Lasagna soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending the rich, cheesy goodness of traditional lasagna with the cozy, brothy warmth of a soup. Imagine all the classic lasagna flavors—savory ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, fragrant Italian herbs, and creamy cheese—coming together in a bowl of soul-satisfying goodness. It’s a dish that delivers everything you love about lasagna but in a fraction of the time and effort.
There’s something about this soup that makes it feel like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Whether you’re coming home from a long day at work, preparing a meal for your family, or looking for a dish that’s sure to impress guests, lasagna soup is the perfect choice. It’s a one-pot wonder, which means fewer dishes and a straightforward cooking process. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
The first time I made lasagna soup, I was skeptical. I wondered if it would truly capture the essence of traditional lasagna. But from the very first spoonful, I was hooked. The rich, savory broth combined with the tender pasta and the cheesy, melty topping was pure comfort in a bowl. My family loved it, and it quickly became a staple in our meal rotation. The best part? Unlike traditional lasagna, which can take hours to assemble and bake, this soup comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.
If you love the deep, layered flavors of lasagna but don’t always have the time to make it from scratch, this soup is a game-changer. It’s hearty, cheesy, and incredibly easy to make. Get ready to fall in love with a dish that’s as simple as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This lasagna soup recipe is packed with everything you love about lasagna, but it’s much easier to make. Here are a few reasons why you’ll want to add it to your list of go-to meals:
- One-Pot Convenience – Traditional lasagna involves multiple layers, baking dishes, and a significant amount of prep. This soup simplifies everything into one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
- Rich, Hearty Flavor – The combination of ground beef, tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning creates a deep, savory broth that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours.
- Perfect for Busy Weeknights – With a cook time of just 30 minutes, this is an ideal dish for nights when you want something homemade but don’t have much time.
- Customizable – You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences. Use ground turkey for a leaner version, add extra veggies for more nutrition, or swap out the pasta for a gluten-free alternative.
- Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will love this dish. The cheesy topping and flavorful broth make it a crowd-pleaser.
- Great for Leftovers – This soup stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. You can refrigerate or freeze portions for quick and easy meals throughout the week.
- Cozy and Comforting – There’s nothing quite like a hot bowl of lasagna soup on a cold evening. It’s warming, filling, and packed with nostalgic flavors.
If you’re looking for a dish that’s both indulgent and practical, this lasagna soup is a must-try. It’s a meal that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Health Benefits
While lasagna soup is undeniably a comfort food, it also comes with some surprising health benefits, especially when made with fresh, wholesome ingredients.
- Protein-Packed – Thanks to the ground beef and cheese, this soup is rich in protein, which helps with muscle repair and keeps you feeling full for longer. If you prefer a leaner option, using ground turkey or plant-based protein can make it even healthier.
- Rich in Lycopene – The tomatoes used in this recipe are a fantastic source of lycopene, an antioxidant known for its potential heart health benefits. Lycopene has been linked to reduced inflammation and improved cardiovascular health.
- Contains Essential Nutrients – The combination of onions, garlic, and parsley provides essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. These nutrients support immunity, bone health, and overall wellness.
- Balanced Carbs – While pasta adds carbohydrates to the dish, it also provides energy to keep you going throughout the day. If you prefer a lower-carb version, you can substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
- Calcium-Rich – The ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses contribute a good amount of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
- Gut-Friendly – The garlic and onions in this soup contain prebiotic compounds that help support a healthy gut microbiome, aiding digestion and overall gut health.
By making simple swaps, such as using whole wheat pasta, adding more vegetables, or opting for a leaner protein, you can make this soup an even healthier choice without sacrificing flavor.
Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information
Total Preparation Time: 30-40 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings
Calories per Serving: Approximately 450-500 kcal (varies based on toppings and ingredient adjustments)
Macronutrients per Serving:
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 45-50g
- Fats: 15-20g
This soup is designed to be filling and satisfying while providing a balance of macronutrients. If you want to adjust the calorie content, you can modify the ingredients accordingly, such as using leaner meat or reducing the cheese portion.
Ingredients List
For the Soup:
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (do not drain)
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce (or tomato purée)
- 3 oz tomato paste (about ¼ cup)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or beef broth for a richer flavor)
- 1-2 cups water (to adjust consistency)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
- Black pepper, to taste
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (or other sturdy pasta)
For the Toppings:
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- 2 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded (about ½ cup)
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
These simple ingredients create a flavorful, well-balanced soup. If you prefer, you can add extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for additional nutrients and texture.
Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Base
Start by heating olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, then continue cooking until the onions are soft and translucent, about 3 more minutes. If there’s excess grease, drain it carefully before proceeding.
Step 2: Build the Flavor
To the pot, add the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Stir everything together to combine. Pour in the chicken broth and 1 cup of water, then add the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes to develop the flavors.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Once the broth has had a few minutes to simmer, add the uncooked bowtie pasta. Increase the heat slightly to bring the soup to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover loosely. Let the pasta cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking. If the soup becomes too thick, add additional water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the hot soup into bowls, then top each serving with a spoonful of ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and fresh parsley. The cheese will melt slightly, creating a creamy, decadent topping. Serve immediately while hot.
How to Serve
Lasagna soup is a complete meal on its own, but the right accompaniments can take it to the next level. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, here are some great ways to enjoy it:
- With Crusty Bread – A warm, crusty baguette or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the rich, flavorful broth. The crispy exterior and soft interior make every bite even more satisfying.
- Over Cooked Pasta – While the soup already contains pasta, you can serve it over additional cooked noodles for a heartier dish. This works especially well if you want a more traditional lasagna feel.
- With a Side Salad – A fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup. A mix of arugula, spinach, or romaine with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon dressing makes a refreshing side.
- With Roasted Vegetables – Oven-roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms complement the Italian flavors of the soup and add an extra layer of texture.
- Topped with Extra Cheese – A sprinkle of additional Parmesan, a dollop of ricotta, or a bit of shredded mozzarella just before serving makes the soup extra indulgent.
- With Breadsticks or Dinner Rolls – Soft, buttery rolls or crispy breadsticks are another great way to enjoy this dish. They add a nice contrast to the soup’s texture.
This soup is best enjoyed hot, with the cheese melting into the broth and creating a creamy, cheesy topping. Serve it in deep bowls to capture all the delicious flavors, and don’t forget a spoon for scooping up every last bite.
Pairing Suggestions
Lasagna soup is already packed with bold flavors, so choosing the right beverage or side dish can enhance the meal even further. Here are some pairing suggestions to complement the richness of this dish:
Beverages:
- Sparkling Water with Lemon – A refreshing, light drink that helps balance the richness of the soup.
- Freshly Squeezed Lemonade – The acidity of lemonade cuts through the hearty tomato-based broth.
- Iced Tea – A lightly sweetened or unsweetened iced tea pairs well with the robust flavors of the soup.
- Apple Cider – A warm or chilled apple cider adds a touch of sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory elements of the dish.
- Herbal Tea – A mild chamomile or mint tea can be a soothing, non-caffeinated option that complements the meal.
Side Dishes:
- Antipasto Platter – A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, roasted red peppers, and cheese makes for a fantastic starter before the soup.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze add a light, refreshing contrast to the soup’s warmth.
- Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil enhances the Italian flavors in the soup.
- Garlic Green Beans – Lightly sautéed green beans with garlic and olive oil provide a healthy and flavorful side option.
- Roasted Potatoes – Crispy, herbed potatoes offer a comforting, satisfying side that pairs well with the soup.
These pairings ensure that the meal is well-rounded, offering a variety of textures and flavors to complement the rich, cheesy soup.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions
One of the best things about lasagna soup is that it stores well, making it a great option for meal prep. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat it for the best taste and texture.
Refrigerating Leftovers
- Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Keep the toppings (ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan) separate to avoid them dissolving into the broth.
Freezing Instructions
- If you plan to freeze the soup, it’s best to leave out the pasta when cooking. Pasta can become mushy when frozen and reheated.
- Instead, cook and store the pasta separately and add it to the soup after reheating.
- Pour the cooled soup into a freezer-safe container, leaving a little room for expansion.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
- From the Refrigerator: Pour the soup into a pot and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it has thickened, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it.
- From the Freezer: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stove over medium heat. Alternatively, heat it directly from frozen by simmering it on low until warmed through.
- In the Microwave: Place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
For the best taste and texture, always add fresh pasta and cheese toppings after reheating to preserve their consistency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though this lasagna soup is easy to make, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Overcooking the Pasta – Pasta continues to absorb liquid even after cooking. To prevent it from becoming too soft, cook it al dente and serve the soup immediately.
- Skipping the Simmering Step – Allowing the soup to simmer for at least 5 minutes after adding the broth helps develop the rich, deep flavors.
- Using Too Much Liquid – The soup should be thick and hearty, not watery. If it looks too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to thicken.
- Not Draining Excess Fat – After browning the beef, drain any excess grease to prevent the soup from becoming too oily.
- Forgetting to Season Properly – Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor.
Avoiding these mistakes will ensure that your lasagna soup is flavorful, well-balanced, and satisfying.
Pro Tips
Here are some expert tips to make this dish even better:
- Use Fire-Roasted Tomatoes – For a richer, smokier flavor, swap regular diced tomatoes for fire-roasted ones.
- Toast the Spices – Sauté the Italian seasoning in the pot for a few seconds before adding liquid to enhance its aroma and depth of flavor.
- Make It Extra Creamy – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of mascarpone cheese for a creamy, luxurious texture.
- Layer the Cheese Like Traditional Lasagna – Instead of just sprinkling cheese on top, stir a little into the soup for a gooey, cheesy consistency.
- Add More Veggies – To boost nutrition, throw in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini towards the end of cooking.
These small tweaks can elevate the soup and give it a unique, restaurant-quality touch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles, lentils, or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.
What pasta works best for this soup?
Bowtie pasta, rotini, or broken lasagna noodles work best because they hold up well in the broth without becoming too soft.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and onions first, then transfer everything except the pasta to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding the pasta in the last 30 minutes.
How can I make the soup spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
Is this soup gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta or substitute it with zucchini noodles.
Conclusion & Call to Action
Lasagna soup is the perfect comfort meal, combining all the best parts of traditional lasagna into a warm, hearty bowl. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners.
If you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out! Share your experience in the comments, and if you make any customizations, I’d love to hear about them. Don’t forget to take a picture and tag me on social media—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Enjoy!
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Lasagna Soup: A Hearty, Cheesy, and Comforting One-Pot Meal
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
Description
This easy and comforting lasagna soup has all the classic flavors of traditional lasagna but in a simple, one-pot soup form. It’s loaded with hearty ground beef, a rich tomato broth, tender pasta, and a cheesy topping. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in under 40 minutes and is great for meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 3 oz tomato paste
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1–2 cups water (as needed)
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp sea salt (adjust to taste)
- Black pepper, to taste
- 8 oz bowtie pasta
Toppings:
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- 2 oz shredded mozzarella
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Base: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, onions, and garlic. Cook until beef is browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Build the Flavor: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer for 5 minutes.
- Cook the Pasta: Add bowtie pasta and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust thickness with extra water if needed.
- Serve & Garnish: Ladle soup into bowls and top with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and fresh parsley. Serve hot.
Notes
- Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based protein for a leaner or vegetarian version.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or cayenne.
- If freezing, leave out the pasta and add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian