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Lasagna Soup

Lasagna Soup

Lasagna Soup is a comforting, hearty twist on classic Italian lasagna, combining tender pasta, savory ground meat or sausage, Italian herbs, and melted cheeses in a rich tomato-based broth. Quick to prepare and perfect for cozy evenings, this one-pot soup delivers the layered flavors of traditional lasagna in an easy-to-eat bowl.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Aromatics

  • 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Base and Seasonings

  • 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)

Pasta

  • 1 cup uncooked small pasta shapes (ditalini, small shells, or broken lasagna noodles)

Cheeses

  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Brown the Meat and Aromatics: Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the ground beef or Italian sausage. Cook, breaking up the meat as it browns. When almost cooked through, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and the onion is translucent, creating a savory base for the soup.
  2. Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth of your choice. Stir in Italian seasoning, fresh basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
  3. Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked pasta directly into the simmering soup. Cook according to package directions until al dente, usually about 7 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  4. Add Cheese and Finish: Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in dollops of ricotta cheese for creaminess. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan on top and stir just enough to melt the cheese slightly, adding richness without losing texture.
  5. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use small or broken pasta shapes so they fit nicely on a spoon and cook evenly.
  • Aim to cook pasta al dente initially, as it will continue to soften in the hot soup.
  • Fresh herbs like basil and oregano brighten and balance the rich meat flavors.
  • Layer cheeses by adding creamy ricotta first, then mozzarella and Parmesan for gooey, savory peaks.
  • Allow the soup to rest a few minutes before serving to let flavors meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: Lasagna soup, Italian soup, comfort food, easy dinner, pasta soup, one pot meal, weeknight dinner