Lasagna Soup w/ Ricotta Cheese
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Savor the warm, comforting flavors of this Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Cheese, a delightful twist on a classic favorite. This easy and hearty dish features layers of pasta, rich marinara sauce, and creamy ricotta, all simmered together for a soul-warming bowl of goodness. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, it's a family-friendly recipe that brings the joy of lasagna into a delicious soup form.
A Hearty Twist on Tradition
Lasagna soup takes the beloved Italian classic and transforms it into a comforting bowl of goodness. The familiar flavors of lasagna—savory meat, rich marinara, and creamy cheese—combine beautifully in this easy-to-make soup. Not only does it provide all the satisfaction of lasagna, but it also offers the convenience of a one-pot meal, perfect for those busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
This dish caters to all ages, making it a fantastic option for family dinners. Children and adults alike will appreciate the familiar tastes presented in a fun and unique format. Plus, the melty cheese and hearty noodles are bound to bring smiles to the dinner table, ensuring that every bowl is happily devoured.
Customization for Every Palate
One of the best aspects of lasagna soup is its versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients to accommodate personal tastes or dietary restrictions. For a vegetarian version, simply replace the meat with an array of your favorite vegetables or plant-based protein. Swap out the pasta for gluten-free options to cater to those with gluten sensitivities.
Adding extra herbs or even a splash of red wine can elevate the flavors further, giving this dish a personal touch. Whether you prefer it spicy with some added red pepper flakes or extra cheesy with more mozzarella, lasagna soup can be your canvas to deliciousness.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Lasagna soup is an excellent choice for those looking to prep meals in advance. It stores well in the fridge and can even be frozen for later enjoyment. By preparing a large batch, you can have easy, ready-to-eat meals on hand for busy days. Just reheat and serve for immediate comfort food satisfaction.
For optimal results, consider slightly undercooking the pasta if you plan to freeze the soup. This way, the noodles won’t become mushy when reheated. It’s a smart strategy that ensures the texture remains enjoyable, making each bowl just as good as when it was first made.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients to make this comforting Lasagna Soup.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (lasagna noodles broken into pieces)
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all the ingredients well before starting the cooking process.
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your Lasagna Soup.
Brown the Meat
In a large pot, over medium heat, brown the ground beef or sausage with the diced onion and garlic until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Add Tomatoes and Broth
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, broth, and dried basil. Bring to a simmer.
Cook the Pasta
Add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Prepare the Ricotta
In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with salt and pepper.
Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a spoonful of ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan before serving.
Enjoy your comforting bowl of Lasagna Soup!
Serving Suggestions
Lasagna soup is delightful on its own, but pairing it with a fresh side salad can enhance the meal further. A crisp Caesar or mixed greens salad offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup. Add a slice of crusty garlic bread for a hearty and filling experience that mimics traditional lasagna dinners.
Consider garnishing your bowls with fresh basil or parsley for an added pop of color and flavor. These simple touches can elevate the presentation and make the meal feel even more special.
Storage Tips
To store leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Properly stored, it can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, portion the soup into smaller containers before freezing to make reheating easier.
When it comes to reheating, use a saucepan over medium heat or a microwave, ensuring you stir it well to distribute the heat evenly. If the soup thickens too much during storage, simply add a splash of broth or water while warming.
Nutritional Benefits
Lasagna soup can be a nutritious option, especially when made with lean meats and fresh ingredients. Each serving is packed with protein from the meat and cheese, and tomatoes provide a good source of vitamins A and C. The addition of broth contributes hydration and flavor without adding many calories.
When selecting your ingredients, opt for low-sodium broth and organic tomatoes to minimize preservatives and maximize health benefits. By incorporating fresh herbs, you will not only enhance the taste but also gain additional vitamins and antioxidants, making this dish as nutritious as it is delicious.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, feel free to substitute with any short pasta you have on hand.
→ Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time and reheat it before serving.
Lasagna Soup w/ Ricotta Cheese
Savor the warm, comforting flavors of this Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Cheese, a delightful twist on a classic favorite. This easy and hearty dish features layers of pasta, rich marinara sauce, and creamy ricotta, all simmered together for a soul-warming bowl of goodness. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, it's a family-friendly recipe that brings the joy of lasagna into a delicious soup form.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6.0
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (lasagna noodles broken into pieces)
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, over medium heat, brown the ground beef or sausage with the diced onion and garlic until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, broth, and dried basil. Bring to a simmer.
Add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with salt and pepper.
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a spoonful of ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 15g