Is there anything that feels more comforting than a big bowl of soup on a chilly evening? Well, let me introduce you to my go-to cozy dish: **Easy Lasagna Soup**! This recipe has been a family favorite for years and is a dish that brings back so many warm memories. I can still hear my grandma laughing in the kitchen, as she used to simmer this fragrant broth while telling stories of her early days in Italy. Every slurp of this soup feels a bit like home to me.
What I absolutely love about this soup, aside from the delightful taste, is just how easy it is to whip up on a busy weeknight! It combines all the cozy elements of classic lasagna—meaty goodness, cheesy richness, and those delicious Italian herbs—but in a glorious, one-pot form. Plus, it’s a perfect way to use up any leftover ricotta you have hanging around. Let’s dive into this scrumptious soup that you’re sure to love as much as I do!
What’s in Easy Lasagna Soup?
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: This is the heart of the soup, providing a rich, savory flavor. I often alternate between the two depending on my mood. Both work wonderfully! If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey can also be used.
Onion: A diced onion adds a wonderful sweetness and depth that’s hard to resist. Make sure to sauté it just right, and you’re golden!
Garlic: The more, the merrier! I love minced garlic for its robust flavor. It really kicks up the intensity of this soup.
Crushed Tomatoes: These give the soup a beautiful base and luscious texture. I like using San Marzano tomatoes if I can find them—they’re just sweeter and more flavorful.
Chicken or Beef Broth: This is what transforms our simple ingredients into a comforting, soul-warming soup. Homemade is best, but store-bought works great too!
Dried Lasagna Noodles: Breaking them up into pieces makes them so fun to eat, and they soak up all that delicious broth perfectly.
Dried Basil and Oregano: Classic Italian herbs to bring out that wonderful Mediterranean flavor!
Salt and Pepper: A sprinkle of these is essential for bringing all the flavors together.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy dream adds a delightful richness to every bowl. It’s the Italian soup’s version of a warm hug!
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Great for that cheesy finish! I usually add a little extra on top—because why not?
Fresh Basil: Chopped fresh basil for garnish adds a burst of flavor and a lovely pop of color.
Olive Oil: Just a splash to sauté the ingredients and add that Mediterranean touch!
Is Easy Lasagna Soup Good for You?
You bet! This hearty soup is packed with protein from the ground beef or sausage, making it a filling and satisfying meal.
Tomatoes: They’re rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is great for heart health. Plus, we all know those vitamins are a nice bonus!
Chicken or Beef Broth: This adds flavor without a lot of calories. Just be mindful of the sodium; opt for a low-sodium version if you’re watching your salt intake.
Ricotta Cheese: While it adds creaminess, it also supplies calcium and protein to the dish. Just watch the portion size if you’re keeping an eye on fat intake.
Overall, while it’s definitely comfort food, there are plenty of wholesome ingredients to enjoy guilt-free!
Ingredients for Easy Lasagna Soup
– 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken or beef broth
– 2 cups dried lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
– Olive oil (for cooking)
This recipe serves about 4-6 people—perfect for a family dinner or meal prep!
How to Make Easy Lasagna Soup?
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and ground beef (or sausage) to the pot. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through, breaking it apart as it cooks.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot and stir. Let the soup simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
5. While the soup is cooking, mix the ricotta cheese with the grated Parmesan cheese in a bowl. Set aside.
6. Once the noodles are cooked, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
7. Serve the soup hot, topped with a dollop of the ricotta mixture and garnished with fresh chopped basil.
Perfecting Your Lasagna Soup
Let’s talk about some fun twists and extras! If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some spinach or kale for an extra nutritional boost. You can also change the pasta—try using gluten-free noodles, or even tortellini for a fun change-up.
Got leftovers? This soup actually tastes even better the next day—just let those flavors mingle in the fridge overnight. And if you want to really impress, serve it up with some crusty garlic bread on the side, and you’ve got a dinner that everyone will be raving about!
I can’t wait for you to try this **Easy Lasagna Soup**! It brings together a comforting bowl of flavors that warms the heart. Make sure to share your experiences, tips, and any fun variations you come up with. Happy cooking, my friend!
