Lasagna Soup w/ Ricotta Cheese
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Experience the cozy comfort of Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Cheese, a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish. This hearty, savory soup combines layers of pasta, rich marinara sauce, and creamy ricotta, creating an irresistible meal that warms the soul. Perfect for cold evenings or family gatherings, this easy-to-make recipe will become a favorite in your household.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and hearty
- Quick and easy to make
- A unique twist on lasagna
- Perfect for gatherings
- Rich and creamy flavor
The Origins of Lasagna Soup
Lasagna, a staple of Italian cuisine, has withstood the test of time, delighting taste buds across generations. The origins of traditional lasagna trace back to Ancient Greece and Rome, where layers of pasta were first combined with meat and sauces. Over the years, Italian cooks have innovated, resulting in countless variations, including the cozy, comforting version known as Lasagna Soup. This delightful dish offers all the classic flavors of lasagna while presenting them in a warm, nourishing bowl, ideal for any occasion.
Lasagna Soup allows for culinary creativity. Whether you prefer a meat-based version or a vegetarian alternative, the beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. By using a variety of ingredients, you can customize your soup to fit your personal preferences. Just as traditional lasagna may vary by region, so too can Lasagna Soup reflect the flavors of your own kitchen. It's an exciting dish to experiment with, making it a favorite for home cooks.
Perfect Pairings for Your Lasagna Soup
When serving Lasagna Soup, consider pairing it with a slice of crusty garlic bread. The crunchy texture and aromatic flavors of garlic bread create a delightful contrast to the rich, creamy soup. It's perfect for soaking up those delicious brothy flavors. For a refreshing touch, a simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can brighten up the meal, balancing the richness of the soup.
To further enhance your dining experience, try pairing your Lasagna Soup with a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or a smooth Italian Sangiovese. These wines offer complementary flavors that elevate the intense tomato and herb notes found in the soup. The combination of warm comfort food and a glass of fine wine makes for a lovely evening gathering, whether it’s a cozy night in or a special family dinner.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers after enjoying Lasagna Soup, you’ll be pleased to know it stores well. Allow the soup to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Ensure to use freezer-safe containers, as this allows for easy reheating and enjoyment later on.
When it’s time to reheat, simply warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a little extra broth or water to maintain the desired consistency, especially if it has thickened in the fridge. For microwave reheating, transfer the soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat in intervals, stirring between. This will ensure that it warms evenly without overcooking.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
Cook the Sausage
In a large pot, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks.
Add Vegetables
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
Mix in Tomatoes and Broth
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Add Noodles and Spinach
Add the broken lasagna noodles and cook until tender, about 10 minutes. Stir in the fresh spinach until wilted.
Prepare Ricotta Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with a dollop of the ricotta mixture and shredded mozzarella cheese. Enjoy!
Variations to Try
Lasagna Soup offers numerous variations that cater to different dietary needs and taste preferences. For a meatless option, consider substituting the Italian sausage with chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or lentils. This not only adds nutritional value but also provides hearty texture to your soup. If you're a fan of spicy food, adding red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños can elevate the flavor profile and introduce a delightful kick.
Another fun variation is to play with the cheeses. While the traditional ricotta and mozzarella combination is delicious, experimenting with other cheeses can yield fantastic results. Combining goat cheese or even some smoked gouda can impart a unique flavor twist that surprises and delights your taste buds. Don't hesitate to personalize this dish; the options are endless and can cater to every palate!
Serve It Up!
When you're ready to serve Lasagna Soup, presentation can make a big difference. Ladle the soup into colorful bowls to enhance the experience. Garnish each bowl with fresh basil or parsley for an aesthetic touch. Additionally, consider placing additional cheese options on the table, allowing guests to personalize their soup with extra toppings. This adds an interactive element to your meal, making it both fun and delicious.
For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle some high-quality extra virgin olive oil on top just before serving. This finishing touch not only enhances the appearance but also adds a sleek and rich flavor that complements the dish beautifully. Enjoy your Lasagna Soup with friends and family, creating warm memories and delightful conversations with every spoonful.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer or have on hand.
→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just omit the sausage and use vegetable broth.
Lasagna Soup w/ Ricotta Cheese
Experience the cozy comfort of Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Cheese, a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish. This hearty, savory soup combines layers of pasta, rich marinara sauce, and creamy ricotta, creating an irresistible meal that warms the soul. Perfect for cold evenings or family gatherings, this easy-to-make recipe will become a favorite in your household.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
How-To Steps
In a large pot, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Add the broken lasagna noodles and cook until tender, about 10 minutes. Stir in the fresh spinach until wilted.
In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with a dollop of the ricotta mixture and shredded mozzarella cheese. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 15g