Lasagna is a beloved comfort food, but it often requires quite a bit of effort to prepare. If you love the flavors of lasagna but want something easier and quicker, this Lasagna Soup is the perfect solution. It delivers all the hearty goodness of the traditional dish in a single pot with minimal fuss. The combination of savory meat, rich tomato broth, and cheesy goodness makes for a warm and satisfying meal. This soup is ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, bringing together classic Italian flavors in a way that’s both simple and delicious. Plus, it’s a versatile dish—adjust the spice levels, swap out ingredients, or even make it vegetarian with a few modifications. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving a hearty meal, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (such as broken lasagna noodles)
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Directions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up as it browns. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Add the uncooked pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Remove the pot from heat and gently fold in the ricotta cheese, ensuring it blends well into the broth.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each with shredded mozzarella cheese and fresh basil leaves. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutritional Insights and Dietary Considerations:
This soup is a well-balanced dish, providing protein from the meat and cheese, healthy fats, and carbohydrates from the pasta. It’s a filling and satisfying meal while still being lighter than a traditional baked lasagna. If you prefer a leaner option, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or use a plant-based meat substitute. You can also make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. To lower the sodium, opt for low-sodium broth and avoid adding too much extra salt. If you’re looking to add more vegetables, toss in spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients.
Sharing and Commenting is Caring
Food is best enjoyed when shared! If you try this Lasagna Soup, let us know what you think in the comments. Did you make any custom tweaks to the recipe? We’d love to hear about your variations and creative additions. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family—someone out there might be looking for the perfect comfort food tonight!