Lasagna Soup

Savor the delicious flavors of traditional lasagna in this comforting and easy-to-make Lasagna Soup recipe. Featuring tender lasagna noodles, a rich tomato broth, and hearty ground beef and sausage, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Garnished with creamy ricotta, melted mozzarella, and fresh parsley, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s customizable to fit your taste. Whether you’re looking for a one-pot meal, a gluten-free option, or an easy way to enjoy lasagna without the layering, this recipe has you covered.

Ingredients

• Soup Base:
  • ½ pound ground beef
  • ½ pound sweet Italian sausage
  • 1 yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional but recommended)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes
  • 5 cups chicken broth
  • 14.5 oz. crushed tomatoes
  • 14.5 oz. diced tomatoes (undrained)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 6 lasagna noodles
• For Serving:
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (preferably from a block)
  • 8 oz. ricotta cheese
  • Fresh parsley, roughly chopped

Instructions

1. Cook the Meat and Onions:
   • In a large soup pot (4-quart capacity), cook and crumble the ground beef and sausage over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions halfway through cooking and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Drain any excess grease. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
2. Build the Flavor Base:
   • Stir in the tomato paste, oregano, basil, sugar, hot sauce, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to combine, ensuring the spices and tomato paste coat the meat evenly.
3. Add the Liquids and Tomatoes:
   • Pour in the chicken broth, using a silicone spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for added flavor. Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and the bay leaf. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
4. Optional Flavor Boost:
   • If you have a Parmesan rind, add it to the soup during the simmering process for extra richness.
5. Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
   • While the soup simmers, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Break the lasagna noodles in half and cook according to package instructions. Drain and cut them into smaller strips.
   • Add the cooked noodles to the soup just before serving. Alternatively, for leftovers, keep the noodles separate and add them freshly cooked to each bowl to avoid sogginess.
6. Final Touches:
   • Remove the bay leaf from the soup. Ladle the soup into serving bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, a dollop of ricotta, and a sprinkle of chopped parsley.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Pair with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food at Its Best: Combines all the flavors of lasagna into a warm, hearty soup.
• Quick and Easy: Less effort than making traditional lasagna but just as satisfying.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

Tips

• Avoid Soggy Noodles: Cook noodles separately and add them to individual bowls for leftovers.
• Parmesan Rind: Simmering a Parmesan rind adds depth and richness to the soup.
• Taste and Adjust: Season the soup after simmering to ensure balanced flavors.
• High-Quality Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan and block mozzarella for the best texture and taste.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Options: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef and sausage.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the meat and add diced zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles or pasta.
• Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or cayenne for more heat.

FAQs

Can I freeze lasagna soup?

• Yes! Freeze the soup base without the noodles. When ready to serve, thaw, reheat, and add freshly cooked noodles.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

• Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to adjust the consistency.

Can I use other pasta shapes?

• Absolutely! Penne, bowtie, or even broken spaghetti can work as substitutes for lasagna noodles.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with cheesy garlic bread or focaccia for dipping.
• Serve alongside a crisp Caesar salad for a balanced meal.
• Add a glass of red wine for a cozy dinner experience.

Suggestions

• Double the recipe for meal prep or to feed a crowd.
• Garnish with extra parsley and a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
• Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a hearty, wholesome meal.