The Ultimate Lasagna Soup Recipe
Lasagna has long been a beloved comfort food for many, but have you ever considered transforming this traditional dish into a warm, hearty soup? Our Ultimate Lasagna Soup combines all the flavors of classic lasagna with the ease and warmth of a cozy bowl of soup. Perfect for chilly nights or whenever you’re craving something truly satisfying, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed (you can use ground beef or turkey as alternatives)
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (cavatappi or fusilli work well)
For the Ricotta Topping:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Add the Italian sausage to the pot, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Build the Soup
To the pot, add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), chicken or vegetable broth, tomato paste, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Add the Pasta
Once the soup is simmering, add the uncooked pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Prepare the Ricotta Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. This will serve as our delightful topping!
Step 6: Serve
Once the pasta is cooked, ladle the soup into bowls. Add a generous dollop of the ricotta mixture on top, followed by a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a touch of color and flavor.
Enjoying Your Lasagna Soup
This delicious Lasagna Soup is packed with comforting flavors and a delightful mix of textures. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Tips for Success:
- Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or skip it entirely and add more veggies like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Make it Ahead: This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can also be frozen for longer storage. Just be careful, as pasta may become mushy when reheating—consider cooking it separately if you plan for leftovers.
- Top It Off: Get creative with your toppings! Consider adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
Conclusion
Lasagna Soup offers all the comfort of traditional lasagna with the added coziness of a soup. It’s easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting dinner guests, this recipe will impress everyone at the table. So grab your ingredients and bring a touch of Italy into your home with this warm, delicious dish! Enjoy!