If you are craving the comforting flavors of a classic lasagna but want something quicker and cozier, this Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe is an absolute game changer. Imagine all the cheesy, meaty, and herby goodness of traditional lasagna in a warm, hearty bowl of soup. It’s perfect for any day you want a satisfying meal without the fuss of layering noodles and waiting forever in the oven. One pot, minimal cleanup, and maximum comfort—that’s what makes this soup a new favorite for family dinners and casual get-togethers alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this recipe, yet it’s wonderfully simple! Each element plays a special role in building layers of flavor and texture—from the tender ground meat to the melty cheeses and fragrant herbs that bring it all together.
- Olive oil: This provides the perfect base for browning your meat and sautéing aromatics, adding depth without overpowering.
- Ground beef or ground turkey: Your main protein that adds heartiness and savory richness to the soup.
- Medium onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and a mild bite once softened, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the broth with that irresistible aromatic punch we all love in Italian dishes.
- Chicken or vegetable broth: Forms the flavorful, savory base of the soup, bringing everything together in liquid harmony.
- Diced tomatoes (canned): They add bright acidity and a lovely texture that mimics the layers in traditional lasagna.
- Tomato sauce: Deepens the tomato flavor, making the soup robust and saucy without being too watery.
- Italian seasoning: The blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme gives that classic Italian depth and warmth.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle heat that gives the soup an exciting little kick without overpowering the other flavors.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all the natural flavors and balance the soup perfectly.
- Lasagna noodles (broken into bite-sized pieces) or short pasta: This makes the soup feel like lasagna you can sip, giving chewiness and comfort in every spoonful.
- Ricotta cheese: Added before serving to bring creaminess and that signature lasagna texture to the soup.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, stringy goodness for that irresistible cheesy layer.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled in to add a sharp, nutty depth that rounds out the dish wonderfully.
- Fresh basil or parsley (chopped, for garnish): Herbs freshen the finished dish with a pop of color and fragrance.
How to Make Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add your ground beef or turkey and use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks until nicely browned. This step is crucial because it develops deeper flavors and creates the foundation you want in this soup. Drain any excess fat afterward to keep things from feeling greasy.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Next, toss in the chopped onion and let it cook until it softens and turns translucent, about five minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for just another minute until fragrant. This simple blend of onions and garlic softens their sharpness and builds an aromatic base that will infuse the entire soup.
Step 3: Add Tomato Base and Seasonings
Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Stir in the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes if you want a touch of heat, plus salt and pepper to taste. Bring everything to a simmer and let the flavors marry. This step really starts to give the soup its characteristic rich and comforting Italian flavor.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Add the broken lasagna noodles or your preferred short pasta directly into the pot. Cook them for about 10 to 12 minutes until they’re al dente. Be sure to stir occasionally so the noodles don’t stick to the bottom of the pot. This step transforms the soup from a broth with bits into a filling meal that feels just like eating lasagna in a bowl.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese
Right before serving, stir in the ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese. They’ll melt into the hot soup, creating creamy pockets of cheesy goodness that elevate the dish’s richness and mimic the luscious layers of traditional lasagna. Taste at this point and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
How to Serve Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped basil or parsley sprinkled on top adds an inviting pop of green color and fresh herbaceous notes that brighten up the rich soup. You can also drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of more Parmesan for an elegant finish that’s instantly comforting and restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with warm, crusty bread or garlic breadsticks to soak up every flavorful drop. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can balance all the richness and add some crispness for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or just treat yourself, serve the soup in individual bowls with a dollop of ricotta on top and a sprinkle of extra cheese and herbs. Adding a Parmesan crisp on the side or a small spoonful of pesto is a fun way to jazz things up. Even serving it in hollowed-out bread bowls creates an unforgettable presentation that’s perfect for cozy dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld even better the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup for up to 2 months. For best results, leave out the cheeses when freezing and add them freshly when reheating to maintain that creamy texture. Freeze in portioned containers so you have easy meals ready to go anytime.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add the cheeses just before serving to keep everything melty and delicious. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, simply add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat instead of ground beef or turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken, pork, or even a mix of sausage and beef works wonderfully in the Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe. Each protein adds its own delicious twist while keeping the dish hearty.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the ground meat for a plant-based alternative or extra vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a meatless yet flavorful version.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
You sure can. Brown the meat and sauté the aromatics first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add the cheeses just before serving for the best creamy texture.
What type of pasta works best if I don’t have lasagna noodles?
Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or even broken spaghetti work great. Just keep the cooking time in mind so the pasta doesn’t overcook and become mushy.
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta noodles instead of lasagna noodles and double-check that your tomato sauce and broth are gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy all the comfort without gluten concerns.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe truly brings all the warmth and heart of your favorite Italian classic in a much quicker, cozy bowl. It’s easy to make, endlessly satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. Trust me, once you try this, it might become your go-to comfort meal that you’ll want to share with everyone you love.
Print
Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Easy Lasagna Soup is a comforting and hearty Italian-inspired dish that combines all the classic flavors of lasagna in a warm, tasty soup. Featuring ground meat, tomato sauce, lasagna noodles, and a blend of cheeses, this recipe is perfect for a cozy meal that’s quick and simple to prepare on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta
- 6 lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces (or 1 1/2 cups of your favorite short pasta)
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat if needed to keep the soup light.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, ensuring the soup has a rich base of flavor.
- Add Tomato Base and Seasonings: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes if using, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to develop the flavors.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the broken lasagna noodles or preferred short pasta to the soup pot. Cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking, until the pasta is al dente and tender.
- Finish with Cheese: Just before serving, stir in the ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow the cheeses to melt into the hot soup, creating a creamy texture. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a fresh touch.
Notes
- Use ground turkey for a lighter, leaner option or ground beef for richer flavor.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth.
- Red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted based on your preferred spice level.
- For thicker soup, reduce the broth amount slightly or add more pasta.
- Lasagna noodles can be substituted with any short pasta, like penne or rotini, broken into smaller pieces for ease of eating.
