Imagine curling up on the couch with a bowl of steaming lasagna soup. The smell of tomatoes, herbs, and meats is irresistible. Lasagna soup is perfect for comfort food lovers.
This dish is like traditional lasagna but in a soup form. It’s hearty and satisfying. You can make it your own with your favorite ingredients.
This soup has lean ground beef and Jones Dairy Farm pork sausage. It’s been the same quality for 1889 years. Rich bone broth or chicken broth adds a special touch.
Preparing this soup is easy, whether you’re in a hurry or have time to relax. It only needs 10 ingredients and some love. Serve it with a salad or garlic bread for a cozy meal.
Estimated reading time: 8 minutes
Calories: 608 per serving
Servings: 6 to 8 people
Nutritional Info: 35.5g protein, perfect for your dietary needs!
Get ready to enjoy this nourishing lasagna soup recipe. It’s easy to store, and leftovers last up to 4 days. You can even freeze it for up to three months. Let’s start!
Introduction to Lasagna Soup
Lasagna soup is like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s a quick and easy version of lasagna. It’s great for cold winter nights, filled with ground beef, Italian sausage, and marinara sauce.
This soup is a mix of meats, veggies, and cheeses. It’s a favorite for many. Ground beef and sweet Italian sausage add lots of flavor.
Adding 4 cups of fresh spinach makes it healthy and colorful. It’s a delicious twist on a classic dish.
The soup has 9 lasagna sheets or 8 ounces of pasta. It’s made with 6 cups of chicken stock. This keeps it thick and tasty.
It also has 2 cups of half-and-half for creaminess. This makes it extra yummy.
The ricotta topping is creamy and cheesy. It has ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and basil. Each serving is about 1 1/2 cups.
This soup has 749kcal, 34g protein, and 50g carbs. It’s a hit with everyone, a warm and satisfying meal.
Lasagna soup is perfect for families or big groups. It’s easy to make and full of flavor. It’s a quick way to enjoy a classic Italian dish.
Ingredients Needed for the Best Lasagna Soup
To make the best lasagna soup, you need fresh and tasty ingredients. These ingredients make a hearty meal that feels like traditional lasagna. It’s important to use good proteins, veggies, and a strong tomato base for the best flavor.
Protein Options: Ground Beef and Italian Sausage
Ground beef and Italian sausage give the soup a meaty taste. Pick high-quality ones from places like Jones Dairy Farm. You can also use lean ground turkey for a lighter version.
Vegetable Ingredients: Onion and Garlic
Vegetables make the soup richer. Diced white onion and minced garlic add a nice smell. Cherry tomatoes add freshness and sweetness.
Tomato Base: Tomato Paste and Marinara Sauce
A good tomato base is key for lasagna soup. Start with 2 tbsp of tomato paste for flavor. Then, add marinara sauce and crushed tomatoes for a balanced broth.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 lb |
| Italian Sausage | 1 lb |
| White Onion, diced | 1/2 |
| Garlic Cloves, minced | 5 |
| Halved Cherry Tomatoes | 2 cups |
| Marinara Sauce | 32 oz |
| Crushed Tomatoes | 14 oz |
| Tomato Paste | 2 tbsp |
| Italian Seasoning | 2 tsp |
| Fresh Basil Garnish | To taste |
Preparing Your Ingredients Ahead of Time
Getting your ingredients ready early can make cooking faster. It makes your easy lasagna soup recipe smoother. Here’s how to start preparing lasagna soup efficiently:
Chopping Vegetables
Chopping veggies is key in making lasagna soup. You’ll need:
- 5 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 white onion, diced
- 2 cups of halved cherry tomatoes
Having these veggies ready saves time. It makes cooking lasagna soup easier.
Combining Spices
Then, mix spices like Italian seasoning, fennel seeds, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. For this recipe, you need:
- 2 tsp of Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp of salt
- 1 tsp of pepper
This step keeps the flavor the same. Adding spices little by little helps them spread evenly.
Boiling Pasta
Boiling pasta before adding it to the soup is smart. It keeps the pasta just right. For this recipe, use:
- 8 oz of lasagna noodles, broken up
Boiling pasta early lets you control its texture. This makes your lasagna soup perfect.
These steps are the base of a quick and easy lasagna soup cooking process.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making homemade lasagna soup is easy. We’ll show you how to cook the meat, sauté veggies, and simmer the soup. This recipe takes 35 minutes to make and serves up to ten people.
Cooking the Meat
Start by cooking the meat. Use a big pot to brown 1 lb of Italian sausage and 1 lb of ground beef. Make sure they’re both golden brown. This step makes the soup rich and tasty.
Drain any extra fat. This keeps the soup from getting too greasy.
Sautéing the Vegetables
After the meat is done, sauté the veggies. Add 1 medium chopped yellow onion and 4 minced garlic cloves to the pot. Cook them until they’re soft and smell good, about 3-4 minutes.
Add seasonings like red pepper flakes, oregano, and dried basil. This makes the soup even better.
Simmering the Soup
Now, mix all the ingredients together. Add 7 cups of chicken broth, 24 oz of marinara sauce, and 3 tbsp of tomato paste. Let it simmer over medium heat for 20 minutes.
This turns your ingredients into a delicious, hearty soup. It tastes like a classic lasagna.
| Steps | Description | Additional Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking the Meat | Brown 1 lb each of Italian sausage and ground beef in a large pot. Drain excess fat. | Evenly cook for a rich, greasy-free base. |
| Sautéing the Vegetables | Sauté 1 medium chopped yellow onion and 4 minced garlic cloves until soft and fragrant. Add spices. | This step blends vegetable and meat flavors. |
| Simmering the Soup | Combine meat and vegetables with 7 cups of chicken broth, 24 oz marinara sauce, and 3 tbsp tomato paste. Simmer for 20 minutes. | Allows the ingredients to meld into a rich soup. |
By following these steps, your homemade lasagna soup will be full of flavor. Make sure to cook each step carefully. This way, all the ingredients will blend perfectly. Happy cooking!
Adding the Pasta to Your Lasagna Soup
Adding pasta to your lasagna soup is key. The way you do it can change the taste and feel of the soup. Let’s look at why cooking pasta alone is best and how to mix it into the soup.
Benefits of Cooking Pasta Separately
Cooking pasta alone keeps your lasagna soup just right. It stops the noodles from getting too soggy. Here’s why it’s a good idea:
- Textural Integrity: Cooking pasta alone keeps it firm, not mushy.
- Flavor Preservation: It keeps the pasta from weakening the soup’s flavor.
- Enhanced Storage: It makes reheating better, so the pasta stays good.
Spending about 10 minutes on this step makes your lasagna soup better. It’s more filling and tasty.
Incorporating Pasta Into the Soup
Now, add the cooked pasta to the soup. Stir it in just before serving. This keeps each part of the soup tasty and right.
- Simmer the soup base for 20 minutes, then stop the heat.
- Add the cooked lasagna noodles, broken into pieces (about 200g or 7 oz).
- Stir gently until the pasta is spread out evenly in the soup.
- Top with herbed ricotta, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese for more flavor.
- Serve right away for the best mix of noodles and soup.
In just a few minutes, you’ve made a lasagna soup that’s both tasty and textured. Each serving, with about 424 calories, will please your taste buds with its hearty flavors.
| Ingredient | Amount | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef or Italian Sausage | 300g (10.5 oz) | 424 |
| Diced Onion | 1 cup (150g) | – |
| Garlic Cloves | 3-4 cloves | – |
| Tomato Paste | 2 tbsp (30g) | – |
| Evaporated Milk or Heavy Cream | 1 cup (240ml) | – |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 cup (grated) | – |
| Mozzarella Cheese | 1 cup (shredded) | – |
| Lasagna Noodles | 200g (7 oz) | – |
Making a Herbed Ricotta Topping
Creating a herbed ricotta topping is key to making your lasagna soup better. It adds a creamy, tasty layer that feels like lasagna’s cheesy top. It also makes the tomato soup taste even better.
To make this tasty lasagna soup garnish, you’ll need:
- 12 oz of ricotta cheese
- 3 tbsp of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp of olive oil
- 1 tbsp of chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp of chopped fresh basil
- 1/2 tsp of dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp of salt
- 1/4 tsp of black pepper
Start by putting the ricotta cheese in a bowl. Add the Parmesan cheese, olive oil, parsley, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until it’s smooth.
This herbed ricotta topping is best used right away. Spoon it over your lasagna soup. It melts into the soup, adding flavor and creaminess.
With this herbed ricotta topping, your lasagna soup will taste amazing. It will also look very appealing. It’s perfect for any special occasion.
Serving Suggestions for Lasagna Soup
There are many ways to serve lasagna soup. You can choose simple sides or fancy garnishes. These ideas will make your lasagna soup even better.
Pairing with Bread and Salad
Pairing lasagna soup with garlic bread is a classic choice. The bread’s crispiness matches the soup’s rich taste. Adding a green salad is also good. It’s fresh and light, balancing the soup’s bold flavors.
| Side Dish | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Crusty Garlic Bread | Provides a crispy counterbalance to the savory soup |
| Green Salad | Offers a fresh and light contrast to the rich flavors |
Garnishing Your Soup
Adding fresh herbs and cheeses can make your soup pop. Fresh basil adds color and flavor. Grated Parmesan cheese brings a rich taste. Red pepper flakes add a spicy kick.
Variations and Customizations
Lasagna soup is very flexible. You can change it to fit many diets. Want a veggie version, gluten-free, or creamier? There are easy ways to make it.
Vegetarian Lasagna Soup
Make it veggie-friendly by swapping meat for lentils, chickpeas, or mushrooms. This keeps the soup thick and adds nutrients. Add spinach, kale, or zucchini for more flavor and health.
Gluten-Free Lasagna Soup
Make it gluten-free by using rice or chickpea pasta. These keep the soup cozy but safe for gluten-free diets. Check the broth and sauces too.
Creamy Lasagna Soup
For a creamier soup, add heavy cream or more ricotta. This makes it rich and smooth. Try blending in mascarpone or cream cheese for even more creaminess.
| Variation | Key Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vegetarian Lasagna Soup | Lentils, Chickpeas, Mushrooms, Seasonal Vegetables | Boosts protein and nutrient content |
| Gluten-Free Lasagna Soup | Gluten-Free Pasta, Gluten-Free Broth | Ensures the dish is safe for those with gluten sensitivities |
| Creamy Lasagna Soup | Heavy Cream, Ricotta, Mascarpone, Cream Cheese | Adds a luxurious texture to the soup |
Using a Slow Cooker for Lasagna Soup
Making slow cooker lasagna soup is great for easy soup recipes. It’s easy and tastes amazing. The long cooking time makes the soup rich and delicious.
- Equipment: Crockpot or slow cooker (6-quart)
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef, Italian sausage, or plant-based meat
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato paste
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6-8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (for topping)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
It’s easy to make. Brown the meat and cook the onions and garlic. Then, put everything in the slow cooker. Add lasagna noodles for the last hour.
- Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 6 servings):
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 28 grams
- Carbohydrates: 38 grams
- Fat: 20 grams
- Detailed Stats:
- Serving Size: 6 to 8
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 4 to 8 hours
- Calories per serving: 608 kcal
- Protein: 35.5 grams
- Fat: 32.5 grams
- Carbohydrates: 42.8 grams
Using a crockpot is great for big batches. It’s perfect for families and busy nights. The slow cooking makes everything tender and tasty.
This slow cooker lasagna soup keeps well in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. It can be frozen for up to three months. You can also change it to fit different diets.
How to Make Instant Pot Lasagna Soup
Making instant pot lasagna soup is a game changer. It’s quick and flavorful, perfect for busy days. It cooks faster than other methods, making it great for last-minute meals.
- 1.5 lbs of ground turkey, beef, or chicken (adjust to 1 lb if you like)
- 4 1/2 cups of chicken broth (add more for the right consistency)
- 8 uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 1/4 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 8 ounces of cottage cheese or ricotta (or both)
- 1 lb. of ground beef
- 28 oz. crushed tomatoes
- 8 oz. of tomato sauce or spaghetti sauce
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon of basil
- 3 tablespoons of minced garlic
Here’s a quick lasagna soup recipe for your Instant Pot:
- Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add olive oil.
- Brown the ground meat until it’s fully cooked.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for a minute until it smells good.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth.
- Break the lasagna noodles and add them to the pot.
- Mix in the Italian seasoning and basil.
- Close the lid, set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 5 minutes.
- Once done, quick release the pressure and open the lid carefully.
- Stir in shredded mozzarella and ricotta cheese until melted and mixed well.
This quick lasagna soup recipe serves 4-6 people. You can enjoy it with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted veggies. For dietary needs, use plant-based meat, vegetable broth, or gluten-free noodles. You can also use dairy-free cheese for vegan or lactose-free diets.
Enjoy your delicious instant pot lasagna soup with family and friends!
Tips for Storing and Reheating Your Soup
Keeping your homemade lasagna soup fresh is easy. Just follow the right storage and reheating steps. This way, you can enjoy its tasty flavors for days.
Refrigerating Lasagna Soup
For fridge storage, put the soup in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh. Don’t add pasta yet to avoid mushy noodles. You can keep it in the fridge for up to four days.
Freezing Lasagna Soup
Freezing is great for saving soup for later. Leave out the pasta to avoid mushiness. Add fresh pasta when you reheat. Use airtight containers or freezer bags for up to three months. Soups are good for freezing because they don’t get freezer burn.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat your soup on the stove or in the microwave. On the stove, heat it over medium, stirring often. If it’s too thick, add some broth. For the microwave, use a safe container and heat in 1-2 minute bursts, stirring each time. A bit of broth before microwaving helps with consistency.
By storing and reheating your lasagna soup right, you can enjoy it anytime. It stays delicious and fresh.
Conclusion
Now you know how to make the best lasagna soup. It’s like traditional lasagna but in a soup. You can use fresh ingredients and spices to make it.
There are easy steps to follow, even if you’re new to cooking. You can also use a slow cooker or Instant Pot for convenience. This keeps the soup’s flavor rich and true.
Don’t forget to store leftovers right to keep them tasty. You can also make the soup your own way, like adding veggies or using gluten-free ingredients. Start making your lasagna soup today and enjoy every bite.
FAQ
What is lasagna soup?
Lasagna soup is like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s a mix of tasty ingredients that feel like a big hug. You get the flavors of lasagna but in a soup.
How do I make homemade lasagna soup?
Start by cooking ground beef and Italian sausage until they’re brown. Then, sauté onions and garlic. Next, simmer them with marinara sauce and broth.
Just before serving, add cooked pasta. Top it with a creamy ricotta and Parmesan mix for extra flavor.
What ingredients are needed for the best lasagna soup?
You’ll need ground beef, Italian sausage, onions, garlic, and tomato paste. Don’t forget marinara sauce, ricotta, Parmesan, and pasta. Adding veggies and herbs makes it even better.
How can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time?
Chop onions and garlic early. Mix spices like Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Boil pasta separately to keep it just right.
What is the benefit of cooking pasta separately for lasagna soup?
Cooking pasta alone keeps it from getting mushy. It stays perfect when you add it to the soup.
How can I make a herbed ricotta topping for lasagna soup?
Mix ricotta with Parmesan, olive oil, and herbs. This creamy mix adds a cheesy layer to your soup.
What are some serving suggestions for lasagna soup?
Try it with garlic bread or a green salad. Add fresh basil, Parmesan, or red pepper flakes for extra taste and looks.
How can lasagna soup be customized for different dietary needs?
For a veggie version, use mushrooms or lentils instead of meat. Try gluten-free pasta for a special diet. Add more cream or ricotta for a creamier soup.
Can I make lasagna soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, slow cookers are great for lasagna soup. They simmer flavors all day, perfect for when you’re busy.
How do I make lasagna soup in an Instant Pot?
Instant Pots make lasagna soup quick. Brown meat, sauté veggies, and cook with broth and sauce. Add pasta before serving.
How should I store and reheat lasagna soup?
Store it in a sealed container in the fridge for 4 days or freeze without pasta for 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding broth if it’s too thick.
Lasagna soup is not only a delicious comfort food but also a versatile dish that can be adapted to meet various dietary needs. For those interested in the nutritional benefits of the ingredients used in lasagna soup, such as lean meats, vegetables, and whole grains, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers valuable resources on healthy eating and meal planning. Check out their MyPlate guidelines for tips on creating balanced meals that incorporate proteins, vegetables, and grains in a way that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Whether you’re making a classic lasagna soup or experimenting with vegetarian or gluten-free variations, these guidelines can help you make informed choices for a healthier lifestyle.
