Lasagna soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day, with layers of cheesy goodness swimming in a savory broth. Picture this: spoonfuls of tender pasta, zesty marinara, and gooey cheese melding together to create an experience that dances on your taste buds. It’s the ultimate comfort food that doesn’t just fill your belly; it fills your heart with warmth and nostalgia.
I remember the first time I made lasagna soup for my family. The moment the aroma wafted through our kitchen, my kids came running like they were tracking down an ice cream truck! This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or impromptu gatherings where everyone needs a delicious meal without much fuss. Get ready to dive into this flavor-packed bowl of joy!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Lasagna soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- Its rich flavor profile brings together savory meats, aromatic herbs, and creamy cheeses
- Visually appealing with vibrant colors, it’s sure to impress your guests
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with whatever ingredients you have on hand!
When I served lasagna soup at a family gathering last month, everyone’s faces lit up as they took their first bites—it was a hit!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a hearty base; it adds richness without being greasy.
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Pasta: Opt for small pasta shapes like shells or ditalini, which soak up the flavors beautifully.
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Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade sauce for that authentic Italian flavor.
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Onion: A sweet onion adds depth; sauté it until translucent to release its natural sugars.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential for that aromatic punch—never skimp on garlic!
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Cheese Blend: A mix of mozzarella and ricotta gives the perfect creamy texture and cheesy goodness.
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Italian Seasoning: Use a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme for classic Italian flavor.
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Chicken Broth: Provides the base liquid; low-sodium broth allows you better control over saltiness.
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Fresh Basil (optional): For garnish, fresh basil adds color and aroma—like a fancy restaurant touch!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat a large pot over medium heat and add some olive oil. Toss in chopped onions and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant—this should take about 3-4 minutes.
Add the Meat: Once your onions are golden and aromatic, add in the ground beef. Cook until browned through while breaking it apart with a wooden spoon—this should take about 5-7 minutes.
Pasta Time!: Pour in your chicken broth along with marinara sauce. Bring it to a simmer before adding in your pasta of choice. Cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually around 8-10 minutes.
Cheesy Goodness: Stir in ricotta cheese until well combined; let it melt into the soup for extra creaminess. Add shredded mozzarella towards the end so it gets wonderfully gooey!
Season It Right!: Sprinkle in Italian seasoning and salt to taste just before serving. Give everything one last stir as you let those flavors meld together beautifully.
Garnish & Serve!: Ladle your scrumptious lasagna soup into bowls, topping each one with fresh basil and extra cheese if you’re feeling indulgent. Enjoy while hot for maximum comfort!
Now you’ve created an amazing bowl of lasagna soup that everyone will rave about! Enjoy every spoonful as you reminisce about that time you brought culinary magic into your kitchen!
You Must Know
- This lasagna soup is a delightful twist on the classic dish; it’s comforting, hearty, and perfect for any occasion
- The rich aromas and bubbling cheese create a warm, inviting atmosphere in your kitchen that everyone will love
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the sausage while sautéing onions and garlic for maximum flavor. Then, add the broth and noodles to simmer until tender, creating a deliciously layered taste.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add spinach for extra nutrition. Experiment with different cheeses or spices to tailor the flavor profile to your liking.
Storing & Reheating
To store, let the lasagna soup cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. Reheat in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality cheese for rich flavor and meltiness
- Avoid overcooking noodles; they should be al dente
- Make sure to season each layer as you build flavors throughout cooking for the best results
Making this lasagna soup brought back memories of family gatherings where laughter filled the air alongside delicious food.
FAQ
What is lasagna soup?
Lasagna soup combines traditional lasagna ingredients in a comforting soup format.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute meat with mushrooms or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.
How do I prevent my noodles from getting mushy?
Cook noodles separately and add them just before serving to maintain their texture.
Lasagna Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Lasagna soup is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, combining layers of cheesy goodness with a savory broth. This comforting recipe features tender pasta, zesty marinara, and rich ground beef, creating a warm, inviting bowl perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Easy to prepare and customize, lasagna soup will not only satisfy your hunger but also evoke nostalgia with every spoonful.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 cups small pasta (e.g., shells or ditalini)
- 4 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 medium sweet onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant (3-4 minutes).
- Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned (5-7 minutes), breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Pour in chicken broth and marinara sauce; bring to a simmer. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes).
- Stir in ricotta cheese until well combined; let it melt into the soup. Add shredded mozzarella just before serving for gooeyness.
- Season with Italian seasoning and salt to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and extra cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 350g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For a lighter option, substitute ground beef with turkey or add spinach for extra nutrition. To keep noodles from getting mushy, cook them separately and add them just before serving.