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
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant (about 3 minutes).
- 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.
- Stir in the tomato paste, cooking for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
Step 2: Build the Soup
- Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, broth, basil, oregano, and paprika. Stir well to combine.
- 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
- 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
- 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
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
- Add a dollop of the ricotta mixture to each bowl and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and remaining Parmesan.
- 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!