 ounces bowtie pasta (uncooked; see notes for substitutions)

For Garnish

• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• 2 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded (about ½ cup)
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, shaved, shredded, or grated
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

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How to Make Lasagna Soup

Step 1: Heat the Pot

Heat a 4.5-quart soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and wait until it shimmers.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Add the ground beef along with the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the beef is cooked through. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce or puree, tomato paste, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, sea salt, black pepper, and uncooked pasta.

Step 4: Bring to a Boil

Increase the heat to high and bring the soup mixture to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Once boiling, reduce heat to medium. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes while stirring frequently. This prevents pasta from sticking together until cooked to your liking.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency

Check your soup’s consistency. If needed, add more water or broth until you achieve your desired thickness.

Step 7: Serve with Toppings

Serve hot with toppings of your choice! You can either mix ricotta cheese into the entire pot or serve on the side along with mozzarella and Parmesan garnished with fresh parsley.

How to Serve Lasagna Soup

Lasagna soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Here are some delightful ways to serve this delicious meal.

With Cheese Blends

• Ricotta Cheese: Stir in creamy ricotta for a rich texture that mirrors traditional lasagna.
• Mozzarella: Top each bowl with melted mozzarella for a gooey finish.
• Parmesan: Sprinkle shaved or grated Parmesan for a salty, nutty kick.

Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Add fresh parsley on top for a bright flavor and beautiful presentation.
• Basil Leaves: Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch.

Bread Choices

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a classic Italian pairing.
• Crusty Baguette: A slice of crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the hearty soup.

How to Perfect Lasagna Soup

Perfecting your lasagna soup can enhance its flavors and textures. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh vegetables, high-quality meat, and good canned tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Start with the recommended amounts of salt and pepper, then taste and adjust as needed.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Since the pasta continues to cook after being added, stop cooking when it’s slightly firm to the bite.
• Thicken the Broth: For a thicker broth, consider using crushed tomatoes instead of diced tomatoes or add less water.
• Customize Proteins: Try using ground turkey or Italian sausage for different flavor profiles in your soup.

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Best Side Dishes for Lasagna Soup

Pairing side dishes with your lasagna soup can create a complete meal experience. Here are some excellent choices.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, perfect for sopping up the rich broth.
2. Caesar Salad: A refreshing salad with crunchy romaine, creamy dressing, and croutons complements the hearty soup well.
3. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a light contrast.
4. Italian Antipasto Platter: Include assorted meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables for a flavorful appetizer.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs make a savory addition to your meal.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and nutrients to your dinner table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making lasagna soup can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Using the wrong pasta: Not all pasta holds up well in soup. Choose sturdy types like bowtie or penne.
• Not adjusting consistency: If your soup is too thick, don’t hesitate to add more broth or water for a better texture.
• Ignoring seasoning: Lasagna soup needs flavor! Don’t skimp on Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to enhance taste.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can lead to mushiness. Keep an eye on it during simmering.
• Skipping the toppings: Toppings like ricotta and mozzarella add creaminess and richness. Don’t skip them for a better experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before sealing it.

Freezing Lasagna Soup

• Use a freezer-safe container for storage.
• It can last up to 90 days (or longer if vacuum sealed).

Reheating Lasagna Soup

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer portions to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low in a saucepan, stirring occasionally and adding broth as necessary.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lasagna Soup?

Lasagna soup is a comforting dish that combines traditional lasagna flavors in a hearty soup form. It’s easy to make and offers all the delicious layers of lasagna in one pot.

Can I make Lasagna Soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare lasagna soup ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat it when you’re ready to enjoy.

How do I customize my Lasagna Soup?

You can customize your lasagna soup by adding different proteins like ground turkey or Italian sausage. You can also adjust toppings based on your preferences.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This lasagna soup holds up well in storage, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Can I make Lasagna Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef with vegetables or plant-based protein for a delicious vegetarian version of lasagna soup.

Final Thoughts

This Lasagna Soup is not only delicious but also versatile enough to fit any family’s taste. With its rich flavors and customizable ingredients, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Try making it your own by experimenting with different toppings or ingredients!

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