As I stirred the bubbling pot on the stove, the rich aroma of Italian herbs wafted through my kitchen, transforming it into a cozy trattoria. This Easy Cheesy Lasagna Soup Recipe is my answer to busy weeknights when comfort food is non-negotiable. With tender pasta nestled in a hearty tomato broth and savory chunks of ground beef, it offers all the indulgence of traditional lasagna while cutting down on prep time. Plus, it’s ready in under an hour, making it perfect for those evenings when you want a wholesome meal without hours spent in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this one-pot dish guarantees a warm, satisfying experience for everyone. Are you ready to dive into a bowl of bliss? Let’s get cooking!
Why will you crave this Lasagna Soup?
Simplicity: This recipe is delightfully straightforward, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time.
Rich, Hearty Flavors: The combination of savory beef, aromatic herbs, and creamy cheese creates a flavor explosion that warms the soul.
Flexibility: Whether you choose to cook on the stovetop or in an Instant Pot, this Lasagna Soup adapts to your schedule and kitchen tools.
Total Comfort: Imagine a cozy bowl filled with tender pasta and vibrant tomato broth—perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Quick Cleanup: Enjoy your meal without the daunting cleanup; it’s all made in one pot!
Pair it with some delicious crusty breadsticks for an unbeatable combination, or explore other comforting options like Soup Joumou Haitian or Cheeseburger Soup Comforting.
Lasagna Soup Recipe Ingredients
For the Base
- Olive Oil – Fat for sautéing; substitute with avocado oil, butter, or ghee if preferred.
- Ground Beef – Provides protein and richness; use 85/15 ground beef or swap for ground turkey/chicken, or skip for vegetarian using lentils.
- Minced Onion – Adds flavor base; shallots are a great alternative for a milder taste.
- Minced Garlic – Enhances overall flavor; fresh garlic cloves are always best for maximum taste.
For the Soup
- Crushed Tomatoes – Forms the soup base with acidity and sweetness; tomato puree or sauce can be used instead.
- Bay Leaf – Infuses a subtle herbal note; you can omit it if you don’t have any on hand.
- Dried Basil, Parsley, Oregano – Provide authentic Italian flavor; consider fresh herbs for a brighter taste.
- Black Pepper – Adds warmth; adjust according to your taste preference.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Optional spice enhancer; add according to desired heat level or omit entirely.
For the Broth
- Low Sodium Beef Broth – Liquid base for the soup; feel free to substitute with chicken or vegetable broth.
- Water – Used to dilute and balance out the broth.
For the Pasta
- Reginetti Pasta – The key carb element that mimics lasagna shape; broken lasagna noodles or mafaldine work wonderfully as alternatives.
For Garnish
- Ricotta Cheese – Optional for a touch of creaminess; omit for a dairy-free version or replace with non-dairy cheese.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a savory finish; adjust or skip according to dietary preferences.
This Lasagna Soup Recipe is sure to become a weeknight favorite, blending comfort with simplicity and hearty flavor!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Cheesy Lasagna Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Meat
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes. Once shimmering, add 1 pound of ground beef and cook for approximately 10 minutes, breaking it into chunks, until well browned and no longer pink. This step builds the savory foundation necessary for your delicious lasagna soup.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Stir in 1 diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves into the pot. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent. The fragrant aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling that it’s time to move on to creating the rich soup base.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
Pour in a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes, followed by 4 cups of low sodium beef broth and 1 cup of water. Add in a bay leaf, 1 teaspoon each of dried basil, parsley, and oregano, along with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste. Stir well and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, enhancing the flavors of your lasagna soup.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Once boiling, toss in 8 ounces of reginetti pasta (or your choice of pasta). Cook uncovered for about half of the pasta package’s recommended time, typically around 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the pasta to remain slightly undercooked, ensuring it absorbs more broth while finishing in the next step.
Step 5: Final Cook and Serve
Remove the pot from heat and let it sit uncovered for an additional 5 minutes; this helps the pasta to finish cooking to perfection. Afterward, discard the bay leaf and give the soup a final stir. Ladle the comforting Lasagna Soup into bowls, and sprinkle each serving with optional ricotta and grated Parmesan cheese, inviting warmth and satisfaction with every bite.
Lasagna Soup Recipe Variations
Feel free to make this comforting Lasagna Soup your own by mixing in these delicious variations!
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Sausage Swap: Replace ground beef with Italian sausage for a spicy twist that enhances the flavor profile beautifully.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to enjoy the same warm comfort without the gluten, perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
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Vegetable Boost: Add chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers while sautéing for an added nutrition boost that brings vibrant colors to the bowl.
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Creamy Version: Stir in heavy cream or a splash of half-and-half at the end for a luxuriously creamy finish, making each bite even more indulgent.
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Herb-Forward: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of typical Italian herbs; their aromas will elevate the overall experience.
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Mexican Flair: Spice things up by adding diced jalapeños and a sprinkle of taco seasoning for a delightful fusion of flavors.
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Seafood Surprise: For a unique twist, substitute ground beef with shrimp or crab, creating a coastal-inspired version that’s fresh and flavorful.
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Broth Base: Switch up the flavor by using chicken or vegetable broth instead of beef broth; this opens the door to new flavor complexities, making it lighter yet satisfying.
No matter how you customize this Lasagna Soup, it promises to deliver hearty comfort in every bite. Pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal, and don’t forget to explore other comforting soup options like Cheeseburger Soup Comforting or Soup Joumou Haitian!
Expert Tips for Lasagna Soup Recipe
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Undercook Pasta: Slightly undercook the pasta to absorb broth and prevent mushiness upon resting. This is a common mistake that can ruin the soup’s texture.
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Creamy Finish: Add ricotta cheese as a topping rather than mixing it into the soup; this prevents curdling and keeps it creamy.
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Stovetop Advantage: Opt for the stovetop method for the best pasta texture; if using an Instant Pot or crockpot, cook pasta separately to maintain integrity.
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Herb Freshness: For brighter flavors, use fresh herbs instead of dried ones. Adjust the quantity accordingly—doubling fresh herbs brings a vivacious taste.
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Meat Substitutions: Feel free to swap ground beef with Italian sausage for an extra flavor boost, or try lentils for a delicious vegetarian option.
What to Serve with Easy Cheesy Lasagna Soup?
As you savor each spoonful of this cozy soup, consider these delightful pairings to create a complete and comforting meal experience.
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Crusty Breadsticks: The perfect vessel for sopping up the delicious broth, these warm, buttery sticks add a satisfying crunch and indulgent touch.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light and refreshing contrast, this salad topped with a tangy vinaigrette balances the rich flavors of the soup, providing a crisp bite.
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Garlic Parmesan Knots: Soft and fluffy, these knots bring a burst of flavor and texture that compliments the savory soup, making every bite memorable.
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Cheesy Garlic Bread: Smothered in melted cheese and garlic, this irresistibly warm bread elevates the meal, allowing you to enjoy lasagna flavors in a delightful new format.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal, roasted veggies add depth and earthiness. Carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli are great choices to enhance the nutritional value and flavor profiles.
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Sweet Corn Muffins: Light and slightly sweet, these muffins offer a delightful contrast to the savory soup, perfect for dipping or enjoying on the side.
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Red Wine: A glass of smooth, full-bodied red wine brings an elegant touch to your meal, complementing the soup’s herbal notes while enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Tiramisu: Finish on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert. Its creamy texture and coffee flavor provide a lovely balance to the meal you’ve created.
With these pairings, you’ll have a complete dining experience that keeps everyone coming back for seconds!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Cheesy Lasagna Soup preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can sauté the ground beef, onions, and garlic up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating them in an airtight container. Additionally, you can mix the crushed tomatoes, broth, and spices (up to 3 days ahead), storing them separately. To finish your Lasagna Soup, simply combine the prepped ingredients in a pot, add the pasta, and cook until tender—this step only takes about 10 minutes. Remember to undercook the pasta slightly to absorb more broth when resting. This way, your comforting bowl of soup will be just as delicious as if you made it all at once!
Storage Tips for Lasagna Soup
Fridge: Store your Lasagna Soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze the soup in portions using freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Allow space for expansion as it freezes!
Reheating: To reheat, warm the soup in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if it appears too thick.
Serving Tip: For the best texture, avoid storing leftover soup with the pasta already mixed in; cook the pasta separately if you plan to store some for later.
Lasagna Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pasta for my Lasagna Soup?
For the best texture and absorption of flavors, I recommend using reginetti pasta, which resembles lasagna noodles. However, if you can’t find it, broken lasagna noodles or mafaldine work wonderfully too! Just ensure you cook the pasta slightly less than instructed to avoid mushiness.
How can I store leftovers of my Lasagna Soup?
You can store your Lasagna Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature first. For longer storage, the soup can be frozen in portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, warm gently in a saucepan or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a delicious vegetarian Lasagna Soup, simply substitute the ground beef with lentils or your favorite plant-based meat alternative. You can also load it up with vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini during the sautéing phase for added nutrition and flavor.
How do I avoid my pasta getting mushy when reheating?
To prevent mushiness, it’s best to store the pasta separately from the soup if you plan on having leftovers. If the pasta is already mixed in, try reheating it gently and adding a little water or broth to loosen it up. This way, you keep the pasta’s texture just right!
What if I have a nut allergy—can I modify the soup?
This Lasagna Soup recipe is naturally free of nuts, making it a great option for those with nut allergies. Just ensure that your broth, cheeses, and any added toppings are also free from nut-derived ingredients—always read labels carefully!
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If your Lasagna Soup turns out thicker than desired, you can easily adjust the consistency! Just add a bit of broth or water, stirring it in gradually until you achieve your preferred thickness. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed; there’s no such thing as too much flavor!
Savory Lasagna Soup Recipe: Comfort Food Delight in a Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes.
- Add ground beef and cook for about 10 minutes until browned.
- Stir in onion and garlic; sauté for 2-3 minutes until onion is soft.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes, broth, water, bay leaf, herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add pasta and cook uncovered for about 4-5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes. Discard bay leaf.
- Ladle into bowls and top with ricotta and Parmesan cheese.