Lasagna soup is the perfect comfort food that combines the hearty flavors of traditional lasagna with the simplicity of a soup. With rich, savory tomato broth, tender pasta, and a medley of cheeses, this recipe offers all the satisfaction of the classic dish but with a delightful twist. It’s warm, filling, and ideal for cozy dinners, especially during the colder months.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or preparing a quick weeknight meal, lasagna soup is a versatile dish that can suit any occasion. It’s easier to prepare than a layered lasagna, and the one-pot cooking approach saves time while maximizing flavor. You can make it ahead of time or whip it up fresh—it’s a crowd-pleaser no matter how you serve it.
What makes lasagna soup particularly special is its adaptability. You can tailor the recipe to your preferences by choosing different proteins, pasta shapes, or vegetables. The comforting aroma of simmering tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs fills your kitchen, making this dish an instant favorite for family meals and festive occasions alike.
Why You’ll Love This Lasagna Soup
This lasagna soup is packed with all the rich flavors of a classic lasagna but with much less effort. The combination of ground meat, creamy cheeses, and savory broth is irresistibly satisfying. It’s a one-pot wonder, which means fewer dishes and more time to enjoy the meal with loved ones.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to accommodate dietary needs or personal tastes. Opt for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or use plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian or vegan twist. The recipe is also freezer-friendly, making it perfect for meal prep.
The interactive element of lasagna soup sets it apart. Serve it with a dollop of ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, or freshly grated Parmesan, and let everyone customize their bowl. The melted cheese swirled into the hot soup creates a luscious, creamy texture that’s simply irresistible.
Preparation Time and Yield
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
Key Ingredients for Creamy Lasagna Soup
Rich Soup Base for Homemade Lasagna Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (or plant-based alternative)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons sugar (to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Choosing the Best Pasta for Your Lasagna Soup
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces (or 2 cups of any short pasta)
Flavorful Toppings for a Perfect Lasagna Soup Bowl
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Lasagna Soup
Step 1: Cook the meat and aromatics.
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain excess fat if necessary. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Build the soup base.
Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth to the pot. Stir well to combine. Add sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, then season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Cook the pasta.
While the soup is simmering, cook the lasagna noodles or pasta in a separate pot according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Combine the pasta and soup.
Add the cooked pasta to the soup just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy. Stir gently to incorporate.
Step 5: Serve with toppings.
Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with a dollop of ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of mozzarella, and freshly grated Parmesan. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Understanding the Essential Ingredients in Lasagna Soup
Olive Oil
The olive oil is used to sauté the meat and aromatics, providing a subtle richness and preventing sticking. Use a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
Ground Meat or Sausage
Traditional lasagna flavors come from the savory, seasoned meat. Ground beef offers a hearty base, while Italian sausage adds a spiced, aromatic touch. For a lighter or vegetarian option, ground turkey or plant-based alternatives work beautifully.
Tomatoes
A combination of crushed and diced tomatoes creates a hearty texture, while tomato paste intensifies the flavor. The sugar balances the acidity, ensuring a well-rounded taste.
Herbs and Spices
Basil, oregano, and garlic are the foundation of Italian cooking. These aromatics infuse the soup with warmth and depth. Crushed red pepper flakes add a hint of spice for those who enjoy a little heat.
Pasta
Lasagna noodles broken into pieces mimic the layered texture of traditional lasagna, but you can also use short pasta like penne or rotini for convenience.
Cheeses
Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan are the trifecta of cheeses that bring lasagna’s creamy, gooey goodness to the soup. Ricotta adds creaminess, mozzarella provides a melty texture, and Parmesan contributes a nutty, salty finish.
Pro Tips for Perfect Lasagna Soup Every Time
Fresh Ingredients for Aromatic Lasagna Soup
Sautéing fresh onions and garlic enhances the depth of flavor in your soup. Take your time with this step to let the natural sugars caramelize slightly.
Build Layers of Flavor
To achieve a rich, complex broth, cook the meat thoroughly and toast the tomato paste briefly before adding the liquids. This step deepens the flavor profile.
Cook Pasta Separately
Cooking pasta separately prevents it from absorbing too much broth and becoming overly soft. Add it to the soup just before serving for the best texture.
Balance Acidity
Tomatoes can be quite acidic, so a touch of sugar helps balance the flavors. Taste and adjust as needed.
Use High-Quality Cheese
Freshly grated Parmesan and good-quality ricotta and mozzarella make a significant difference in flavor. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain additives that affect melting.
Creative Ways to Serve and Enjoy Lasagna Soup
Layered Lasagna Bowl
Create a layered presentation by placing a dollop of ricotta cheese at the bottom of each bowl before ladling the soup over it. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan for an elegant twist.
Vegetarian Lasagna Soup
Skip the meat and load up on vegetables like zucchini, spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a wholesome, plant-based option.
Spicy Lasagna Soup
Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a fiery variation.
Cheesy Bread Pairing
Serve the soup with slices of garlic bread topped with melted mozzarella. The bread can double as a dipping tool.
Creamy Version
Stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk for a richer, creamier soup base.
How to Freeze and Store Homemade Lasagna Soup
Storing Leftovers
Proper storage ensures your lasagna soup retains its delicious flavor and freshness for days. After cooking, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This prevents condensation, which can alter the soup’s texture. Store the container in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to 4 days. For the best flavor, avoid storing the pasta in the soup, as it can absorb too much broth and become mushy. Instead, keep the pasta separate and add it when reheating.
Freezing the Soup
Lasagna soup is an excellent make-ahead dish for busy weeks. To freeze, leave out the pasta, as it tends to become overly soft when thawed and reheated. Pour the soup base into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Label the containers with the date to keep track of freshness. Properly stored, the soup base can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator, reheat, and cook fresh pasta to stir in before serving.
Reheating Tips
To reheat refrigerated soup, transfer it to a pot and warm it gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. If the soup thickens in the fridge, add a splash of broth or water to reach the desired consistency. For frozen soup, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. If you’re short on time, you can reheat frozen soup directly on the stovetop over low heat, but be patient as it will take longer. Add freshly cooked pasta and toppings, such as ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, right before serving to recreate that just-cooked texture and flavor.
Healthy Variations of Lasagna Soup for Every Diet
Use Whole Wheat Pasta
Swap regular lasagna noodles with whole wheat or high-fiber pasta options to add nutrients like fiber, iron, and protein. These healthier alternatives still maintain the hearty texture of traditional pasta, making the dish just as satisfying.
Go Lean with Protein
Choose ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef or sausage. Both options provide a lighter base while still delivering a robust, meaty flavor. For a vegetarian or vegan version, use plant-based ground meat or lentils.
Veggie-Packed Lasagna Soup for Extra Nutrition
Boost the soup’s nutritional value by adding an array of vegetables. Spinach, kale, zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms not only increase vitamins and minerals but also enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
Lighten the Cheese
Reduce the fat content by using part-skim ricotta and mozzarella instead of their full-fat counterparts. Alternatively, decrease the amount of cheese or replace it with a sprinkling of nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly option.
Low-Sodium Broth
Control the salt content by opting for low-sodium broth. This allows you to season the soup to your preference and makes it suitable for those monitoring their sodium intake.
Use Dairy Alternatives
For a dairy-free version, use almond or cashew-based ricotta substitutes. Coconut milk or cashew cream can add creaminess to the broth, creating a satisfying vegan alternative.
Adjust Portion Sizes
Serve smaller bowls with side dishes like salad or roasted vegetables to reduce calorie intake while enjoying the full flavor of the dish.
Serving Suggestions for Events
Lasagna Soup as a Holiday Dinner Starter
Lasagna soup is a fantastic starter for festive dinners or holiday celebrations. Serve it in smaller bowls as an appetizer, and pair it with a crusty bread basket for dipping. Add a festive garnish of fresh basil and Parmesan for a visually appealing presentation.
Casual Dinner Parties
Pair lasagna soup with a Caesar salad, garlic knots, or antipasto platters for an Italian-inspired meal that’s sure to impress. Offer a toppings bar with ricotta, mozzarella, and fresh herbs so guests can customize their bowls.
Game Day Feast
For a fun and interactive meal, serve lasagna soup alongside crusty bread or breadsticks. Let guests top their bowls with shredded cheese, a dollop of ricotta, or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor. This hands-on approach is a hit with both kids and adults.
Weeknight Comfort
This recipe is perfect for busy evenings. Serve it with a simple side of roasted vegetables, like zucchini or asparagus, for a balanced meal. Its one-pot nature makes cleanup a breeze, allowing you more time to relax with your family.
Family Potlucks
Lasagna soup travels well and is easy to keep warm in a slow cooker or insulated pot. Bring it to family potlucks, where it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Provide a loaf of freshly baked bread for dipping, and watch it disappear in no time!
Romantic Dinners
For a cozy date night, serve lasagna soup with a bottle of red wine and a mixed green salad. Garnish the bowls with fresh basil leaves and Parmesan for a gourmet touch that feels indulgent but is simple to prepare.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make lasagna soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the soup base ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To maintain the best texture, cook and add the pasta just before serving.
2. Can I freeze lasagna soup?
Absolutely. Freeze the soup base (without the pasta) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, reheat and add freshly cooked pasta for the best results.
3. What type of pasta works best for lasagna soup?
Broken lasagna noodles are traditional, but short pasta like penne, rotini, or bowtie pasta works just as well. Choose a pasta shape that holds the broth well.
4. How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make the soup vegetarian, omit the ground meat and use vegetable broth. You can add vegetables like zucchini, spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to make it hearty and flavorful.
5. Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free lasagna noodles or another gluten-free pasta option. Be sure to check that other ingredients, like broth and tomato products, are also gluten-free.
6. How can I make lasagna soup spicier?
For a spicier version, add extra crushed red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne pepper, or use hot Italian sausage instead of mild.
7. What can I serve with lasagna soup?
Lasagna soup pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, a fresh garden salad, or roasted vegetables. For a more indulgent meal, serve with cheesy breadsticks or a side of antipasto.
8. Can I substitute ricotta cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta cheese, cottage cheese is a good alternative. For a creamier option, use mascarpone cheese or a dollop of sour cream.
Conclusion
Lasagna soup is a delightful twist on a beloved classic, bringing the rich flavors of lasagna into an easy-to-make, comforting soup. With its hearty broth, tender pasta, and creamy cheese, it’s a dish that satisfies every time.
This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re preparing it for a festive occasion, a cozy family dinner, or a meal prep solution, lasagna soup fits the bill. Adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes and dietary needs, and let the toppings bring a customizable element to your table.
The warm, savory aroma of lasagna soup simmering on the stove is enough to bring everyone to the kitchen. It’s a dish that not only warms the body but also brings a sense of togetherness, making it a must-have in your recipe collection.