How to Prepare Lasagna Soup

If you love lasagna but are short on time or want something lighter, lasagna soup is the perfect alternative! This one-pot dish combines all the rich, comforting flavors of traditional lasagna—meaty sauce, melty cheese, and tender pasta—but in a cozy, hearty soup form. Quick to make and endlessly customizable, it’s a family-friendly recipe you’ll want to add to your weekly rotation.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 500g ground beef or Italian sausage (or a mix)
  • 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
  • 1 liter chicken or beef broth
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp paprika (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

For the Pasta and Cheese:

  • 8 lasagna sheets, broken into pieces (or any short pasta like penne)
  • 150g ricotta cheese
  • 100g mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 50g Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Base

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant (about 3 minutes).
  2. Add the ground beef or sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat if needed.
  3. Stir in the tomato paste, cooking for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Step 2: Build the Soup

  1. Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, broth, basil, oregano, and paprika. Stir well to combine.
  2. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Add the Pasta

  1. Stir in the broken lasagna sheets (or your chosen pasta). Cook according to the package instructions, usually 8–10 minutes, until the pasta is tender.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

  1. In a small bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with half of the Parmesan and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

  1. Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
  2. Add a dollop of the ricotta mixture to each bowl and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and remaining Parmesan.
  3. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips for Perfect Lasagna Soup

  • Make it ahead: Prepare the soup base in advance, and add the pasta just before serving to avoid sogginess.
  • Add greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrients.
  • Vegetarian option: Replace the meat with mushrooms or lentils, and use vegetable broth.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this lasagna soup with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for chilly nights or when you need a quick comfort food fix!

Enjoy this warm, cheesy bowl of lasagna-inspired goodness—bon appétit!

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