Lasagna soup brings the comforting essence of traditional lasagna into a delicious, one-pot meal. You’ll sauté onions and garlic, then brown your choice of ground meat. Next, mix in crushed tomatoes and herbs, creating a rich, flavorful base. Add broken lasagna noodles, simmering until tender. Feel free to get creative—try a cheesy version with cream cheese or spice it up with red pepper flakes. It’s a nutritious dish packed with protein, fiber, and plenty of vegetables. Ready to whip up something cozy like this? There’s so much more you can explore, from variations to topping ideas!
Summary
- Lasagna soup is a hearty dish made with ground meat, crushed tomatoes, and broken lasagna noodles, cooked in one pot.
- It can be customized with ingredients like spinach, cheese, or different meats for added flavor and nutrition.
- The recipe typically takes around 30 minutes to prepare and serves about six people.
- Variations include spicy, cheesy, pesto, and Mexican styles, catering to diverse tastes.
- Nutritionally, it offers a balanced meal with protein and fiber, appealing to comfort food lovers.
Ingredients for Lasagna Soup
Lasagna soup is a cozy and fulfilling twist on the traditional Italian lasagna, combining all the beloved flavors of the classic dish into a warm, hearty soup.
This comforting meal is perfect for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or whenever you’re in need of some culinary comfort.
With layers of rich ground meat, aromatic vegetables, and the unmistakable taste of tomatoes and herbs, each spoonful transports you to the heart of Italy.
Plus, the addition of lasagna noodles makes it a unique and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and serve.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey, or sausage)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 2 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (optional, for serving)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for garnish)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and ground meat, cooking until the meat is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth to the pot. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Season the soup with dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot and cook until al dente, approximately 10-12 minutes.
- Serve hot, dolloped with ricotta cheese if desired, and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and fresh basil leaves.
Top Tips
- For a richer flavor, consider browning the meat with Italian sausage or adding a splash of red wine.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground meat with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty texture.
- To save time, you can use pre-cooked or leftover meat, just add it to the pot after sautéing the vegetables.
- For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving.
- Make it a one-pot meal by adding some chopped spinach or kale for added nutrition.
Variations
- Spicy Lasagna Soup: Add red pepper flakes for a kick, or use spicy Italian sausage.
- Cheesy Lasagna Soup: Mix in cream cheese or a blend of Italian cheeses for a creamier texture.
- Pesto Lasagna Soup: Stir in a few tablespoons of pesto before serving for an herby twist.
- Mexican Lasagna Soup: Incorporate black beans, corn, and taco seasoning for a southwest flair.
- Zucchini Lasagna Soup: Add sliced zucchini or squash for a fresh vegetable boost.
Nutritional Guide
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving (1 cup) |
|---|---|
| Servings | 6 |
| Calories | 350 |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Protein | 20g |
Additional Nutritional Notes: This lasagna soup is not only comforting but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a balanced meal option. The inclusion of vegetables helps boost vitamins and minerals, while the use of lean meats can keep the dish lighter. Enjoy this dish as a fulfilling meal that warms the heart and nourishes the body.
FAQs
Can I Make Lasagna Soup in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely, you can make a delicious lasagna-inspired dish in your slow cooker!
Start by layering your favorite lasagna ingredients like noodles, ricotta, marinara, and mozzarella.
For slow cooker tips, make sure to break the noodles into smaller pieces for even cooking.
Keep the sauce to noodle ratio balanced to avoid dryness.
Let it simmer for a few hours, and you’ll end up with a comforting, innovative meal that’s sure to impress!
How Do I Store Leftover Lasagna Soup?
To store leftover soup, start by letting it cool down.
Then, transfer it to proper containers, ideally airtight ones to maintain freshness.
Label each container with the date to keep track of its age.
For reheating, you can use a microwave or stovetop; just add a splash of water if it thickens.
Enjoy your innovative meal again by ensuring it’s heated evenly for the best flavor experience!
Is Lasagna Soup Gluten-Free?
Imagine a garden where you cultivate your favorite ingredients.
If you’re asking whether lasagna soup can be gluten-free, the answer’s a resounding yes! You can replace traditional lasagna noodles with gluten-free alternatives like zucchini slices or rice noodles.
These substitutions let you savor the same comforting flavors while accommodating dietary needs.
Can I Freeze Lasagna Soup?
Yes, you can freeze it! To preserve that delicious flavor, follow these freezing tips: let your dish cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
For reheating, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then warm it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to guarantee even heating.
Embrace the convenience of having a comforting meal ready whenever you need it, and enjoy the innovative twist it brings to your meal prep!
What Are Some Variations of Lasagna Soup?
Did you know that nearly 50% of people prefer innovative twists on classic recipes?
When exploring variations of soup, consider incorporating vegetable options like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to enhance flavor and nutrition.
For protein choices, you might try ground turkey, Italian sausage, or even plant-based alternatives.
Each twist creates a unique experience, inviting you to play with spices and textures, transforming a simple dish into a culinary adventure that excites your taste buds.
Conclusion
Lasagna soup is not just a comforting meal; it’s a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Did you know that over 90 million Americans enjoy lasagna each year?
With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this soup captures the essence of traditional lasagna while being easy to enjoy in a bowl.
So, whether you’re cozying up on a chilly evening or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy everyone’s cravings. Dig in!
