Hey there, I’m Clara! On busy weeknights, I know how hard it can be to get a comforting, home-cooked meal on the table. That’s why I’m so excited to share my Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe with you. It captures all the cozy flavors of classic lasagna but in a fraction of the time. Seriously, this delicious soup is ready in under an hour. It’s my go-to recipe when I need a hug in a bowl.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Quick Cooking Time: This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast. It’s ready in under an hour! For an even faster option, explore our Amazing Viral Lasagna Soup in Under 30 Minutes.
- Easy Cleanup: Fewer dishes than traditional lasagna? Yes, please! One pot for the soup, and a small bowl for the cheese topping—that’s it!
- Comforting Flavor: All the delicious flavors of lasagna, from the savory meat sauce to the cheesy topping, are captured in a warm, comforting soup.
- Family-Friendly Appeal: Even picky eaters will love this fun twist on a classic favorite. It’s always a hit in my house!
What is Lasagna Soup?
Lasagna soup is basically lasagna, deconstructed and served as a soup. It takes all the best parts of lasagna, like the rich tomato sauce, savory meat, tender noodles, and creamy cheese, and combines them into a warm and comforting bowl of soup. It’s a fun and easy way to enjoy the flavors of lasagna without all the layering and baking.
Ingredients for Easy Lasagna Soup
- 1/2 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground smoked beef bacon
- salt and freshly ground black pepper (, to taste)
- 1 yellow onion (, chopped)
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (, minced)
- 2 Tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 recipe homemade marinara sauce ((or 24 ounce marinara sauce))
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 Tablespoons fresh parsley (, chopped (or 2 tsp dried))
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried oregano
- 1 teaspoons dried basil
- 7 cups low sodium chicken broth ((or vegetable broth))
- 9 lasagna noodles (, broken into pieces)
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves ((optional),)
- 10 ounces ricotta cheese ((or cottage cheese))
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- fresh basil (, for serving)
Ingredient Sourcing
For the best flavor, I always recommend using high-quality ingredients. San Marzano tomatoes make a fantastic marinara sauce, whether you’re making your own or buying a jar. If you’re looking for a unique twist, try using smoked beef bacon; I like to source mine from local butcher shops. It adds a delicious smoky flavor that elevates the soup. Fresh herbs, like parsley and basil, can usually be found at your local grocery store or farmer’s market.
Equipment Recommendations
Having the right equipment can make all the difference when making soup. I love using an enameled cast iron Dutch oven because it distributes heat evenly and looks beautiful on the stovetop. Brands like Le Creuset and Staub are excellent, but they can be a bit pricey. A more budget-friendly option is a stainless steel stockpot; these are durable and easy to clean. Just make sure it’s large enough to hold all the ingredients for the soup.
How to Make Easy Lasagna Soup: Step-by-Step
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook ground beef and smoked beef bacon until browned. Season with salt and pepper as you cook. Drain grease and remove meat from the pot.
- In a large pot heat olive oil over medium heat. Toss in diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add in minced garlic and cook for another minute or two.
- Stir in tomato paste, marinara sauce, spices, and broth. Return meat to pot.
- Bring to boil then add lasagna noodles (broken into 4ths) to potand reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until noodlesare tender. Add spinach, if using.
- In a small bowl, stir together mozzarella, Parmesan and ricotta cheeses
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls, and dollop a scoop of the cheese mixture on top. Garnish with fresh basil
Variations of This Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe
Sometimes, I like to switch things up and add a little twist to my Easy Lasagna Soup. Here are a couple of my favorite variations:
| Variation | Ingredient Swap | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Spicy Lasagna Soup | Add 1-2 chopped chili peppers (like jalapeño) | Add the chili peppers when you sauté the onion and garlic for an extra kick. |
| Creamy Tomato Lasagna Soup | Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (dairy-free) | Stir in the cream or coconut milk during the last 5 minutes of cooking time, before adding the cheese topping, for a richer, creamier texture. |
Serving Suggestions for Easy Lasagna Soup
This soup is fantastic on its own, but it’s even better with the right pairings. I love serving it with a warm, crusty bread like a sourdough baguette for dipping into the flavorful broth. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the richness of the soup. As for wine, a Chianti or a light-bodied red would be a great choice.
Make Ahead Instructions
You can definitely make this soup ahead of time. Just prepare it according to the instructions, and let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep in mind that the noodles will continue to absorb liquid as it sits, so you may need to add a little extra broth when you reheat it to maintain the perfect soup consistency.
How to Store and Reheat Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe
To store leftover soup, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pour the soup into a pot and heat over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick and easy lunch.
Can You Freeze Lasagna Soup?
Yes, you can freeze lasagna soup! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Be sure to leave some room at the top, as the soup will expand as it freezes. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as directed above.
Troubleshooting Easy Lasagna Soup
- Soup is too thick: Add more broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Noodles are mushy: Be careful not to overcook the soup once the noodles are added. Cook until they are just tender.
- Soup is bland: Add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten it up.
Health Benefits of Lasagna Soup
This Easy Lasagna Soup isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients. Lean ground beef provides protein and iron, while the vegetables add vitamins and fiber. The herbs and spices not only enhance the flavor but also offer antioxidant benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do you thicken lasagna soup? If you want a thicker soup, you can stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) during the last few minutes of cooking.
- What goes well with lasagna soup? I love serving this soup with crusty bread, a simple side salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich.
- Is lasagna soup healthy? This soup can be a part of a healthy diet, as it contains protein, vegetables, and fiber. Just be mindful of portion sizes and choose lean ground beef.
- Can you make lasagna soup in a slow cooker? Absolutely! Brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients (except the cheese topping) and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the noodles during the last 30 minutes of cooking. For another comforting slow cooker meal, try our Simple Chicken Noodle Soup Crock Pot Recipe.
Amazing Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe for Weeknights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook ground beef and smoked beef bacon until browned. Season with salt and pepper as you cook. Drain grease and remove meat from the pot.
- In a large pot heat olive oil over medium heat. Toss in diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add in minced garlic and cook for another minute or two.
- Stir in tomato paste, marinara sauce, spices, and broth. Return meat to pot.
- Bring to boil then add lasagna noodles (broken into 4ths) to potand reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until noodlesare tender. Add spinach, if using.
- In a small bowl, stir together mozzarella, Parmesan and ricotta cheeses
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls, and dollop a scoop of the cheese mixture on top. Garnish with fresh basil
Notes
Conclusion
This Easy Lasagna Soup is a winner because it’s quick, comforting, and packed with flavor. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights when you want something delicious and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Give this recipe a try, and let me know what you think! Leave a comment below with your questions or share your results. Don’t forget to tag @CookingInspired in your social media posts so I can see your creations!
