After a long day, there’s nothing quite like the cozy embrace of a warm bowl of soup. When I stumbled upon the idea of Lasagna Soup, I couldn’t believe my luck—it captures all the flavors of my favorite lasagna without the fuss of layering noodles and simmering sauce for hours. Imagine the rich, meaty goodness mingling with vibrant tomatoes, a melody of herbs, and the creamy decadence of ricotta and mozzarella melting into each spoonful.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy gathering with friends, this Lasagna Soup will satisfy your lasagna craving in half the time and leave you wanting more. In just under an hour, you can whip up a fragrant, hearty dish that’s both comforting and utterly satisfying. So grab your favorite pot, and let’s bring some Italian warmth into your kitchen!
This Lasagna Soup Will Satisfy Your Craving?
Simple preparation: This recipe transforms traditional lasagna into a comforting soup, making it perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
Savory aroma: The delightful blend of sausage, garlic, and herbs fills your kitchen, promising a delicious meal.
Family-friendly: With its rich, hearty ingredients, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters in the family.
Comfort in a bowl: Imagine indulging in layers of flavor with each spoonful, thanks to creamy ricotta and gooey mozzarella.
Elevate your dinner game with this easy recipe that satisfies cravings faster than any takeout could!
Lasagna Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Extra-virgin olive oil – adds richness and flavor; perfect for sautéing.
- Italian sausage – delivers robust flavor; choose bulk for easy browning.
- Yellow onion – mellows the taste; enhances overall sweetness.
- Garlic – infuses aromatic depth; don’t skip for a flavor boost.
- Tomato paste – thickens the soup; brings concentrated tomato goodness.
- Dried basil – adds a classic Italian essence; feel free to use fresh if you have it!
- Dried oregano – complements the basil; together, they create a herb symphony.
- Crushed red pepper flakes – introduces a hint of heat; adjust to your spice preference.
- Low-sodium chicken broth – serves as a savory base; keeps the soup light in saltiness.
- Crushed tomatoes – adds body and richness; essential for that tomato flavor.
For the Noodles and Cheeses
- Lasagna noodles – broken into pieces, they absorb flavors and add heartiness.
- Whole milk ricotta cheese – provides creaminess; mix it with the Parmesan for a delightful topping.
- Grated Parmesan cheese – adds a salty kick and depth to the ricotta.
- Shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese – completes the soup with gooey, melty goodness; essential for that lasagna feel!
For Finishing Touches
- Freshly ground black pepper – enhances flavors; season according to your taste.
- Fresh basil leaves – torn just before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Kosher salt – to taste, ensuring balanced seasoning for every bowl.
This Lasagna Soup will satisfy your craving with its delightful blend of ingredients, all coming together for an unforgettable meal experience!
How to Make Lasagna Soup
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Boil the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the broken lasagna noodles according to the package directions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain, rinse with cold water to stop the cooking, and set aside.
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Cook the sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until mostly browned, about 5 to 7 minutes.
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Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the sausage mixture. Stir occasionally, cooking for another 5 to 7 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent.
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Add the tomato base: Stir in the tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for about 2 minutes until the tomato paste darkens slightly, enhancing its flavor.
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Simmer the soup: Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes, adding 1 cup of water. Bring the soup to a boil, uncovered, skimming off any foam that rises to the surface. Then reduce the heat and let it simmer, uncovered, for 15 minutes.
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Prepare the cheese mixture: While the soup simmers, combine the ricotta and grated Parmesan cheese in a medium bowl. Season with a pinch of kosher salt and a dash of black pepper, mixing well.
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Serve and enjoy: In each individual serving bowl, add about 1 cup of the cooked lasagna noodles. Taste the soup, adjust seasoning with salt and/or pepper if needed, and ladle the soup over the pasta. Top each bowl with a generous amount of mozzarella cheese, a dollop of the ricotta mixture, and torn basil leaves.
Optional: Garnish with additional grated Parmesan for an extra cheesy finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Lasagna Soup preparations are fantastic for meal prep, making dinner on busy nights a breeze! You can prepare the soup base (without the noodles and cheeses) up to 3 days ahead and refrigerate it in an airtight container. To maintain quality, ensure it cools completely before sealing. You can also pre-cook the lasagna noodles up to 24 hours beforehand, rinsing them under cold water to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy your Lasagna Soup, simply reheat the soup in a pot, add the noodles, and then top with mozzarella, the ricotta mixture, and fresh basil just before serving. Enjoy the time-saving benefits of this comforting, homemade meal!
Lasagna Soup Variations
Feel free to customize this delightful dish and make it uniquely yours!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles to tailor the soup for gluten sensitivities. It’s still comforting and holds the flavors beautifully!
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Vegetarian: Substitute the sausage with plant-based crumbles or hearty mushrooms to maintain that satisfying texture without the meat. Explore different veggies too—think spinach or bell peppers!
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Creamy Twist: For an extra creamy finish, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving. This elevates the richness to a whole new level.
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Extra Spice: If you crave heat, add more crushed red pepper or toss in a diced jalapeño when cooking the onion and garlic. Spice lovers will be delighted with this kick!
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Herb Upgrade: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can intensify the flavor profile. Add them during simmering for that garden-fresh taste!
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Cheesy Elegance: For a cheesy explosion, mix in additional mozzarella with the ricotta blend, or sprinkle more on top before serving to create a luscious, gooey layer.
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Brothy Delight: For a lighter version, increase the chicken broth and decrease the number of noodles, making it a more soup-like experience that’s still satisfying.
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Lentil Boost: Incorporate cooked green or brown lentils for added protein and fiber. They blend seamlessly into the flavor palette and add a hearty element.
Get inspired and enjoy the journey of making this soup your own!
Tips for the Best Lasagna Soup
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Perfect Noodle Cooking: Make sure to cook the lasagna noodles just until al dente; they’ll continue to soften in the soup. Avoid overcooking them during this step.
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Rich Flavor Base: Don’t rush the browning of the sausage, onion, and garlic; this step builds a rich foundation of flavor that enhances your Lasagna Soup.
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Seasoning Wisely: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes based on your family’s preferences to create the perfect balance.
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Creamy Cheese Mix: Be gentle when blending the ricotta and Parmesan; over-mixing can change the texture. Enjoy the creamy richness in every bowl.
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Fresh Basil Finish: Add torn basil just before serving to unlock its bright flavor. This simple step elevates your dish and makes your Lasagna Soup shine!
Storage Tips for Lasagna Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Lasagna Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Consider portioning it into single servings for easy reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore creaminess.
Noodle Note: If possible, store the noodles separately to avoid them becoming too soft—this Lasagna Soup is best enjoyed fresh!
What to Serve with Lasagna Soup?
Cozy up your dinner table with delightful sides that beautifully complement the rich flavors of this comforting dish.
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Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery accompaniment perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of the savory soup.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with creamy dressing and crunchy croutons adds freshness and balances the hearty soup.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables brings earthy flavors and a lovely textural contrast to your meal.
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Parmesan Polenta: Creamy polenta with a sprinkle of Parmesan creates a luxurious side that pairs wonderfully with the soup’s richness.
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Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes and basil provides a refreshing bite that complements the soup’s warmth.
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White Wine: A chilled, crisp Sauvignon Blanc enhances the meal, washing down the robust flavors with each sip.
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Tiramisu: End the meal on a sweet note with this coffee-flavored dessert, offering a delightful contrast to the savory soup.
Each of these pairings adds a unique touch, making your Lasagna Soup experience even more satisfying!
Lasagna Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of Italian sausage should I use?
Absolutely! You can use either loose bulk Italian sausage or sausage links with the casings removed. If you prefer a leaner option, turkey or chicken sausage works well too while still delivering great flavor.
How should I store leftover Lasagna Soup?
For sure! Store any leftover Lasagna Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.
Can I freeze Lasagna Soup?
Yes, you can! To freeze, ladle the cooled soup into airtight containers or freezer bags and ensure you leave some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
What do I do if my Lasagna Soup is too thick?
Very common! If your soup turns out thicker than you’d like, simply stir in a little extra chicken broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. Reheat it gently on the stove to warm through without compromising the flavor.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! To create a vegetarian version, omit the Italian sausage and replace it with cooked lentils or mushrooms for a hearty texture. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and add veggies like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition.
How do I reheat frozen Lasagna Soup?
Certainly! Start by thawing your frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight. When ready to eat, transfer it to a pot and gently heat over medium-low. If you notice it’s too thick, add a splash of broth to reach your preferred consistency. Stir occasionally until heated through!
This Lasagna Soup will satisfy your craving fast, so don’t hesitate to try these tips for the best experience!
This Lasagna Soup Will Satisfy Your Craving Fast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the broken lasagna noodles according to the package directions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain, rinse with cold water to stop the cooking, and set aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until mostly browned, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the sausage mixture. Stir occasionally, cooking for another 5 to 7 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent.
- Stir in the tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for about 2 minutes until the tomato paste darkens slightly, enhancing its flavor.
- Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes, adding 1 cup of water. Bring the soup to a boil, uncovered, skimming off any foam that rises to the surface. Then reduce the heat and let it simmer, uncovered, for 15 minutes.
- While the soup simmers, combine the ricotta and grated Parmesan cheese in a medium bowl. Season with a pinch of kosher salt and a dash of black pepper, mixing well.
- In each individual serving bowl, add about 1 cup of the cooked lasagna noodles. Taste the soup, adjust seasoning with salt and/or pepper if needed, and ladle the soup over the pasta. Top each bowl with a generous amount of mozzarella cheese, a dollop of the ricotta mixture, and torn basil leaves.