When the chill of autumn settles in, there’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a warm bowl of soup. Imagine sinking into your favorite chair, a hearty bowl of Easy Lasagna Soup in hand, and feeling the world melt away with each delicious spoonful. This dish brilliantly captures all the cozy flavors of traditional lasagna but skips the tedious layering, making it the perfect weeknight dinner solution.
In less than 45 minutes and all in one pot, this rich tomato broth, hearty pasta, and three types of cheese create a quick and satisfying meal your whole family will love. Whether you’re winding down after a hectic day or entertaining friends, it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together. Ready to indulge in a bowl of pure comfort? Let’s dive into this simple recipe that transforms everyday ingredients into something truly remarkable!
Why is Lasagna Soup a must-try recipe?
Simplicity at Its Best: This Lasagna Soup is made in just one pot, allowing you to savor the flavors without the fuss of layering traditional lasagna.
Quick Prep: Ready in under 45 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without lengthy preparation.
Crowd-Pleaser: With its rich tomato broth and melty cheeses, this dish warms up the hearts of everyone at the table, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your choice of meat or pasta, making it easy to adapt to your family’s preferences or dietary needs.
Comfort Food Redefined: Each spoonful showcases the classic flavors of lasagna, providing a nostalgic comfort that surely satisfies those evening cravings.
For even more delicious ideas, check out our best homemade soup recipes.
Lasagna Soup Ingredients
To get started on this hearty dish, here’s everything you’ll need.
For the Soup
- Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing the beef and veggies, adding depth to the soup’s flavor; a neutral oil can work too.
- Ground Beef – The traditional choice for lasagna flavor; turkey or chicken are great alternatives if preferred.
- Onion – Offers sweetness and richness; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
- Garlic – Enhances aroma and adds a robust flavor; fresh garlic clove or garlic powder are both options.
- Diced Tomatoes – Forms the soup’s base; crushed tomatoes can be substituted for a smoother consistency.
- Tomato Sauce – Boosts richness and helps thicken the soup; tomato puree can also be a solid alternative.
- Tomato Paste – Concentrates tomato flavor and aids in thickening; using marinara sauce is a quick swap.
- Chicken Broth – Provides essential liquid for cooking; vegetable broth works for a vegetarian version.
- Italian Seasoning – Infuses classic Italian flavors; consider fresh basil and oregano for a vibrant touch.
- Sea Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust to your taste preference.
- Bowtie Pasta – Its sturdy shape holds up well during cooking; feel free to use rigatoni or penne instead.
For the Cheese
- Ricotta Cheese – Adds richness and creaminess; cottage cheese is a good replacement if desired.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Brings that gooey, melty texture; shredded cheese is best for even melting.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds a delightful sharp flavor; fresh grated or shaved is fantastic for garnish.
For Garnishing
- Fresh Parsley – Brightens up the dish and adds freshness; basil or spinach can also be used as alternatives.
With these Lasagna Soup ingredients, you’re all set to create a delicious and warm dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
How to Make Lasagna Soup
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Heat the Oil: Begin by heating a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and let it shimmer, creating a flavorful base for your soup.
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Sauté the Beef: Next, sauté the ground beef with the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
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Mix the Base: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, tomato paste, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper. Combine well to ensure all flavors meld together.
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Add the Pasta: Once combined, toss in the bowtie pasta. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce it to a gentle simmer.
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Cook Until Tender: Allow the soup to simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until the pasta is tender. Stir frequently to prevent sticking, and add water or broth as needed for your desired consistency.
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Serve and Enjoy: Finally, serve the hot soup in bowls. Stir in ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese directly into the soup, or offer them on the side. Garnish each bowl with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Lasagna Soup
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Pasta Perfection: To maintain the best texture, serve the Lasagna Soup shortly after cooking. Pasta absorbs broth over time, making it mushy.
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Thicker Broth: For a heartier soup, choose crushed tomatoes instead of diced. This creates a rich, velvety texture.
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Reheating Wisdom: When reheating leftovers, add extra broth or water to restore its consistency. This prevents the soup from becoming too thick.
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Custom Flavoring: Experiment with your choice of ground meat! Using Italian sausage infuses the soup with a delightful, spicy flavor.
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Vegetable Boost: Incorporate some greens like spinach or zucchini for added nutrients without compromising on taste.
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Cheese Choices: While ricotta is a classic choice, don’t hesitate to mix in other cheeses. A blend of gouda or fontina can elevate the flavors!
Storage Tips for Lasagna Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can keep it handy for quick meals throughout the week.
Freezer: Freeze Lasagna Soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 90 days. Consider dividing it into single servings for convenient reheating later.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then reheat on the stove over medium heat. Add extra broth or water to restore the soup’s consistency as needed.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Lasagna Soup out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain freshness and safety.
What to Serve with Lasagna Soup?
Imagine savoring that warm bowl of savory goodness while extending the experience with delightful sides that complement every spoonful of your Easy Lasagna Soup.
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Homemade Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted with garlic butter, it’s a crunchy delight to dip into the rich broth, enhancing the meal’s comfort level.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and croutons provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup, balancing flavors beautifully.
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Steamed Broccoli: Tender broccoli adds a nutritious green element to your meal. Its subtle bitterness complements the soup’s rich tomato sweetness.
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Italian Roasted Vegetables: Tossed with olive oil and herbs, these colorful veggies bring a burst of flavor and vibrant texture that pairs beautifully with the soup.
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Parmesan Crisps: For an extra touch of indulgence, these crispy bites make a fantastic crunchy topping. They add a salty, cheesy flavor that enhances the overall experience.
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Red Wine: When sipping this hearty soup, a glass of red wine, like Chianti or Merlot, elevates the flavors and brings a touch of elegance to dinner.
Let these delightful pairings create a memorable meal experience that wraps you in warmth and comfort!
Lasagna Soup Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to personalize your Lasagna Soup experience with these delicious variations that will tickle your taste buds and adapt to your kitchen whims!
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Italian Sausage: Swap ground beef for Italian sausage to infuse your soup with a delightful and slightly spicy flavor profile. This twist brings a new zest to the dish that everyone will love!
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Zucchini Noodles: Replace bowtie pasta with spiralized zucchini for a lighter, gluten-free option. This veggie-packed twist adds a lovely freshness while still holding all those delicious flavors.
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Spinach Boost: Add a handful of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking. It wilts beautifully, adding both vibrant color and nutrition to your bowl of comfort.
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Cheesy Blend: Mix in a combination of mozzarella and provolone cheeses for a creamier, more decadent result. Each bite will be gooey and unforgettable!
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Fire it Up: For a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while simmering. This spice will kick your soup up a notch for those who enjoy a little extra warmth.
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Vegetable Medley: Introduce a mix of bell peppers, diced carrots, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor. These vegetables will deepen the richness and make your soup even heartier.
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Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving for an irresistibly creamy texture. This is perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave extra comfort.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary alongside the Italian seasoning. This fragrant addition will elevate the aromatic experience and delight your senses.
Customize your Lasagna Soup with these variations, and watch it become your go-to dish for warm, foodie joy!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Lasagna Soup preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can sauté the ground beef, onions, and garlic up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator to save time on busy weeknights. Additionally, you can mix the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and chicken broth together and store this base in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain the best quality, be sure to refrigerate any prepped components separately to prevent the pasta from getting soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy your Easy Lasagna Soup, simply heat the base on the stove, add the sautéed meat mixture, stir in the pasta, and cook until tender. This way, you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal with minimal effort and maximum comfort!
Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of tomatoes should I use for the best flavor in Lasagna Soup?
For the richest flavor, I recommend using diced tomatoes with their juice, as they provide a robust base for the soup. If you prefer a smoother texture, crushed tomatoes work beautifully as an alternative. Remember, the key is to select high-quality canned tomatoes, as they significantly enhance the overall taste of your dish.
How should I properly store leftover Lasagna Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up! If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 90 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and reheat over medium heat on the stove, adding extra broth or water to adjust the consistency as needed.
Can I freeze Lasagna Soup, and if so, how?
Absolutely! Freezing Lasagna Soup is a great way to save a delicious meal for later. First, allow the soup to cool to room temperature. Next, portion it into airtight freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, leaving some headspace to allow for expansion. Label with the date, and pop it in the freezer for up to 90 days. When you’re ready to indulge, simply transfer the container to the fridge to thaw overnight, then reheat on the stove with a splash of broth to bring it back to life!
What can I do if my Lasagna Soup turns out too thick?
If your soup becomes too thick, don’t worry! This can happen if the pasta absorbs too much of the broth as it sits. To fix this, simply add more chicken broth or water while gently reheating, stirring until you reach your desired consistency. Always taste and adjust the seasoning after adding additional liquid, as you may need to enhance the flavors again.
Is this Lasagna Soup suitable for dietary restrictions like gluten-free or dairy-free?
Yes! To make this Lasagna Soup gluten-free, simply swap the bowtie pasta for a gluten-free pasta option available in most grocery stores. For a dairy-free version, substitute the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan with plant-based cheese alternatives. It’s a flexible recipe, and you can always enrich it with vegetables like spinach or zucchini to suit your dietary needs while keeping that comforting flavor!
Hearty Lasagna Soup: Easy Comfort in One Pot Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by heating a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and let it shimmer.
- Sauté the ground beef with the chopped onions and minced garlic until browned and onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper. Combine well.
- Toss in the bowtie pasta, increase the heat to bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
- Allow the soup to simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until the pasta is tender.
- Serve hot, stirring in ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, or offer them on the side. Garnish with fresh parsley.
