Ah, Lasagna Soup! Just saying the name sends me right back to my childhood, where pasta was a close family member and cheese was practically a food group. I’ve always thought of lasagna as a warm hug, layered with all the good stuff. But when you transform those flavors into a comforting soup, it’s like finding that warm, fuzzy blanket on a chilly night.
I remember the first time I made this dish; my kitchen smelled like an Italian trattoria! Friends came over, and we shared bowls of this delightful soup, chatting and laughing until our bellies were full. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a party in a bowl that gathers everyone around the table. What’s amazing about Lasagna Soup is that it’s rich, hearty, and so simple to make—perfect for those busy weeknights or a cozy weekend gathering.
What’s in Lasagna Soup?
Ground Beef: The robust flavor of ground beef serves as the hearty base for the soup. I prefer using lean beef, around 80/20, to ensure it’s not too greasy but still flavorful.
Italian Sausage: Adding a bit of spicy Italian sausage elevates the flavors, giving the soup that lovely, authentic taste. If you’re not into spice, feel free to stick with mild sausage or even turkey sausage as a healthier option.
Onions and Garlic: These aromatics are essential! They bring warmth and depth to the soup and make your kitchen smell oh-so-good. Fresh garlic is always best, but feel free to use minced garlic from a jar if you’re in a pinch.
Crushed Tomatoes: For that rich tomato base, crushed tomatoes are perfect! They add sweetness and acidity. I like to opt for San Marzano tomatoes if I can find them—they’re the gold standard for Italian cooking.
Chicken Broth: The broth provides the soup with a comforting depth. Low-sodium broth is my go-to so that I can control the saltiness.
Lasagna Noodles: This is where the magic happens! You can use traditional lasagna sheets broken into pieces or even fettuccine or penne if that’s what you have around.
Ricotta Cheese: No lasagna is complete without ricotta! Stirring some into the soup just before serving brings creaminess and richness to the dish. You can also use cottage cheese as a lighter alternative.
Mozerella Cheese: What’s Italian cuisine without cheese? Topping your bowl with melty mozzarella cheese is an absolute must—it’s the grand finale that ties the whole dish together!
Is Lasagna Soup Good for You?
Absolutely! Lasagna Soup ticks many boxes when it comes to nutrition.
Ground Beef and Sausage: While they do provide protein and iron, they can also be high in saturated fats. Balancing this with leaner meats is a great way to keep it healthy.
Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, crushed tomatoes benefit heart health and may reduce the risk of certain cancers. Hello, nutritious goodness!
Cheese: While delicious, cheese can be calorie-dense, so use it wisely! You can control how much you add and still enjoy that lovely creamy texture.
Ingredients List
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Servings: About 6-8 servings
How to Make Lasagna Soup?
1. In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef and Italian sausage. Cook until browned, making sure to break up the meat as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Stir and cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Stir well, cover, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
5. While the noodles are cooking, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Remove the pot from heat, and spoon a generous dollop of ricotta cheese into each bowl of soup. Top it off with shredded mozzarella cheese and fresh basil if desired.
7. Serve hot, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of your Lasagna Soup!
Delicious Tips and Twists
– **Make it Vegetarian:** Swap the meat for your favorite plant-based protein, and add extra veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
– **Slow Cooker Version:** Brown the meat and add all ingredients into the slow cooker (except for the noodles and cheese). Cook on low for 6-8 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the noodles and let them cook until tender.
– **Make Ahead:** This soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead of time and reheat it for a quick meal.
If you haven’t tried making Lasagna Soup yet, now is definitely the time! I promise it will light up your kitchen with delightful aromas and fill your heart with joy. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out, so drop me a comment or take a picture of your culinary masterpiece! Enjoy!
