This Lasagna Soup recipe is a heartwarming dish that captures all the flavors of traditional lasagna, but in a cozy, comforting soup form. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this easy-to-make soup will quickly become a favorite. With its rich tomato base, tender pasta, and creamy cheese, it’s a delightful way to enjoy Italian comfort food without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With just one pot required, this recipe simplifies cooking and clean-up.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of ground beef, tomatoes, and Italian seasoning creates a deeply satisfying taste.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.
- Family-Friendly: This soup is sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your family.
- Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will help streamline the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking all ingredients evenly and allowing room for simmering.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
This delectable lasagna soup recipe is an easy way to enjoy all the comfort of lasagna with minimal work. It’s saucy, cozy, and family-loved!
Meat and Base Ingredients
- 1-2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or preferred oil)
- 1 pound Ground Beef
- 1 large Onion (diced)
- 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
Tomato Ingredients
- 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)
Broth and Seasonings
- 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)
Pasta and Cheese Ingredients
- 8 ounces Bowtie Pasta (uncooked)
- 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)
How to Make Lasagna Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Once warm, add diced onion and cook until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned while breaking it apart with your wooden spoon. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Add uncooked bowtie pasta to the soup. Allow it to cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese
Once pasta is cooked through, stir in ricotta cheese until well blended. Top with mozzarella and parmesan cheeses before serving.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy this comforting lasagna soup warm!
How to Serve Lasagna Soup
Serving lasagna soup is all about enhancing its comforting flavors and making it a delightful meal for your family or guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
With Crusty Bread
- Pairing lasagna soup with a slice of crusty bread makes for a perfect combination. Use the bread to soak up the delicious broth.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top adds a pop of color and freshness. It elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
With a Side Salad
- Serving lasagna soup alongside a crisp green salad can balance the richness of the dish. Consider a simple vinaigrette to complement the flavors.
Drizzled with Olive Oil
- A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving can enhance the taste and provide an extra layer of richness.
Garnished with Cheese
- Adding extra shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top gives that gooey, melty goodness everyone loves in lasagna.
With Red Pepper Flakes
- For those who enjoy some heat, sprinkling red pepper flakes over the soup can add just the right kick and spice it up!
How to Perfect Lasagna Soup
To achieve the perfect lasagna soup, keep these helpful tips in mind.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh, high-quality tomatoes and cheeses. They significantly enhance flavor.
- Adjust Consistency: If your soup is too thick, add more water or broth until you reach your desired consistency.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Add bowtie pasta towards the end of cooking. This prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to your liking for the best flavor balance.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld all those wonderful flavors together.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Best Side Dishes for Lasagna Soup
Pairing side dishes with lasagna soup can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some great options to consider.
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread for an irresistible side that complements the soup perfectly.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and creaminess, balancing out the richness of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide nutrients and color while offering a delightful contrast in texture.
- Caprese Skewers: These skewers made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil are light yet flavorful additions.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs create an elegant touch to your meal.
- Antipasto Platter: Serve a mix of cured meats, olives, and cheeses for a flavorful starter that pairs well with lasagna soup.
- Simple Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans tossed with olive oil give freshness without overwhelming flavors.
- Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: These soft biscuits are perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious broth!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making lasagna soup can be straightforward, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Using the wrong pasta: Bowtie pasta is ideal for lasagna soup. Other types may not hold up well in the broth. Stick to the recipe for the best texture.
- Skipping the seasoning: Herbs and spices enhance flavor. Don’t underestimate the importance of Italian seasoning and salt; they elevate your soup significantly.
- Not adjusting consistency: If your soup is too thick, add water gradually until you reach the desired consistency. Always taste before serving!
- Overcooking the pasta: Add pasta towards the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy. It should be al dente when you serve.
- Neglecting garnishes: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra cheese adds a delightful finish. Don’t skip this step for that restaurant-quality touch.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow the soup to cool before sealing for optimal freshness.
Freezing Lasagna Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
- Portion out servings for easy reheating later.
Reheating Lasagna Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until hot, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, stirring halfway through. Start with 2-3 minutes on high, then check.
- Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making lasagna soup.
What is Lasagna Soup?
Lasagna soup is a comforting dish that combines all the flavors of traditional lasagna in a hearty broth with pasta.
How do I make my Lasagna Soup thicker?
To thicken your lasagna soup, consider adding more tomato paste or reducing the liquid by simmering it longer.
Can I customize my Lasagna Soup?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or even substitute ground beef with turkey or sausage for different flavors.
What can I serve with Lasagna Soup?
This delicious soup pairs well with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.
Is Lasagna Soup kid-friendly?
Yes! Its familiar flavors make it appealing to children, and you can adjust ingredients based on their preferences.
Final Thoughts
This lasagna soup recipe brings all the comfort and joy of traditional lasagna without the hassle. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients for a unique twist! Try it today and enjoy a heartwarming bowl that everyone will love!
Lasagna Soup
Lasagna Soup is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, merging the hearty flavors of lasagna with the comfort of a warm soup. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy family gatherings. With a rich tomato base, tender bowtie pasta, and creamy cheese, it satisfies your cravings without the fuss of layering traditional lasagna.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 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)
- 8 ounces Bowtie Pasta (uncooked)
- 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)
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté diced onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for one more minute.
- Add ground beef to the pot, browning it while breaking it apart. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; bring to a simmer.
- Add uncooked bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Stir in ricotta cheese until blended; top with mozzarella and parmesan just before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 425
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
