Best Lasagna Soup Recipe

This cheesy and hearty soup captures all the comforting flavors of classic lasagna in a quicker, one-pot dish. Perfect for a cozy dinner that’s ready in under an hour and loved by the whole family.

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What Makes This Lasagna Soup Special?

This Best Lasagna Soup Recipe combines the rich, comforting flavors of traditional lasagna into an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish. Its robust tomato base, tender pasta, and savory beef are enhanced by herbs and spices, creating a soup that feels indulgent yet practical. Topped with creamy ricotta or parmesan, it’s a meal that satisfies cravings in every bite.

Why You’ll Love It

• Quick to prepare: Ready in under 1 hour.
• One-pot convenience: Easy cleanup for busy nights.
• Customizable: Adjust spice levels, toppings, and pasta types.
• Family-friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike.

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Preparation Phase

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven: Ensures even heat distribution.
• Wooden spoon: Gentle on cookware and ideal for stirring.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precision.
• Sharp knife and cutting board: For chopping onions and mincing garlic.

Preparation Tips

1. Prep Before Starting: Chop garlic and onion, and measure out spices to make cooking seamless.
2. Choose Quality Ingredients: Use lean ground beef and low-sodium broth for a balanced flavor.
3. Undercook the Pasta: Let the pasta finish cooking in the hot soup for the perfect texture.
4. Customize Consistency: Add more or less broth depending on your preferred soup thickness.

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
• 1/2 cup minced onion
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 6 cloves)
• 28 oz crushed tomatoes (low or no sodium)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
• 4 cups beef broth (low or no sodium)
• 2 cups water
• 2 cups reginetti pasta or broken lasagna noodles (about 5 oz)

Optional Toppings

• 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese

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Step-By-Step Directions

1. Cook the Ground Beef

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat for 3 minutes.
• Add the ground beef and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked.

2. Sauté Onion and Garlic

• Stir in minced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

3. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

• Stir in crushed tomatoes, bay leaf, basil, parsley, oregano, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix thoroughly to combine flavors.

4. Add Broth and Water

• Pour in beef broth and water. Stir to combine, cover the pot, and bring the soup to a boil over high heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Cook the Pasta

• Once boiling, add the uncooked pasta. Stir well and reduce the heat to medium. Cook uncovered for half the recommended cook time listed on the pasta package (e.g., 5 minutes for a 10-minute cook time).

6. Finish the Soup

• Remove the pot from heat once the pasta is half-cooked. Let the soup sit uncovered for 5 minutes, allowing the pasta to finish cooking. Discard the bay leaf.

7. Serve

• Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with a dollop of ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a creamy, cheesy finish.

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Notes and Variations

• Pasta Cooking Tip: Slightly undercook pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Adjust Consistency: Add more broth if the soup thickens too much as it sits.
• Spice Customization: Skip or increase red pepper flakes based on your spice tolerance.
• Alternative Pasta Options: Use penne, rotini, or even shell pasta as substitutes for broken lasagna noodles.
• Cheese Substitutions: Swap ricotta with shredded mozzarella for a gooier texture.

Enjoy this warm, hearty soup that delivers all the comfort of lasagna in a fraction of the time!

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Serving Suggestions

This Lasagna Soup shines as a hearty main dish but can be elevated further with thoughtful presentation and pairings:

• Serve in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the hearty texture of the soup.
• Garnish each bowl with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of chili flakes for added flavor and color.
• Pair with warm bread or light side dishes for a well-rounded meal.

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Side Dish Recommendations

Complement your lasagna soup with these 8 delicious side dishes:

1. Garlic Knots

• Fluffy, buttery, and garlicky bread knots are the perfect partner for soaking up the rich broth.

1. Caesar Salad

• Crisp romaine lettuce, tangy Caesar dressing, and crunchy croutons bring balance to the hearty soup.

1. Roasted Asparagus

• Lightly roasted asparagus with olive oil and parmesan adds a fresh and savory touch.

1. Caprese Salad

• Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic drizzle create a bright, tangy complement.

1. Cheesy Breadsticks

• Warm, cheesy breadsticks are perfect for dipping into the flavorful tomato broth.

1. Balsamic-Glazed Brussels Sprouts

• Roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a slightly sweet and savory side.

1. Antipasto Platter

• A medley of cured meats, cheeses, marinated vegetables, and olives pairs beautifully with the Italian-inspired soup.

1. Marinated Olives

• A bowl of herby, marinated olives adds a simple but flavorful bite on the side.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Pasta

• Pasta absorbs liquid as it sits, so slightly undercook it in the soup. Let it finish cooking during the resting period.

2. Adding All the Pasta at Once for Leftovers

• If planning for leftovers, cook the pasta separately and add it when reheating to avoid mushiness.

3. Neglecting the Bay Leaf

• Don’t skip this small but powerful ingredient. It adds depth to the soup’s flavor.

4. Using High-Sodium Ingredients

• Opt for low-sodium broth and tomatoes to control the saltiness and avoid overwhelming the dish.

5. Forgetting to Stir the Pasta While Cooking

• Prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot by stirring occasionally.

6. Not Adjusting Consistency

• If the soup thickens as it sits, don’t hesitate to add more broth or water to restore its soup-like texture.

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How to Perfect the Recipe

• Boost the Flavor: Add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to the broth for a richer depth of flavor.
• Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone for a creamier texture.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Experiment with Herbs: Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in addition to dried ones for a fresher taste.

By avoiding common mistakes and following these tips, you can perfect your lasagna soup and create a dish that’s nothing short of spectacular.

Recipe Tips

1. Adjusting Spice Levels:

• Increase or omit the red pepper flakes depending on your spice preference. A pinch of cayenne can be added for a different heat profile.

1. For a Vegetarian Version:

• Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

1. For a Gluten-Free Option:

• Use gluten-free pasta and double-check the labels on your broth and crushed tomatoes.

1. Enhance the Flavor:

• A splash of red wine during the sauté phase adds richness to the soup base.

1. Thicken the Soup:

• If you prefer a thicker soup, blend 1/2 cup of the soup base (without pasta) and stir it back in.

1. Use Fresh Herbs for Garnish:

• Fresh basil or parsley adds a pop of color and brightness to the final dish.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigeration:
• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing:
• Freeze the soup without the pasta for up to 3 months. Cook fresh pasta and add it when reheating to maintain texture.

Reheating Tips

1. Stovetop:

• Heat the soup on medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much.

1. Microwave:

• Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 1–2 minutes until warmed through.

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FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While broken lasagna noodles or reginetti are traditional, you can substitute with short pasta like penne, fusilli, or bow-tie pasta.

2. What’s the best way to make this soup creamy?

Stir in a splash of heavy cream, mascarpone, or a dollop of ricotta right before serving for a creamier texture.

3. How can I prevent the pasta from overcooking?

Cook the pasta separately and add it to each bowl when serving, especially if you plan to store leftovers.

4. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! Make the soup base (without the pasta) up to 2 days ahead. Reheat and add freshly cooked pasta before serving.

5. Can I add vegetables to this soup?

Yes! Spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or even diced carrots are great additions. Add them when the soup is simmering.

6. What can I use instead of ricotta?

Replace ricotta with shredded mozzarella or cream cheese for a creamy, cheesy topping.

7. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the onion/garlic on the stovetop, then transfer to a slow cooker with the remaining ingredients (except pasta). Cook on low for 6–8 hours, adding the pasta during the last 20 minutes.

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Conclusion

This Best Lasagna Soup Recipe transforms the iconic Italian dish into a hearty, comforting soup that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving it fresh, storing it for later, or tweaking it with your favorite toppings and vegetables, this one-pot wonder is sure to become a family favorite. Pair it with a crusty loaf of bread or a light salad, and you have a cozy meal that’s perfect for any season.

Enjoy every spoonful of this delicious dish, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family for a memorable mealtime experience!

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