Lasagna Soup Hearty Meal for Cozy Nights

January 9, 2026April 3, 2025 by Chef Remy

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 lb ground beef or turkey

– 1 medium onion, finely diced

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

– 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces

– 1 cup ricotta cheese

– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Lasagna soup has some key ingredients that make it hearty and tasty. You can use either ground beef or turkey. Both add great flavor. Onions and garlic give the soup depth. Crushed tomatoes form the soup base, while lasagna noodles make it filling. The cheeses create a creamy topping that melts beautifully.

Seasoning and Broth

– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning blend

– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

For flavor, I use an Italian seasoning blend. It gives the soup that classic taste. Chicken or vegetable broth adds richness. If you like spice, add red pepper flakes for a kick. This combination of seasonings makes the soup warm and inviting.

Garnishing Elements

– Fresh basil leaves

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Fresh basil leaves add a pop of color and flavor. It makes each bowl look fresh and appealing. Don’t forget to season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. These simple touches make all the difference in taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Meat and Aromatics

First, I heat a large pot over medium heat. I add one pound of ground beef or turkey. Cook the meat, breaking it up, for about five to seven minutes. The meat should be brown and fully cooked. Drain any fat to keep the soup light. Next, I add one finely diced onion to the pot. I sauté it for about three minutes. The onion should become soft and translucent. Then, I add three cloves of minced garlic. I cook it for one more minute. This step releases the garlic’s lovely aroma.

Combining Liquids and Seasonings

Once the onions and garlic are ready, I pour in one can of crushed tomatoes and four cups of chicken or vegetable broth. I stir well to mix everything. Then I sprinkle in two teaspoons of Italian seasoning and half a teaspoon of red pepper flakes if I want some heat. I also add a good pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper. I let this mixture simmer gently for a few minutes.

Adding Lasagna Noodles

Now it’s time for the noodles. I break eight ounces of lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces. I add them to the pot. I cook the noodles according to the package instructions, which usually takes about eight to ten minutes. I stir occasionally to stop them from sticking together. I aim for the noodles to be al dente, as they will soften more when served.

Preparing the Cheese Mixture

While the noodles cook, I make the cheese mix. In a bowl, I combine one cup of ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella (which is one cup), and half a cup of grated Parmesan. I stir these together until they are creamy and smooth. This adds a rich texture to the soup.

Serving the Soup

When the noodles are just right, I ladle the hearty soup into deep bowls. I top each bowl with a generous dollop of the cheese mixture. Then, I add the remaining mozzarella on top. Finally, I garnish each bowl with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

– Adjusting cooking times for noodles: Lasagna noodles need to cook just right. Follow the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes is best. Check for al dente texture. This means they should be firm but not hard. They will soften a little more once you serve them, so don’t overcook them in the pot.

– Preventing a watery soup: To keep your soup thick, use less broth if you want a richer dish. You can also add more cheese to help with consistency. If you find your soup too thin, let it simmer longer to evaporate excess liquid.

Serving Tips

– Best types of bowls for presentation: Use deep, rustic bowls for serving. They hold heat well and look inviting. The shape also allows for a good mix of soup and toppings.

– Adding olive oil or extra cheese: Drizzle a little high-quality olive oil on top before serving. It adds flavor and a nice sheen. You can also sprinkle more grated Parmesan cheese for a delicious finish. This extra touch makes your dish feel gourmet and special.

Variations

Meat Alternatives

You can swap ground beef or turkey for ground chicken. This change makes the soup lighter. You can also use plant-based options like lentils or crumbled tofu. Both choices add protein and keep the dish hearty.

Vegetable Additions

Adding veggies makes this soup even better. Try incorporating spinach or mushrooms into the pot. These add flavor and nutrition. If you want, substitute with other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. Just chop them up small so they cook evenly.

Cheese Variants

Cheese is key to making lasagna soup tasty. You can mix different cheeses for a unique flavor. Try using provolone or gouda with mozzarella. If you’re avoiding dairy, opt for vegan cheese. It melts well and keeps the soup creamy.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To store your lasagna soup, let it cool first. Place it in a container with a tight lid. Glass or plastic containers work well for this. Make sure to store it in the fridge. Enjoy your leftovers within three to four days. This will keep the soup fresh and tasty.

Freezing Instructions

For long-term storage, you can freeze lasagna soup. First, let it cool completely. Then, pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. Label the bags with the date before sealing. When you are ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge.

To reheat, pour the soup into a pot over low heat. Stir often to keep it from sticking. You can also use the microwave. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps keep the texture nice and creamy. Enjoy your cozy meal!

FAQs

How can I make lasagna soup vegetarian?

To make lasagna soup vegetarian, simply skip the meat. Use mushrooms for a hearty texture. You can also add lentils for protein. Increase the amount of veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. These will add flavor and nutrition. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a richer taste.

Can I prepare lasagna soup in advance?

Yes, you can prepare lasagna soup in advance. Cook the soup, then let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to three days. For best results, add noodles just before serving. This keeps them from getting too soft. You can also freeze the soup for up to three months. Just reheat it slowly on the stove.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

If you don’t have ricotta cheese, try cottage cheese. It gives a similar creamy texture. You can also use cream cheese for a richer flavor. Blending silken tofu can make a great dairy-free option. Add some herbs to mimic the ricotta taste.

In this post, we explored how to make a delicious lasagna soup. We covered essential ingredients like ground meat, veggies, and cheese, along with seasonings and garnishes. The step-by-step instructions guided you through cooking and serving the dish. I shared tips for storage, variations, and answered common questions.

This soup is easy to customize to fit your taste. Don’t hesitate to experiment with ingredients and make it your own. Enjoy this cozy meal with friends and famil