There’s something truly comforting about a steaming bowl of Savory Italian Lasagna Soup. It’s the perfect antidote to a chilly evening or a busy weeknight when the thought of assembling lasagna feels like too much work. This dish melds the classic flavors of lasagna into a broth that warms your soul. Each spoonful is rich with ground sausage or beef, melting cheeses, and just the right amount of herbs, creating a hug in a bowl that invites you to take a moment and savor the experience.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
What makes this lasagna soup a must-try? Let’s start with its incredible versatility. It’s quick to whip up, which means you can serve it any night of the week — a comforting weeknight dinner or a casual family brunch that feels special without demanding too much of your time. Plus, it’s a family-approved dish that kids love, making it a winning meal for households both large and small.
But don’t just take my word for it. One happy cook stated, “This dish has quickly become a family favorite! It’s delicious, filling, and I love that I can have lasagna flavors in less than 30 minutes!”
Step-by-Step Overview
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Picture this: you’ll start by sautéing some onions and garlic until they’re fragrant, just enough to bring a smile to your face. Then, cook your choice of ground meat until it’s perfectly browned. After that, toss in some crushed tomatoes and beef broth along with a sprinkle of herbs. The best part? You’ll stir in broken lasagna noodles and let it simmer, allowing them to soak up all that wonderful flavor.
Once you’ve mastered the base, it’s time to add a creamy ricotta mixture for that lasagna essence. Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh mozzarella and basil — and watch as everyone digs in!
What You’ll Need
Here’s the list of all the ingredients that come together to create this masterpiece:
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can switch out the ground meat for turkey or venturing into veggie territory with mushrooms for a lighter twist!
Directions to Follow
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, taking care to stir frequently so it doesn’t burn.
- Next, add the ground beef or Italian sausage. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Bring this lovely mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, add in the broken lasagna noodles. Lower the heat and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
- In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan. Set this aside.
- After the noodles have cooked to your liking, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the creamy cheese mixture until well blended and slightly melted.
- Serve the soup in bowls, topped with the remaining mozzarella cheese and fresh basil leaves. Enjoy!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
To make your lasagna soup experience even better, consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. You could go the extra mile and top it with an extra drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes for those who like a little heat. Pairing it with a light white wine or sparkling water can elevate even a simple weeknight meal into something that feels a bit special.
How to Store & Freeze
Leftovers? No problem. Just allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. If you choose to freeze, be aware that the noodles might soften a bit, but a quick reheating on the stovetop can help restore some of the texture. Always reheat thoroughly to ensure food safety!
Helpful Cooking Tips
Here are a few of my favorite tidbits to make your lasagna soup even better:
- For added depth of flavor, sauté a few more spices like smoked paprika or a bay leaf while you’re cooking the onions.
- If you’re feeling particularly indulgent, try adding a splash of cream to the soup at the end to make it even richer.
- Experiment with different types of cheeses, such as fontina or provolone, to discover your preferred flavor profiles and textures.
Creative Twists
While this recipe is certainly delicious as-is, don’t be afraid to make it your own! You can add vegetables like spinach or zucchini to sneak in some greens. For a spicier kick, try adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Alternatively, for a meat-free variation, use lentils or a hearty vegetable mix instead of meat.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
From start to finish, you’ll want to carve out about 30-40 minutes, making it a perfect option for a weeknight dinner.
Can I substitute the beef with something else?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives will work beautifully here.
Is it safe to freeze the soup?
Yes, but keep in mind that the quality of the noodles may change after freezing. However, the flavor remains delicious!
Enjoy creating this hearty Savory Italian Lasagna Soup — it’s a recipe that encourages everyone to gather around the table and enjoy a moment of shared warmth and joy. Don’t forget to garnit with fresh basil for that lovely aromatic finish!
