Easy Lasagna Soup: A Cozy Twist on a Classic Favorite
When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring comfort and satisfaction. If you love lasagna but want to skip the time-consuming layering process, we have the perfect solution for you: Easy Lasagna Soup! This delightful dish combines all the flavors of traditional lasagna into a hearty, hearty soup that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Simple: Unlike traditional lasagna, which can take hours to prepare, this easy lasagna soup can be whipped up in less than an hour.
- Flavorful and Satisfying: With rich tomato sauce, savory Italian herbs, and gooey cheese, this soup has the same comforting flavors you love in lasagna.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.
Ingredients
To make this Easy Lasagna Soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb. ground beef (or Italian sausage, turkey, or a plant-based alternative)
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz.) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 2 cups lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 2 tsp. dried oregano
- 2 tsp. dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 (15 oz.) container ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Meat and Vegetables
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once the meat is fully cooked, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 2: Add Tomato and Broth
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef or vegetable broth, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it bubble away for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Add the Noodles
Once the soup is simmering, add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Continue to simmer until the noodles are tender, which will take about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Incorporate the Cheese
Once the noodles are cooked through, reduce the heat and stir in the ricotta cheese until everything is well combined and creamy. This will give the soup that classic lasagna creaminess.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the lasagna soup into bowls and top with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese. For an extra touch of flavor and color, sprinkle fresh basil on top before serving. Enjoy your bowl of comfort!
Tips for Making the Perfect Lasagna Soup
- Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the ground meat with extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!
- Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove and enjoy!
Conclusion
Easy Lasagna Soup is a fantastic way to enjoy the beloved flavors of lasagna in a comforting and convenient form. It’s quick to make, packed with flavor, and sure to satisfy everyone at your table. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. So grab your ingredients and get ready to warm up with a hearty bowl of Easy Lasagna Soup!