Easy Lasagna Soup: A Comforting One-Pot Delight

Lasagna is a beloved classic in the culinary world, but what if you could enjoy all the rich flavors of lasagna in a simple, convenient soup form? Welcome to Easy Lasagna Soup, a delightful twist on the traditional recipe that combines all the elements you love about lasagna—pasta, cheese, herbs, and hearty tomato sauce—into a cozy bowlful. This recipe takes the classic lasagna flavors and transforms them into a quick, one-pot meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: With minimal prep time and easy cooking steps, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your delicious creation!
• Customizable: You can easily adapt the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Comfort Food: This soup embodies the warmth and comfort we seek in a hearty dish, making it ideal for chilly nights.

Ingredients

To make this comforting lasagna soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Soup:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option)
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)

For the Cheese Mixture:

• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg (optional, for creaminess)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

Add the ground beef or sausage to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Incorporate the Noodles

Once boiling, add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.

Step 5: Add Greens

If you’re including spinach or kale, stir it into the soup just a few minutes before serving to allow it to wilt.

Step 6: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and egg (if using). Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

To serve, ladle the soup into bowls and dollop with the cheese mixture on top. Optionally, sprinkle additional mozzarella and parsley for garnish.

Tips and Variations

• Vegetable-Loaded: Add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to increase the nutrition and flavor.
• Pasta Alternatives: Use gluten-free noodles to make this dish suitable for gluten sensitivities.
• Storing Leftovers: This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth to prevent it from thickening too much.

Conclusion

Easy Lasagna Soup is a delightful recipe that encapsulates all the charm of traditional lasagna but in a simple, warm and comforting bowl of soup. It’s perfect for quick dinners, great for leftovers, and sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Embrace the convenience and savor the wholesome flavors that make this dish a family favorite! Enjoy your cooking!