Lasagna Soup Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the taste of lasagna to bring warmth and comfort to your dining table, but what if you could enjoy all of its delicious flavors in a hearty, easy-to-make soup? This Lasagna Soup Recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, providing all the rich, savory taste of traditional lasagna with a fraction of the effort. Loaded with tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a medley of cheeses, this soup is a family favorite that’s sure to satisfy. Let’s dive into how to create this delightful dish.

Ingredients Breakdown

To make the most delicious lasagna soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1-2 tablespoons Olive Oil: For sautéing and adding a touch of flavor.
• 1 pound Lean Ground Beef: The base protein for the soup; feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• 1 large Onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the soup.
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced: Provides a robust, aromatic flavor.
• 1 (15-ounce) can Diced Tomatoes: Adds texture and a fresh tomato taste.
• 1 (15-ounce) can Tomato Sauce or Tomato Puree: Creates a rich tomato base.
• ½ (6-ounce) can Tomato Paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the soup.
• 4 cups Chicken Broth: Provides a savory foundation; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• 1-2 cups Water, as needed: Adjusts the consistency of the broth to your preference.
• 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that adds classic Italian flavors.
• 1 teaspoon Sea Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the soup.
• Black Pepper to taste: Adds a touch of heat and spice.
• 8 ounces Bowtie Pasta (uncooked): Gives the soup its lasagna-like texture; feel free to use any pasta shape you like.

Lasagna Soup Toppings

• ½ cup Ricotta Cheese: Adds creaminess and a mild flavor.
• 2 ounces Mozzarella Cheese, shredded (about ½ cup): Melts beautifully, providing that classic cheesy pull.
• ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese, shaved, shredded, or freshly grated: Offers a salty, nutty contrast.
• ¼ cup Fresh Parsley, chopped: Brightens the dish with color and a fresh, herbal note.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Heat the Oil: Start by heating a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil and wait until it shimmers. This ensures the oil is hot enough to properly sauté the ingredients.
2. Cook the Ground Beef, Onions, and Garlic: Add the lean ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the beef is fully cooked and the onions are soft and translucent, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If there is excess fat, drain it carefully to keep the soup from becoming too greasy.
3. Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
4. Bring to a Boil and Add the Pasta: Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil. Add the uncooked bowtie pasta, then reduce the heat to a medium simmer. Let the soup cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
5. Adjust the Broth: As the pasta cooks, it will absorb some of the broth. Add water in small amounts to reach your desired consistency. Continue simmering until the pasta is tender to your liking.
6. Serve with Toppings: Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls. Top each serving with a dollop of ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of mozzarella, a handful of Parmesan, and a touch of fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Tips for Perfect Lasagna Soup

• Control the Thickness: Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more or less water. If you prefer a thicker soup, use less water. For a brothier consistency, add more water or broth.
• Seasoning Adjustments: Taste the soup after it has simmered and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remember, the cheese toppings will also add saltiness.
• Watch the Pasta: Check the pasta regularly as it cooks. Overcooked pasta can become mushy, so remove the soup from heat once the pasta reaches al dente texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Sautéing the beef, onions, and garlic is crucial for building flavor. Don’t skip this step to save time.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Since the pasta will continue to soften as it sits in the hot soup, be careful not to overcook it while simmering.
• Adding All the Water at Once: Add water gradually to control the consistency. It’s easier to add more than to reduce it if the soup becomes too thin.

Variations and Swaps

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based alternative or increase the amount of vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. Be mindful of the cooking time as gluten-free pasta can cook differently.
• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serve the soup in wide, shallow bowls to display the hearty ingredients and vibrant colors. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of green, and offer extra cheese on the side for those who like their soup extra cheesy.

How to Store and Reheat Lasagna Soup

• To Store: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 90 days (or longer if vacuum sealed).
• To Reheat: When reheating, add additional broth or water as needed, since the pasta will have absorbed much of the liquid. Warm on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

Pairing Suggestions

Pair your lasagna soup with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or crusty Italian bread for a complete meal. A glass of iced tea or sparkling water with lemon can also complement the savory flavors perfectly.

Lasagna Soup FAQ

• Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, lasagna soup is great for meal prep! Store it in the fridge or freezer and reheat as needed.
• What type of pasta works best in this soup? Bowtie pasta is ideal, but you can use any pasta shape you like. Rotini, penne, or even broken lasagna noodles work well.
• How do I prevent the pasta from getting too soft? To avoid mushy pasta, cook it until just al dente and be mindful of the reheating time.

Conclusion

This lasagna soup is a must-try for anyone looking for a comforting, easy-to-make meal that captures all the classic flavors of lasagna in a single bowl. Perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or warming up a cold day, this soup is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family! Subscribe to our blog for more delicious and easy-to-make recipes.

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