The Lasagna Soup Recipe is pure comfort in a bowl, perfect for those cozy evenings when you crave all the rich, hearty flavors of lasagna without the fuss of layering noodles and sauce. This vibrant soup captures the essence of classic lasagna with juicy ground beef, savory tomato broth, tender pasta, and plenty of melty mozzarella, making every spoonful a warm hug. Whether you’re new to soup or a seasoned home cook, this recipe is a delightful way to enjoy lasagna in a whole new, delightful form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple ingredients, this Lasagna Soup Recipe comes together effortlessly, each component adding its own magic to the dish. From rich beef to fragrant herbs and gooey cheese, every bite is a celebration of familiar flavors in a fresh, comforting format.
- Ground beef: Provides the hearty, meaty base that makes the soup feel indulgent and satisfying.
- Onion: Adds subtle sweetness and depth when softened with garlic.
- Garlic: Infuses the soup with aromatic, classic Italian flavor.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the soup its unmistakable zest.
- Salt: Enhances all the savory flavors and balances the acidity of tomatoes.
- Black pepper: Adds a touch of warmth and mild heat.
- Diced tomatoes: Bring vibrant color and tangy freshness to the broth.
- Tomato sauce: Creates a rich, smooth tomato base that ties the soup together.
- Beef broth: The flavorful liquid that forms the hearty soup foundation.
- Uncooked pasta: Turns tender in the soup, mimicking lasagna noodles in bite-sized form.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top, adding creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Fresh basil: For garnish, delivering a bright, herbal punch that finishes the dish perfectly.
How to Make Lasagna Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and cooking the ground beef until it’s nicely browned and flavorful. Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant. This step is crucial because the caramelized beef combined with tender onions and garlic creates the foundational flavor that carries through the whole soup.
Step 2: Add Seasonings and Tomatoes
Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to infuse the beef and aromatics with warm, herbal notes. Then, pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This melding of tomato-rich liquids and savory broth is where the soup’s classic lasagna taste really starts to shine.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta in the Broth
Next, add the uncooked pasta directly into the simmering broth. Let it cook until tender according to the package instructions. Cooking the pasta right in the soup means it soaks up all the delicious flavors, creating a comforting, noodle-filled meal that’s reminiscent of traditional lasagna noodles but much easier to enjoy.
Step 4: Serve with Cheese and Basil
Once the pasta is perfectly tender, ladle the soup into bowls. Generously top each serving with shredded mozzarella cheese while the soup is still hot so it melts into gooey, cheesy perfection. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil for a beautifully fresh and fragrant touch that brightens every spoonful.
How to Serve Lasagna Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil is the classic garnish that brings color and herbaceous brightness, but you can also add a dollop of ricotta or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for extra creaminess and depth. A crack of black pepper on top adds a subtle finish that heightens the overall flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair this soup with crusty garlic bread or a warm baguette to soak up every last drop of the rich broth. A simple green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette also complements the hearty soup nicely, offering a refreshing counterpoint to the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Lasagna Soup Recipe in mini bread bowls for an inviting presentation that doubles as an edible container. You could also layer the soup in transparent mugs or glasses to show off the colorful layers of pasta, tomatoes, and melted cheese for a visually stunning appetizer or comfort meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your soup, any leftovers can be transferred to an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be mindful that the pasta may absorb some broth and become thicker overnight, so you might want to add a splash of broth or water when reheating.
Freezing
This Lasagna Soup Recipe freezes well, but to maintain the best texture, it’s advisable to freeze the meat and broth mixture separately from the pasta if possible. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and combine fresh pasta or reheat with added broth for softness.
Reheating
Gently reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat to keep the beef tender and prevent the pasta from overcooking. Stir occasionally and add a little water or broth if the soup seems too thick. Always top with fresh mozzarella and basil after reheating for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey is a leaner alternative that works well in this recipe. Just be sure to brown it fully for good flavor and adjust seasoning as needed to keep the richness.
What type of pasta works best in Lasagna Soup Recipe?
Small to medium-sized pasta like ditalini, small shells, or elbow macaroni work best since they cook quickly and fit nicely on a spoon, closely mimicking the texture of broken lasagna noodles.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, this Lasagna Soup Recipe isn’t spicy by default. However, if you like a kick, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with hearty vegetables or plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a satisfying vegetarian version.
How long does it take to make this soup?
The entire cooking process takes about 35 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
Final Thoughts
This Lasagna Soup Recipe is a wonderful way to warm your soul with familiar flavors in a cozy, comforting bowl. It’s simple enough for anytime, yet special enough to impress family and friends. Give it a try soon—you might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy lasagna!
Print
Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This hearty Lasagna Soup combines all the comforting flavors of classic lasagna in a warm, cozy bowl. Ground beef, Italian seasonings, tomatoes, and pasta come together in a savory broth, topped with melty mozzarella and fresh basil for a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
Pasta and Toppings
- 1 cup uncooked pasta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the Meat and Saute Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Seasonings and Liquids: Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir to combine everything evenly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked pasta directly into the simmering soup. Cook according to the pasta package instructions, typically about 7-8 minutes, until the pasta is tender but firm to the bite.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls, topping each serving with shredded mozzarella cheese and chopped fresh basil for added flavor and freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage for ground beef for a different flavor profile.
- Use gluten-free pasta if you want to make this recipe gluten-free.
- If the soup thickens too much after adding pasta, add extra beef broth or water to reach desired consistency.
- Fresh basil adds brightness, but you can also use dried basil if fresh isn’t available.
