One Pot Lasagna Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Dish
Nothing warms the soul quite like a bowl of hearty soup, especially during the colder months. If you’re a fan of lasagna but dread the hassle of layering pasta and sauce, you’re in for a treat! Enter One Pot Lasagna Soup—a delicious, simplified version of the traditional Italian dish that combines all the comforting flavors of lasagna into a soup. Perfect for busy weeknights and ideal for leftovers, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why One Pot?
The beauty of the One Pot Lasagna Soup lies in its simplicity. Cooking everything in just one pot means fewer dishes to wash and less time spent in the kitchen. You can enjoy a hearty meal without the fuss of multi-step cooking. Plus, the flavors meld beautifully as everything simmers together, creating a rich, satisfying soup.
Ingredients
To make this delightful soup, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Soup Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (or a plant-based substitute)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Lasagna Experience:
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef or Italian sausage to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, crushed tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.
Season the Soup: Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Add the Noodles: Once boiling, add the broken lasagna noodles. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
Make it Creamy: Stir in the ricotta cheese until well combined. This step adds a creaminess that resembles traditional lasagna.
Top with Cheese: Once the soup is heated through, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan on top. Cover the pot for a few minutes until the cheese melts.
Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil. Enjoy the warmth and flavor of your One Pot Lasagna Soup!
Tips for Customization
Vegetable Variation: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition. Sauté them with the onions and garlic.
Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or use spicy sausage for a bolder flavor.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute coconut cream or a plant-based cheese for a dairy-free version of this dish.
Conclusion
One Pot Lasagna Soup is a delightful twist on a beloved classic. It’s simple to prepare, packs a punch of flavor, and is perfect for families and gatherings. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a dinner party, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy. So grab your pot and get ready to indulge in the comforting goodness of lasagna—without all the hassle. Enjoy your cooking!