When teh chill of autumn settles in and comfort food becomes a daily craving, nothing warms the soul quite like a bowl of hearty lasagna soup.Imagine all the rich, layered flavors of traditional Italian lasagna-meaty tomato sauce, tender noodles, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella-transformed into a steaming, savory soup that’s as cozy as it is indeed convenient. This inventive twist on a beloved classic brings together the best of both worlds: the satisfying depth of a simmered stew and the comforting familiarity of a family favorite.Join us as we dive into the deliciously simple recipe and discover how to bring this irresistible,soul-soothing dish to your table.
Hearty lasagna soup invites you to savor the classic flavors of Italian lasagna with a comforting, soul-warming twist that’s perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave a bowl of cozy goodness. Rooted in the rich tradition of layering robust ingredients, this soup captures the essence of lasagna by bringing together tender pasta, savory meat, tangy tomato, and indulgent cheeses in a steaming bowl of comfort. From the first fragrant spoonful, you’ll understand why this dish has become a beloved fusion of hearty and homey.
Prep and Cook Time
- Planning: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield
Serves 6 hearty portions-perfect for sharing or savoring leftovers.
Difficulty Level
Easy to Medium – ideal for beginner cooks wanting to explore Italian flavors with approachable techniques.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef or chicken broth, low sodium
- 1 (28-oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups water
- 8 oz oven-ready lasagna noodles, broken into bite-size pieces
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: in a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.Break the meat into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot. Sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Build the Broth: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef or chicken broth, and water. Add the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Cook the noodles: Add the broken lasagna noodles directly into the simmering soup. stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes until noodles are tender but not mushy.
- Melt the Cheese: Once noodles are cooked, reduce heat to low.Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella cheese until melted and silky.
- Serve with Ricotta and Parmesan: Ladle the soup generously into bowls. Dollop with ricotta cheese and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a bright, aromatic finish.
Tips for Success: Customizing Your Hearty Lasagna Soup
- Make it Vegetarian: Swap the meat for a medley of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and diced bell peppers.Use vegetable broth for the richest flavor.
- Cheese Variations: Try substituting ricotta with creamy mascarpone or adding dollops of burrata for an ultra-luxe touch.
- Pasta Alternatives: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles, broken into pieces, or substitute with small pasta shapes like ditalini or broken fusilli.
- Batch Cooking: This soup freezes beautifully. Store cooled soup without cheese for up to 3 months.Add fresh cheese toppings when reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your hearty lasagna soup with crusty garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or fresh herbs like oregano and parsley elevates presentation and flavor. For a finishing touch, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil or balsamic glaze atop your bowl-it adds just the right hint of richness to every bite.
| Nutrient | per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
For more delightful Italian-inspired soups, check out our Classic Minestrone Soup Recipe. To understand the science behind a rich broth foundation, visit Serious Eats’ guide to homemade broth.
Q&A
Q&A: Hearty Lasagna Soup – A Cozy Twist on an Italian Classic
Q1: What is Hearty Lasagna Soup?
A1: Hearty Lasagna Soup is a warm, comforting dish that captures all the beloved flavors of traditional lasagna but in a soothing, spoonable form. Instead of layers of pasta,cheese,and sauce,this soup combines those elements into a rich broth filled with ground meat,tender noodles,tomatoes,herbs,and creamy cheese. It’s like lasagna transformed into a cozy hug in a bowl!
Q2: How does lasagna soup differ from traditional lasagna?
A2: While traditional lasagna is a baked, layered casserole, lasagna soup deconstructs those layers into a stew-like dish. The pasta is cooked directly in the broth, absorbing the robust tomato and herb flavors, while ricotta or cottage cheese adds the creamy texture lasagna is known for. It’s faster to make, easier to serve, and perfect for chilly evenings when you crave something both hearty and warming.
Q3: What are the key ingredients in a lasagna soup?
A3: The essentials include ground beef or Italian sausage, onions, garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, broken lasagna noodles (or any short pasta), Italian herbs (like oregano and basil), and a creamy cheese topping such as ricotta mixed with Parmesan and fresh herbs. Optional additions might be spinach or kale for a veggie boost, and a splash of red wine for depth.
Q4: Can Hearty Lasagna Soup be made vegetarian?
A4: Absolutely! Simply swap the ground meat for hearty mushrooms,lentils,or plant-based crumbles. The richness comes from the combination of the broth, tomatoes, herbs, and cheese, so the flavor remains satisfying. Roasted vegetables or even lentils can add that meaty texture and richness without compromising the soul-warming essence.
Q5: what makes this soup especially “hearty”?
A5: The combination of protein-rich ground meat, filling pasta, and creamy cheeses makes every spoonful deeply satisfying.The tomato-based broth is thickened slightly by the pasta starch and cheese, turning the soup into a meal rather than just a starter. It’s designed to fill you up and comfort you on colder days, bringing a full spectrum of lasagna’s flavors without the need for oven time.
Q6: How long does it take to prepare?
A6: One of the perks of lasagna soup is its speedy preparation. From chopping to simmering, it usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes. That’s a fraction of the time of baking traditional lasagna, making it a perfect weeknight meal especially when you want something homey but fuss-free.
Q7: Can Hearty Lasagna Soup be frozen or stored for leftovers?
A7: Yes! This soup freezes well, though it’s best to store the soup and cheese topping separately. Freeze the soup in airtight containers, then thaw and reheat gently on the stove. Add fresh dollops of ricotta or Parmesan when serving to keep that creamy texture fresh and vibrant.
Q8: What tips do you have for customizing this soup?
A8: Get creative! Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat, or swap out the pasta for gluten-free varieties. stir in fresh spinach or kale for color and nutrition, or use fresh herbs to brighten the flavor just before serving. Don’t be afraid to experiment-the soul of lasagna is in its rich layers, weather assembled traditionally or spooned from a bowl.
Q9: Why is lasagna soup considered a “cozy twist” on an Italian classic?
A9: Becuase it takes the beloved flavors of an iconic comfort food and reshapes them into something new and intimate-easy to savor, easier to share, and perfect for curling up with on a chilly night. It’s like a fresh love letter to lasagna,served hot and steaming,inviting you to slow down and enjoy the warmth of home.
The Way Forward
As the steam rises from your bowl of hearty lasagna soup, you’re not just enjoying a meal-you’re savoring a warm embrace in liquid form. This cozy twist on an Italian classic captures all the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna with a delightful, soul-soothing ease. Whether nestled by the fireplace or brightening a busy weeknight, this soup invites you to slow down, savor each spoonful, and celebrate the timeless joy of good food shared. So next time the chill sets in or comfort calls, remember: lasagna doesn’t have to be layered-it can be ladled, too. Buon appetito!
