Lasagna Soup

This delectable lasagna soup recipe is an easy way to enjoy all the comfort of lasagna with minimal work. It’s saucy, cozy, and family-loved! Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, this dish promises a delightful blend of flavors that will satisfy everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This lasagna soup comes together in just 45 minutes, making it a quick option for dinner.
• Flavorful and Hearty: Packed with rich flavors from tomatoes and seasoned beef, each bowl is a comforting delight.
• Family-Friendly: It’s a sure hit with kids and adults alike, making it an ideal meal for the whole family.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this soup by adding your favorite vegetables or altering the protein.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less mess means more time enjoying your meal and less time cleaning up afterward.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to make the process smooth. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating this delicious lasagna soup!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: A sturdy pot ensures even cooking and can hold all the ingredients comfortably.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the best flavor balance in your recipe.

Ingredients

To make this delicious lasagna soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Base

• 1-2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or preferred oil)
• 1 pound Ground Beef
• 1 large Onion (diced)
• 4 cloves Garlic (minced)

For the Tomato Mixture

• 1 (15-ounce can) Diced Tomatoes (don’t drain)
• 1 (15-ounce can) Tomato Sauce (or tomato puree)
• 1/3 cup Tomato Paste (about half of a 6-ounce can)
• 4 cups Chicken Broth
• 1-2 cups Water (to adjust consistency)
• 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
• 1 teaspoon Sea Salt (or more as needed to adjust flavor)
• Black Pepper (to taste)

For the Pasta and Cheese Toppings

• 8 ounces Bowtie Pasta (uncooked)
• 1/2 cup Ricotta Cheese
• 2 ounces Mozzarella Cheese (shredded, about 1/2 cup)
• 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (shaved, shredded, or fresh grated)
• 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped)

How to Make Lasagna Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft.
• Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

• Add ground beef to the pot.
• Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon; about 7–10 minutes.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth

• Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chicken broth, water, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper.
• Bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

• Add uncooked bowtie pasta to the pot.
• Cook according to package instructions until al dente; approximately 10 minutes.

Step 5: Final Touches

• Reduce heat and stir in ricotta cheese until well combined.
• Serve hot with shredded mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley on top. Enjoy your hearty lasagna soup!

How to Serve Lasagna Soup

Lasagna soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal, here are some serving suggestions that will delight your family and friends.

Classic Topping

• Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Extra Cheese: Add more shredded mozzarella and Parmesan for a cheesy indulgence.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.

Salad Pairing

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the richness of lasagna soup nicely.
• Mixed Greens: Lighten your meal with a fresh mixed greens salad dressed in vinaigrette.

Accompanying Proteins

• Grilled Chicken: For added protein, serve grilled chicken slices alongside or on top of the soup.
• Garlic Shrimp: Garlic shrimp can add an elegant touch to your meal while enhancing flavors.

How to Perfect Lasagna Soup

Perfecting lasagna soup is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor significantly. Opt for ripe tomatoes and fresh garlic for the best results.
• Adjust Consistency: If your soup is too thick, add more water or broth until you reach your desired consistency.
• Layer Flavors: Sauté onions and garlic before adding them to the soup. This step builds a rich base for your dish.
• Taste As You Go: Always taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process. This way, you can achieve the perfect balance of flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Lasagna Soup

Pairing side dishes with lasagna soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
2. Caprese Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil adds brightness to your meal.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy crunch alongside the comforting soup.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes and basil makes a delightful appetizer.
5. Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft, cheesy breadsticks are great for soaking up every drop of soup.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and cured meats creates a flavorful starter option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making lasagna soup can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish.

• Bold flavoring: Many forget to season properly. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Bold pasta cooking: Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy texture. Add it in the last few minutes of cooking for the best results.
• Bold ingredient quality: Using low-quality canned tomatoes can ruin the flavor. Opt for high-quality brands for better taste.
• Bold broth choice: Not using flavorful broth is a mistake. Choose a good chicken broth to enhance the soup’s richness.
• Bold serving size: Misjudging portions can leave you with leftovers or not enough. Measure servings according to your needs.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store lasagna soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Lasagna Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will last up to 3 months.

Reheating Lasagna Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about lasagna soup that might help you cook this delicious dish.

What is Lasagna Soup?

Lasagna soup is a comforting dish that combines all the flavors of traditional lasagna in a hearty, soupy form.

How do I make Lasagna Soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of lasagna soup, simply substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I use different types of cheese in Lasagna Soup?

Yes! You can customize your cheese selection by using cottage cheese or vegan cheese alternatives based on your preference.

How can I make my Lasagna Soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, reduce the amount of broth used or add more tomato paste while cooking.

What are some great toppings for Lasagna Soup?

Consider topping your lasagna soup with fresh basil, extra mozzarella cheese, or crushed red pepper flakes for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

This lasagna soup recipe brings together all the flavors we love about traditional lasagna but simplifies the process. It’s perfect for family dinners and adaptable to your tastes. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or proteins to make it your own!