Craving the comforting taste of lasagna without the hassle? This easy lasagna soup recipe is your answer! Packed with rich flavors, tender pasta, and gooey cheese, it offers all the beloved elements of classic lasagna in a quick and convenient bowl. Perfect for any night of the week, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the simple ingredients and steps to create this delicious meal.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 cups uncooked pasta (like rotini or shells)
– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 bowl) contains approximately 400 calories, 20g protein, 25g carbohydrates, 25g fat, and 5g fiber. This nutritional value is based on standard ingredient measurements.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef or sausage over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth, stirring to combine.
5. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and bring to a simmer.
6. Once simmering, add the uncooked pasta and cook until al dente, about 10 minutes.
7. In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper.
8. Serve the soup hot, topping each bowl with a dollop of ricotta and shredded mozzarella.
9. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for added flavor.
10. Enjoy your hearty lasagna soup with crusty bread or a side salad!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter version. Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option, or swap ricotta for cottage cheese for a different texture. Fresh spinach can also be added for more greens.
Serving and Pairings
This lasagna soup pairs beautifully with garlic bread, a simple green salad, or a side of roasted vegetables. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top enhances the flavor profile even further.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through. This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure you leave out the cheese until serving.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it will continue to soften in the soup.
- Be cautious with salt; the broth can be salty on its own.
- Skip the cheese until serving to prevent sogginess.
- Use fresh herbs for more vibrant flavor.
- Don’t rush the browning of the meat; it adds depth to the flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Prepare a double batch for easy lunches throughout the week.
- Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
- Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky taste.
- Add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the meat with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta shapes like rotini, shells, or elbow macaroni work best as they hold the sauce well.
Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the soup a day ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
How can I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra kick of heat.
Is it possible to freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just omit the cheese before freezing and add it when reheating.
Conclusion
This easy lasagna soup recipe is a delightful twist on the classic dish, offering simplicity without sacrificing flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. Enjoy the comforting blend of ingredients and the ease of preparation that makes this soup a family favorite!
Easy Lasagna Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups uncooked pasta like rotini or shells
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef or sausage over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth, stirring to combine.
- Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and bring to a simmer.
- Once simmering, add the uncooked pasta and cook until al dente, about 10 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Serve the soup hot, topping each bowl with a dollop of ricotta and shredded mozzarella.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves for added flavor.
- Enjoy your hearty lasagna soup with crusty bread or a side salad!
Nutrition
