Get ready for a warm bowl of comfort with my Easy Lasagna Soup! This recipe combines the rich flavors of traditional lasagna in a simple, soup format. You’ll love how quick and easy it is to make with ground meat, flavorful spices, and melty cheeses. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a meal prep session, this soup will satisfy both your taste buds and your busy schedule. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!
Ingredients
To make Easy Lasagna Soup, you need some key ingredients. Each one adds flavor and texture to your dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 1 lb ground beef or turkey
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 8 oz uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
These ingredients come together for a warm and hearty meal. Ground beef or turkey gives the soup its rich base. Onion and garlic provide aroma and depth. Canned tomatoes and broth create the soup’s body. The lasagna noodles add the classic texture we love. The cheeses melt beautifully, making each bowl creamy and delicious. Don’t forget fresh basil on top for a burst of flavor! For the full recipe, check out the section above.
Now, gather these ingredients and get ready to cook!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Meat and Vegetables
– Browning the Ground Meat
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef or turkey into the pot. Cook the meat for about 7-10 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into smaller pieces. Once it is browned and no longer pink, drain any excess fat.
– Sautéing Onion and Garlic
Next, add 1 medium diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves to the pot. Stir them together with the meat. Sauté everything for about 3-4 minutes. You want the onion to turn soft and translucent, and for the garlic to smell amazing.
Creating the Soup Base
– Adding Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in 1 can of crushed tomatoes and 4 cups of beef or vegetable broth. This will create a rich base for the soup. Stir gently to mix everything well.
– Incorporating Seasonings
Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. These spices will boost the flavor of your soup. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally as it heats up.
Cooking Noodles
– Adding Noodles to the Soup
Once your soup is simmering, it’s time to add the noodles. Break 8 ounces of uncooked lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces. Toss them into the pot and stir well.
– Cooking Time for Noodles
Let the soup cook uncovered for about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking. Check the noodles to make sure they are tender but not mushy.
Cheese Mixture Preparation
– Combining Ricotta and Mozzarella
While the noodles are cooking, mix the cheeses. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese with ½ cup of shredded mozzarella and ½ cup of grated Parmesan. Mix well until smooth.
– Setting Aside the Mixture
Set the cheese mixture aside while the soup finishes cooking. This will be the creamy topping for your soup.
Final Assembly
– Serving the Soup
After the noodles are cooked, ladle the hot soup into bowls. Each bowl should be filled with that rich, meaty broth and tender noodles.
– Cheese Melting Process
Add a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture to the center of each bowl. Stir gently to allow the cheese to melt slightly into the soup.
– Garnishing the Dish
Top each bowl with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Allow a moment for the cheese to melt. For the final touch, sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top. This adds a bright flavor and a lovely look to your dish.
For the full recipe, check out Cheesy Lasagna Soup Delight.
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Flavor
For a richer taste, add in some veggies like spinach or bell peppers. You can also throw in cooked sausage or diced chicken for extra protein. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley lift the dish. They add bright flavor and make your soup look fancy.
Cooking Time Adjustments
If you want al dente noodles, check them at 10 minutes. For softer noodles, let them cook longer. This helps you control the texture just how you like it. To save time, use pre-cooked meat or veggies. This makes your meal prep super quick and easy.
Try these tips to make your easy lasagna soup even better! You can find the full recipe above to get started.
Variations
Vegetarian Lasagna Soup
For a meatless version of this soup, you can use some easy swaps.
– Substitutes for Meat
Try using lentils or mushrooms instead of meat. These options add a hearty flavor. You can also use plant-based ground meat for extra protein.
– Additional Vegetables to Include
Add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to enhance the soup. These veggies bring color and nutrition. Carrots and peas can also make it more vibrant.
Gluten-Free Options
If you need a gluten-free soup, there are simple choices.
– Gluten-Free Lasagna Noodles
Use gluten-free lasagna noodles made from rice or corn. They cook well and fit perfectly in this soup.
– Alternative Broth Suggestions
Choose a gluten-free broth, like vegetable or chicken broth. Check labels to ensure they meet your needs.
Spicy Lasagna Soup
Want some heat? You can easily spice up your soup.
– Adding Heat with Peppers or Spices
Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. You can start small and add more for extra kick.
– Adjusting Seasonings
Increase the Italian seasoning or add cayenne pepper. Tasting as you go helps you find the right heat level.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
To keep your Easy Lasagna Soup fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps lock in flavor and moisture. Allow the soup to cool before sealing. Leftover soup can last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you think you won’t finish it that soon, consider freezing some.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing lasagna soup is a simple process. First, let the soup cool completely. Then, pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. You can freeze it for up to 3 months.
To reheat frozen soup, move it to the fridge for a night to thaw. You can also use the microwave or stovetop for faster reheating. If using the stovetop, heat slowly and stir often. Add a splash of broth if it seems too thick. Enjoy your delightful soup whenever you want!
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this soup ahead. It stores well in the fridge. To prep, cook the soup fully, let it cool, and then place it in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
How do I make Lasagna Soup creamy?
To add creaminess, mix in ricotta cheese. You can also stir in some heavy cream or half-and-half. This will give the soup a rich, velvety texture. For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of nutmeg. These tips create a lovely creamy soup that feels comforting.
What can I serve with Lasagna Soup?
Lasagna soup pairs well with crusty bread. You can also serve it with a fresh salad for balance. Garlic bread is another fun option. Pairing with a simple green salad adds freshness. Try a light vinaigrette to brighten the meal.
Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a slow cooker for this soup. Brown the meat first in a pan. Then, transfer it to the slow cooker with the other ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method helps the flavors blend beautifully.
This blog post explored how to make a delicious lasagna soup. We covered the key ingredients, from ground beef to cheeses. You learned to prepare the meat, veggies, and soup base step-by-step. We discussed tips to enhance flavor and various adaptations, like vegetarian and gluten-free options. Storing and reheating your soup is easy with my storage tips.
Now, you can enjoy lasagna soup that fits your taste and schedule. Happy cooking!
