Lasagna Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Experience the comforting layers of traditional lasagna in a warm and hearty soup form with this Lasagna Soup recipe. Packed with savory ground meat, rich marinara sauce, and melting cheese, this dish will warm your soul and bring joy to family dinners. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s the perfect twist on classic Italian comfort food that everyone will love.
This Lasagna Soup encapsulates the essence of home-cooked Italian meals, giving you the goodness of lasagna in a cozy soup format.
The Joy of Comfort Food
Comfort food has a unique ability to evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia. Lasagna Soup embodies this sentiment, merging the layers of traditional lasagna into a cozy bowl of deliciousness. Every spoonful is a reminder of home-cooked meals shared with loved ones. The balance of savory flavors, combined with the creamy texture, creates a satisfying experience that nourishes not just the body but the soul.
This dish is perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave a taste of Italy. Its rich, hearty appeal makes it an ideal option for family gatherings or intimate dinners. Lasagna Soup offers a delightful way to enjoy classic flavors in an innovative format, making it perfect for both seasoned chefs and novice cooks.
Customizing Your Lasagna Soup
One of the joys of making Lasagna Soup is the ability to customize it to your liking. Feel free to swap out the proteins: ground turkey or chicken can serve as lighter alternatives to beef or sausage. For a vegetarian version, simply replace the meat with a medley of your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms, for a satisfying veggie-packed dish.
Additionally, consider experimenting with various types of pasta beyond the traditional choices. Shells, penne, or even gluten-free options can add a unique twist to the recipe. Don’t hesitate to adjust the level of seasoning to suit your palate or add extra layers of flavor by incorporating different cheeses or spices. The possibilities are endless!
Lasagna Soup for Meal Prep
Lasagna Soup is also an excellent choice for meal prep. Its robust flavors often deepen after a day in the fridge, making it a perfect candidate for make-ahead meals. Prepare a large batch over the weekend and portion it out for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just reheat before serving, and enjoy the comforting taste of homemade soup without the extra effort on busy nights.
To store, allow the soup to cool completely and then transfer it to airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days or frozen for longer storage. Just remember to hold off on adding fresh basil until serving time to keep it vibrant and flavorful. This way, you can enjoy a taste of Italy any day of the week!
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 8 oz pasta (e.g., rotini or fusilli)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Gather these ingredients before you begin.
Instructions
Steps
Brown the Meat
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat and onion, cooking until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent.
Add Garlic and Liquids
Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute. Then, add the broth, diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil.
Cook the Pasta
Add the pasta to the boiling soup and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Add Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese until melted and well combined.
Serve and Garnish
Serve the soup in bowls, topping each with the remaining mozzarella cheese and fresh basil.
Enjoy your meal!
Storage Tips
To maximize the shelf life of your Lasagna Soup, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it into an airtight container. If stored properly in the refrigerator, the soup can last up to five days. For longer-term storage, consider freezing it in portions. This is ideal for busy weeks when a quick meal is needed.
When reheating frozen soup, it's best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, ensuring it is heated thoroughly before serving. Avoid bringing it to a rolling boil to preserve the creamy texture of the ricotta and mozzarella cheeses.
Serving Suggestions
When serving your Lasagna Soup, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad or crusty garlic bread. This enhances the meal and provides an extra nod to traditional Italian dining. A light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can complement the rich flavors of the soup beautifully.
Moreover, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can elevate the flavor profile, adding a touch of elegance. Don't forget to garnish with fresh basil just before serving to add a pop of color and freshness that enhances each bowl.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a healthier alternative.
Lasagna Soup
Experience the comforting layers of traditional lasagna in a warm and hearty soup form with this Lasagna Soup recipe. Packed with savory ground meat, rich marinara sauce, and melting cheese, this dish will warm your soul and bring joy to family dinners. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s the perfect twist on classic Italian comfort food that everyone will love.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 8 oz pasta (e.g., rotini or fusilli)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat and onion, cooking until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent.
Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute. Then, add the broth, diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil.
Add the pasta to the boiling soup and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese until melted and well combined.
Serve the soup in bowls, topping each with the remaining mozzarella cheese and fresh basil.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g