Oh, let me tell you how much I adore this Easy Lasagna Soup recipe! It’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket of comfort food goodness. The flavors of traditional lasagna meld together perfectly in a warm, delightful soup that’s both heartwarming and hearty. I remember the first time I made this soup during a chilly autumn evening, the smell of garlic wafting through the kitchen made everyone gravitate towards it like a warm hug! Honestly, it was a game-changer for our family dinners. Everyone loved it!
What I love most about this dish is its simplicity. You get all the rich flavors of lasagna without the fuss of layering pasta, cheese, and sauce. Plus, it’s versatile! You can easily customize it based on what you have at home or your dietary preferences. So, grab your favorite pot and let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!
What’s in Easy Lasagna Soup?
Ground beef or sausage: This is the star protein of the show. I usually go for ground beef, but using sausage adds a delightful extra layer of flavor. Plus, you can opt for turkey or plant-based alternatives if you prefer a lighter meal.
Onion, chopped: Onions are essential for building flavor right from the start. They caramelize beautifully when cooked and add a lovely sweetness to the dish.
Garlic, minced: Ah, garlic – the ingredient that makes everything better! Minced garlic brings an aromatic punch that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Tomato sauce: This is the base for the soup, giving it a rich and robust flavor. I usually go for a good quality brand that’s low in sugar to keep it healthy!
Diced tomatoes: They add a nice texture and freshness to the soup. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for an extra smoky twist.
Chicken or vegetable broth: This is crucial for creating that comforting soup base. You can use homemade broth or store-bought, whatever you have on hand.
Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs takes the soup straight to Italy! You can use a store-bought mix, or make your own using dried basil, oregano, and thyme.
Lasagna noodles, broken into pieces: This is where the fun happens! I love breaking the noodles into chunks—I mean, who doesn’t want to slurp up bits of lasagna in soup form?
Mozzarella cheese, shredded: This cheese melts beautifully and gives that classic lasagna creaminess. I always go for whole milk mozzarella for that extra indulgence.
Parmesan cheese, grated: A dash of Parmesan adds a savory finish to your bowl. It’s like a cherry on top, but, you know, cheesy!
Fresh basil for garnish (optional): Not only does fresh basil brighten up the dish visually, but it also offers a burst of freshness in every bite.
Is Easy Lasagna Soup Good for You?
Absolutely! This Easy Lasagna Soup packs a nutrient punch, especially with the inclusion of vegetables like onions and tomatoes.
Ground beef: This is a great source of protein and iron. If you choose lean ground beef, it can fit nicely into a balanced diet.
Tomatoes: These are full of vitamins C and K, potassium, and folate. Plus, they contain antioxidants which are super beneficial for your health.
Cheeses: While cheese adds delicious creaminess, it’s also rich in calcium and protein. Just remember to enjoy in moderation if you’re watching your fat intake.
Keep an eye on the sodium levels from the broth and sauces, especially if you’re going for canned products. Choosing low-sodium options can make this dish even healthier!
Ingredients List
– Ground beef or sausage (1 pound)
– Onion, chopped (1 medium)
– Garlic, minced (3 cloves)
– Tomato sauce (1 can, 15 oz)
– Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14 oz)
– Chicken or vegetable broth (4 cups)
– Italian seasoning (2 teaspoons)
– Lasagna noodles, broken into pieces (6-8 noodles)
– Mozzarella cheese, shredded (1 cup)
– Parmesan cheese, grated (1/2 cup)
– Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
**Servings:** This recipe makes about 4-6 hearty servings, perfect for family or meal prep for the week!
How to Make Easy Lasagna Soup?
1. In a large pot over medium heat, cook your ground beef or sausage with the chopped onion until it’s nicely browned. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat!
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute, letting those aromatic flavors come alive.
3. Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and your choice of broth. This is where the magic begins!
4. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, bring everything to a gentle boil, and allow those flavors to meld together beautifully.
5. Toss in the broken lasagna noodles and let them cook until tender.
6. Stir in the mozzarella cheese until it’s melted and creamy—this step is pure bliss!
7. Serve your soup hot, topping each bowl with some grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil if you like. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!
Cheesy Tidbits for Lasagna Soup Lovers
– You can easily swap in your favorite veggies, like bell peppers or spinach, during the cooking process for some added nutrition and color!
– If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles instead.
– This soup makes for fantastic leftovers! You might find the flavors develop even more overnight.
– Don’t shy away from experimenting! I’ve added a splash of heavy cream for a richer texture or even some red pepper flakes for a kick.
I really hope you give this Easy Lasagna Soup a try! It’s the ultimate feel-good dish that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones, or just savoring all on your own after a long day. Please let me know how it turns out for you—I’m always excited to hear your cooking adventures! Enjoy the warmth and cheer of this delightful soup.
