Lasagna Soup Recipe: 6 Irresistible Steps to Cozy Comfort in a Bowl

What is Lasagna Soup?

Lasagna soup is the perfect blend of comfort food in a bowl. Combining the essence of traditional lasagna with the ease of a one-pot soup, it’s a flavorful, warming meal that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution or something to wow guests with, this easy lasagna soup recipe has all the rich Italian flavors you love, without the fuss. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from tips and tricks to variations and serving suggestions, ensuring that your lasagna soup is a hit every time.

Nutrition Information

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lasagna soup is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:

• Quick and Easy: All the flavors of traditional lasagna without hours of prep or layering.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup, making it perfect for weeknights.
• Customizable: Adjust spices, add vegetables, or swap meats to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this cozy meal.
• Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients, yet satisfying and filling.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

Lasagna soup relies on a few core ingredients to capture the flavors of classic lasagna in a more relaxed format. Here’s a breakdown:

• Italian Sausage: Provides a rich, savory base. You can substitute it with ground beef, turkey, or even a vegetarian sausage alternative.
• Lasagna Noodles: Broken-up lasagna noodles mimic the pasta layers in lasagna. If you’re out, you can use any pasta shape, though lasagna pieces provide an authentic feel.
• Crushed Tomatoes & Tomato Sauce: The foundation of the soup’s tomato flavor. Use fire-roasted tomatoes for extra depth, or swap with marinara sauce if needed.
• Ricotta & Mozzarella Cheese: Essential for creamy texture and flavor. Substitute ricotta with cottage cheese if you prefer a lighter option.
• Italian Seasoning and Basil: These herbs create the signature Italian profile. Fresh basil adds brightness, but dried herbs work well too.

How to Make Lasagna Soup (Step-by-Step)

Making lasagna soup is straightforward, and with these steps, you’ll achieve that hearty lasagna flavor in a fraction of the time.

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Begin by browning the Italian sausage in a large saucepan over medium heat.  This builds a flavorful base. If there’s excess grease, drain it to keep the soup from being too oily.

Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic

Add diced onions and garlic to the pot—sauté until softened and aromatic, infusing the sausage with added flavor.

Step 3: Add Broth and Tomatoes

Combine the chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine, and watch the soup base take on a beautiful, rich red color.

Step 4: Season the Soup

Add Italian seasoning, dried basil, salt, and pepper. The Italian seasoning blends multiple herbs for a balanced flavor, while the basil brings a classic touch.

Step 5: Add Lasagna Noodles

Break lasagna noodles into a part of pieces and add them to the pot. Allow the soup to boil for around 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked. Check the consistency – if it’s too thick, add a bit more broth.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls, topping with a dollop of ricotta and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley to add color and taste.

Expert Tips for Success

Here are some insider tricks to ensure your lasagna soup turns out perfectly:

• Avoid Overcooking the Noodles: Keep a close eye on the noodles, as they can become too soft if left too long.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and high-quality sausage can elevate the soup’s flavor significantly.
• Adjust Consistency: Add broth as needed to control the thickness of the soup, especially as noodles absorb liquid over time.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture, enjoy the soup fresh after cooking, as noodles can continue to soften as they sit.

Variations and Customizations

Lasagna soup can easily be tailored to suit different dietary needs and taste preferences.

• Vegetarian Option: Replace sausage with a mix of mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. Utilize vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or even rice in place of traditional lasagna noodles.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the ricotta and mozzarella with dairy-free cheese options, or skip the cheese entirely for a lighter soup.
• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick.
• Creamy Style: For a creamier texture, stir in a cup of heavy cream or coconut milk toward the end of cooking.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Lasagna soup stores well, making it a great option for meal prep.

• Storage: Leftovers should be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to three days.
• Freezing: Lasagna soup can be frozen for up to 2 months. However, consider freezing the soup without the noodles, as they can become mushy after thawing.
• Reheating: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring periodically. If the soup becomes too thick, add a dash of broth.

Serving Suggestions

Pair lasagna soup with these delicious sides to create a complete meal:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping and sopping up the rich broth.
• Caesar Salad: A fresh, crisp salad balances the soup’s heartiness.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli for added nutrition.
• Mix lasagna recipe with margarita recipe: Combine lasagna recipe with margarita recipe can make for a unique dinner!

FAQ

Can I prepare lasagna soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the sausage and then add all ingredients (except noodles) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding noodles in the last 30 minutes.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely. Any pasta shape works, though broken lasagna noodles provide the closest texture to classic lasagna.

How can I keep the noodles from becoming mushy?

Consider cooking the noodles separately and adding them to each bowl just before serving.

Can I make this soup spicy?

Yes! Use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes to spice things up.

What cheese works best for lasagna soup?

Mozzarella and ricotta are traditional, but Parmesan also adds a nice flavor twist.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, though it’s best to freeze without noodles and add fresh noodles when reheating.