Smash Burgers with Cheese and Crispy Edges – Easy Recipe
Prep time: 50mins | 6 Servings
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the rich, hearty layers of a traditional lasagna. But what if you could enjoy all that cheesy, meaty goodness in one bowl without all the layering and baking? Enter lasagna soup the cozy, flavorful, and easy-to-make twist that’s winning hearts (and appetites) everywhere.
What Is Lasagna Soup?
Lasagna soup takes all the classic elements of lasagna — ground beef, tomatoes, herbs, and gooey melted cheese and transforms them into a delicious, hearty soup. Imagine the flavors of lasagna simmered together in a single pot, with pasta floating in a rich tomato broth and creamy ricotta melting on top.
Ingredients
For the soup base:
1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage for extra flavor)
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups beef or chicken broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp dried basil
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
8–10 lasagna noodles, broken into bite-size pieces
For the cheese topping:
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Directions
1. Brown the Meat
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes, until the onions are soft and fragrant.
3. Build the Base
Stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and broth. Add Italian seasoning, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.
4. Add the Pasta
Once the soup is simmering, add the broken lasagna noodles. Cook uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender.
5. Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a small bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese together. This creamy trio will serve as your topping when serving.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Add a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture on top and let it melt into the soup. Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Lasagna Soup
Use quality broth: A rich broth enhances the depth of flavor.
Don’t overcook the noodles: They’ll continue to soften as the soup sits.
Make it ahead: The flavors deepen overnight. Just cook the noodles separately and combine before serving.
Add veggies: Mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini work beautifully.
Make it vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and skip the meat — still delicious!
Variations You’ll Love
Creamy Lasagna Soup: Add a splash of heavy cream at the end for extra richness.
Spicy Version: Use spicy Italian sausage and extra chili flakes.
Turkey Lasagna Soup: A lighter version using ground turkey.
Veggie-Packed: Add diced carrots, spinach, and bell peppers for more nutrients.
Nutrition Facts
*Per serving (1 bowl)
- Calories400 kcal
- Protein30 g
- Carbohydrates35 g
- Fat15 g
- Saturated Fat7 g
- Cholesterol55 mg
- Sodium620 mg
- Fiber5 g
- Sugar8 g
FAQs About Lasagna Soup
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! Mafalda, rotini, or bowtie pasta work great as substitutes.
2. Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Brown the meat first, then combine all ingredients except the noodles and cheese. Cook on low for 6–7 hours, add noodles in the last 30 minutes.
3. Is lasagna soup gluten-free?
It can be! Simply use gluten-free noodles and check your broth labels.
Final Thoughts
Lasagna soup isn’t just a recipe. It’s a hug in a bowl. It brings together everything you love about Italian food: bold flavors, creamy cheese, and hearty satisfaction. It’s versatile, beginner-friendly, and guaranteed to make your home smell amazing.
So the next time you’re craving lasagna but short on time, remember this easy lasagna soup recipe. It’s the perfect comfort food you can whip up any night of the week.
