Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite go-to comfort food: easy lasagna soup! It’s like getting all the incredible flavors of traditional lasagna in a cozy bowl, but without the fuss of layering noodles and sauces. Seriously, who has time for that on a busy weeknight? This soup is so simple to whip up, yet it feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. I remember the first time I made it; I was just craving something hearty and filling after a long day. One slurp in, and I was hooked! The savory aroma of ground beef, garlic, and Italian herbs wafting through my kitchen was simply irresistible. And the best part? You can customize it however you like! Trust me, once you try this easy lasagna soup, it’ll become a staple in your home too. It’s comforting, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious—perfect for any occasion!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’re going to love this easy lasagna soup for so many reasons! First off, it’s a breeze to prepare—just about 15 minutes of hands-on time, and then it practically cooks itself while you kick back and relax. The comforting flavors of rich ground beef, tangy tomatoes, and creamy ricotta blend together beautifully, creating a cozy bowl that warms your soul. Plus, it’s a healthier twist on traditional lasagna, packed with protein and veggies, and it’s gluten-free too! I often find myself making this on busy nights when I need something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. And let’s not forget how customizable it is—feel free to toss in your favorite veggies or switch up the protein! Trust me, once you taste this delightful soup, it’ll be your new go-to for any night of the week.
Ingredients List
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (your choice, but I love using small shells or elbow macaroni)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
How to Prepare Easy Lasagna Soup
Now let’s dive into making this delightful easy lasagna soup! I promise, it’s as straightforward as it gets, and you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time.
Step 1: Brown the Meat
First things first, in a large pot over medium heat, add your ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook this delicious trio for about 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is nicely browned and the onions are soft and translucent. Don’t forget to break up the meat as it cooks—this helps everything blend together beautifully!
Step 2: Add Ingredients
Once your meat is browned, it’s time to add in the fun stuff! Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth, then toss in the uncooked pasta and Italian seasoning. Give it all a good stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil—this should take about 5 minutes—then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. You’ll want that pasta to soak up all those rich flavors!
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Keep an eye on your soup as it simmers! Check the pasta after about 10 minutes by fishing out a piece and tasting it—perfectly cooked pasta should be tender but still have a slight bite to it. If it needs a little more time, don’t hesitate to let it simmer for a few extra minutes.
Step 4: Stir in Cheese
Once the pasta is just right, it’s time to add the star of the show: the ricotta cheese! Stir it in until it’s well incorporated and creamy. This will give your soup that luscious, comforting texture we all crave. Feel free to adjust the amount based on how cheesy you want it!
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Now for the best part: serving! Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top each serving with a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. If you’re feeling fancy, a few fresh basil leaves make a lovely garnish and add a pop of color. Enjoy every comforting spoonful of your easy lasagna soup!
Tips for Success
To make sure your easy lasagna soup turns out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips! First, don’t rush the browning of the meat; it adds tons of flavor, so take those 5-7 minutes to let it get nice and golden. When it comes to the pasta, remember that different shapes cook at different rates! If you’re using a larger pasta, just keep an eye on it and adjust the simmering time as needed. Also, if you want a thicker soup, feel free to reduce the broth a bit or add more pasta. Finally, always taste as you go—seasoning can make or break your dish, so don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! A dash of fresh herbs right before serving can elevate the flavors even more. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Variations
One of the best things about easy lasagna soup is how versatile it is! If you’re looking to switch things up, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. You can even go meatless by adding in some hearty vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers—just sauté them with the onions and garlic for extra flavor. As for the pasta, feel free to experiment with different shapes; bowtie or even whole wheat pasta can add a fun twist! For a spicy kick, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or Italian sausage. And if you want to make it extra creamy, mix in a splash of heavy cream after adding the ricotta. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and tailor this soup to your tastes!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying a delicious bowl of easy lasagna soup, you might be curious about what’s packed into each serving. Here’s a handy breakdown of the nutritional values to help you out! Keep in mind that these are estimates based on the ingredients used, so your results may vary a bit.
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 25g
This hearty soup not only warms your soul but also delivers a good amount of protein and essential nutrients, making it a satisfying meal option. So, dig in and enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness without any guilt!
FAQ Section
If you’re curious about easy lasagna soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common questions I get from friends and family who want to whip up this delightful dish.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This easy lasagna soup is perfect for meal prep. Just cook it as directed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!
What can I use instead of ground beef?
No problem! You can substitute ground turkey or even go vegetarian with lentils or mushrooms. They’ll still provide that hearty feel and delicious flavor you love in this soup.
Can I freeze easy lasagna soup?
Yes, you can! Just let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, defrost it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free pasta, this easy lasagna soup can be a gluten-free delight! Just check your pasta packaging to ensure it fits your dietary needs.
How can I make it spicier?
If you like a little heat, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when you’re adding the other ingredients. It’ll give your soup a nice kick without overpowering the comforting flavors.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your easy lasagna soup is super simple! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. If you want to save it for later, you can freeze it too! Pour the cooled soup into a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space at the top for expansion, and it’ll be good for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. You can also pop it in the microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in short intervals and stirring in between. Just make sure it’s hot all the way through before serving. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!
Print
Easy Lasagna Soup: 15 Minutes to Comforting Goodness
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and comforting lasagna-inspired soup.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth
- 2 cups uncooked pasta
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef with onion and garlic.
- Add crushed tomatoes, broth, pasta, and Italian seasoning.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until pasta is cooked.
- Stir in ricotta cheese until well mixed.
- Serve hot, topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Adjust the thickness by adding more or less broth.
- Can substitute ground turkey for beef.
- Top with fresh basil for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: easy lasagna soup, lasagna soup recipe, quick soup recipe
