Ah, Easy Lasagna Soup! Let me tell you, this dish is my go-to when I want something cozy and comforting, but also want a break from the fuss of layering sheets of noodles and cheese. You know those days when you step out of the house, and the air is crisp, urging you to whip up something warm and hearty? This is it! It takes all the flavors of traditional lasagna and transforms them into a hearty, straightforward soup that’s perfect for sharing with family or cozying up on the couch with a good book.
Every time I make this soup, I’m reminded of those wonderful family gatherings at my grandma’s house. She had a special talent for making everyone feel at home with a big pot of something delicious simmering on the stove. There’s just something magical about a bubbling pot of goodness that draws people in, wouldn’t you agree? So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
What’s in Easy Lasagna Soup?
Ground Beef: The star of this show! It brings all the savory deliciousness to the soup. I usually go for lean ground beef to keep it a bit lighter, but feel free to use your favorite protein!
Onion: A medium chopped onion adds a lovely depth of flavor and sweetness to the soup, making it that much more irresistible.
Garlic: These three cloves of minced garlic will elevate your soup with that aromatic kick that we all crave. Seriously, what’s cooking without garlic?
Crushed Tomatoes: The base of our soup! One (28 oz) can of crushed tomatoes adds richness and acidity, creating a luscious sauce that’s simply comforting.
Beef Broth: Four cups of beef broth adds body and flavor. Homemade or store-bought, it definitely sets the stage!
Italian Seasoning: A classic blend of herbs that captures that Italian essence without needing to measure out every individual herb.
Lasagna Noodles: Eight ounces of broken lasagna noodles are what makes this soup hearty and filling. I love breaking them up into different sizes for that rustic look!
Mozzarella Cheese: This is where the magic happens! Two cups of shredded mozzarella cheese create a glorious, bubbling cheese layer on top that makes every spoonful special.
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.
Crusty Bread: What’s soup without a little bread on the side, right? Perfect for dipping and soaking up that delicious broth!
Is Easy Lasagna Soup Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! This soup not only tastes delightful but also has some health benefits:
Ground Beef: Packed with protein, it helps you feel full and satisfied.
Onion and Garlic: Both offer antioxidants and immune-boosting properties, plus they add flavor without the need for extra salt.
Crushed Tomatoes: Loaded with vitamins C and K, they also offer a good dose of antioxidants that you’ll be grateful for, especially during cold seasons.
However, keep in mind that this soup is a bit hearty, thanks to the beef and noodles. If you’re watching your carb intake or looking for a lighter option, you could swap regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free noodles or even toss in some leafy greens like spinach for added nutrition without the heaviness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh parsley for garnish
– Crusty bread for serving
This recipe serves 4-6 people, so it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week!
How to Make Easy Lasagna Soup?
1. In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onions are translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Once boiling, add the broken lasagna noodles. Reduce heat and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 10-15 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
5. While the soup is simmering, preheat your oven broiler on low.
6. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, top each bowl with shredded mozzarella cheese, and place them under the broiler for about 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
7. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with slices of crusty bread on the side.
Secret Variations and Tips!
Here’s where you can really make this soup your own! You can add fresh spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms for extra veggies. Just toss them in along with the noodles to let them cook down. If you’re feeling especially indulgent, sprinkle some extra parmesan cheese on top before serving—it adds that extra touch of yum that you won’t want to miss!
And trust me, this soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. So feel free to whip up a big batch and enjoy the leftovers for lunch or dinner!
I can’t wait for you to give this Easy Lasagna Soup a try! It’s one of those recipes that brings warmth to the heart and a smile to your face. If you do make it, be sure to let me know how it turns out! Happy cooking!
