Name: Hearty Lasagna Soup That Will Warm Your Soul
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 tbsp Olive Oil (Can substitute with avocado oil or butter.); 1 lb Ground Beef (Can swap with ground turkey.); 0.5 cup Minced Onion (Can use shallots for a milder taste.); 2 tbsp Minced Garlic (Add more for a garlicky flavor.); 28 oz Crushed Tomatoes (Avoid using pasta sauce due to salt content.); 1 Bay Leaf (Remove before serving.); 1 tsp Dried Basil (Use double the amount if fresh.); 1 tsp Dried Parsley (Use double the amount if fresh.); 1 tsp Dried Oregano (Use double the amount if fresh.); 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (Adjust to taste.); 0.25 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (Optional.); 4 cups Low Sodium Beef Broth (Chicken or vegetable broth can be substituted.); 2 cups Water (Adjust for thickness.); 2 cups Reginetti Pasta or Broken Lasagna Noodles (Can swap for mafaldine or farfalle.); 0.25 cup Ricotta Cheese (Can be replaced with dairy-free alternatives.); 0.25 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Optional but recommended.)

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a hot, simmering broth to bring back memories of cozy family gatherings. This Quick and Easy Lasagna Soup is my go-to dish when I want to savor the beloved flavors of lasagna without the fuss of layering noodles. In under an hour, you can whip up this one-pot wonder that blends luscious ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato base, making it an easy yet satisfying meal for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a healthy upgrade that’s sure to become a family favorite! So, are you ready to dive into a bowl of warm comfort?

Why is Lasagna Soup a Must-Try?

Hearty, Comforting Dish: This Lasagna Soup delivers all the classic flavors of lasagna in a cozy, one-pot meal. Perfect for those chilly nights, it’s sure to warm your soul.
Quick Preparation: Whip this beauty up in under an hour, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness without the fuss of traditional lasagna.
Versatile Options: Feel free to substitute ground beef with sweet Italian sausage or lentils for a vegetarian twist, making it adaptable to everyone’s taste!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this dish is a guaranteed hit that brings people together. Enjoy it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.

Lasagna Soup Ingredients

For the Soup
• Olive Oil – Adds fat and flavor for sautéing; substitute with avocado oil or butter if desired.
• Ground Beef (1 lb) – Provides protein and richness to the dish; can be swapped with ground turkey for a lighter option.
• Minced Onion (½ cup) – Brings sweetness and aroma; use shallots for a milder taste.
• Minced Garlic (2 tbsp) – Infuses the soup with delicious flavor; don’t hesitate to add more for a garlicky punch.
• Crushed Tomatoes (28 oz) – Forms the base with acidity; substitute with tomato puree if needed, but avoid pasta sauce due to salt content.
• Bay Leaf (1) – Elevates flavor; remember to remove it before serving.
• Dried Basil (1 tsp), Dried Parsley (1 tsp), Dried Oregano (1 tsp) – Staple flavors; fresh herbs can be used for extra vibrancy, at double the amount.
• Black Pepper (½ tsp) – Adds mild heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
• Red Pepper Flakes (¼ tsp) – Optional for a touch of heat; feel free to omit for a milder soup.
• Low Sodium Beef Broth (4 cups) – Forms the liquid base; chicken or vegetable broth can work well too.
• Water (2 cups) – Helps achieve the desired consistency; adjust as needed for thickness.
• Reginetti Pasta or Broken Lasagna Noodles (2 cups) – Brings texture; swap for mafaldine or farfalle if preferred.

For Toppings
• Ricotta Cheese (¼ cup) – Adds creaminess; can be replaced with dairy-free alternatives for a lactose-free option.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (¼ cup) – Enhances flavor and richness; optional, but highly recommended for that authentic lasagna soup taste.

This luscious Lasagna Soup is not only easy to prepare but also makes for a delightful, hearty meal that the whole family will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Quick and Easy Lasagna Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Base
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes until shimmering. Add 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for approximately 10 minutes or until the beef is well browned. If there’s too much fat, feel free to drain it, leaving just enough for flavor.

Step 2: Add Aromatics
Stir in ½ cup of minced onion and 2 tablespoons of minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes. Continue cooking until the onions become translucent and fragrant, releasing a delightful aroma. This mixture will create a flavorful foundation for your Lasagna Soup, preparing it for the delicious, rich broth that’s to follow.

Step 3: Incorporate the Tomatoes
Pour in a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes along with 4 cups of low sodium beef broth and 2 cups of water. Sprinkle in the dried basil, parsley, and oregano, alongside a bay leaf. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, ensuring you mix well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 4: Add the Pasta
Once boiling, introduce 2 cups of Reginetti pasta or broken lasagna noodles into the pot. Reduce the heat to medium, allowing the soup to simmer for half of the pasta’s recommended cooking time. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure every piece is coated in that flavorful broth.

Step 5: Finish Cooking
After the pasta is partially cooked, remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for about 5 minutes. This will allow the pasta to absorb the remaining flavors while finishing its cooking. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf at this stage, as it’s no longer needed but has added depth to your Lasagna Soup.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle your hearty Lasagna Soup into bowls, offering a warm, comforting meal. For an extra touch of creaminess, top each bowl with ¼ cup of ricotta cheese and sprinkle with ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This final step elevates the dish, making it truly reminiscent of classic lasagna!

How to Store and Freeze Lasagna Soup

Fridge: Store leftover Lasagna Soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to preserve freshness.

Freezer: Freeze the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Leave some room at the top for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts until warmed through. Avoid overheating to maintain the soup’s rich flavors and texture.

Pasta Tip: For best results, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it just before serving if you’re planning to store leftovers. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy in the broth.

Make Ahead Options

These delicious Lasagna Soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can sauté the ground beef, onion, and garlic, then mix in the crushed tomatoes, broth, and spices up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the mixture, and when you’re ready to serve, heat it up and add the pasta—cook according to the package instructions, usually about half of their recommended time. To maintain the best texture, store the pasta separately if you know you’ll have leftovers, as it can soak up the broth. This way, you’ll enjoy a hearty, comforting Lasagna Soup that tastes just as delicious, saving you precious time during busy weeknights!

Lasagna Soup Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity and customize this delicious soup to match your taste preferences!

Sausage Delight: Swap ground beef for sweet Italian sausage for a flavorful twist. It adds a wonderful spice that takes the soup to the next level.
Vegetarian Option: Use lentils or a plant-based meat substitute to create a hearty vegetarian version. This is perfect for a meatless meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor!
Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs instead of dried for an aromatic punch. Just double the amount of fresh herbs for a vibrant kick.
Gluten-Free Pasta: Substitute traditional pasta with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a healthier, gluten-free alternative. Enjoy the same comforting taste without the gluten!
Heat It Up: If you love a spicy kick, sprinkle in more red pepper flakes or even diced jalapeños. A little heat can elevate the dish and awaken your taste buds.
Creamy Exchange: Replace ricotta with cream cheese for a rich, indulgent touch. It adds a nice creaminess that complements the soup’s texture beautifully.
Broth Variations: Switch low sodium beef broth with chicken or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor profile. Each broth brings its own unique essence to the dish.
Cheese Choices: Mix up your cheese toppings! Try feta or goat cheese for a tangy alternative, or go dairy-free with cashew cream for those lactose-free nights.

Looking for more comforting soups? Check out our cozy Meatball Soup Cozy or the smooth Cold Cucumber Soup for inspiration!

What to Serve with Best Easy Lasagna Soup

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a hot, simmering broth to bring back memories of cozy family gatherings.

Crusty Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for sopping up every last drop of savory soup. The buttery garlic flavor complements the lasagna essence beautifully.
Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, hearty soup. It’s a light addition that balances the meal perfectly.
Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies adds a delicious, healthy note. Their caramelized sweetness creates an enticing balance to the savory soup.
Cheesy Garlic Knots: A fun, cheesy twist that echoes the lasagna’s flavors, these twisty treats make for a fun, shareable side dish.
Zesty Herb Couscous: Fluffy couscous dressed with lemon and herbs offers a fresh, flavorful twist that complements the soup’s hearty tomato base.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: Pair your meal with this refreshing drink to cleanse the palate between spoonfuls of rich soup. A touch of citrus brightens the overall experience.
Tiramisu for Dessert: End the meal with this luscious Italian dessert. Its creamy coffee flavor provides a delightful finish and pairs well with the flavors of the soup.

With these pairing options, your lasagna soup experience will be satisfying and memorable!

Expert Tips for Lasagna Soup

Pasta Perfection: Undercook your pasta slightly during the initial boil. It will absorb flavors and finish cooking perfectly once removed from the heat.
Storage Solution: For leftovers, consider cooking pasta separately and mixing it in just before enjoying. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy in the broth.
Sauté Secrets: Ensure your beef is well-browned for rich flavor. If it steams instead, your soup may lack depth; use medium-high heat!
Herb Harmony: Fresh herbs bring vibrant flavor. If using dried, remember to adjust quantities since they are more concentrated; typically, use half the amount.
Avoid Instant Pot: While tempting, cooking this Lasagna Soup in an Instant Pot may lead to overcooked pasta. Stick to the stovetop for ideal texture!

Lasagna Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of tomatoes should I use for the soup?
Absolutely! Crushed tomatoes are ideal for this Lasagna Soup because they provide the necessary acidity and richness. If you don’t have crushed tomatoes on hand, you can substitute with tomato puree or canned tomato sauce. However, avoid using jarred pasta sauce as it tends to have higher sodium content, which could overwhelm the dish’s flavors.

How should I store leftovers?
Leftover Lasagna Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing the container to maintain its freshness. For the best texture, I often recommend cooking the pasta separately and adding it just before enjoying the leftovers. This ensures the pasta doesn’t get mushy from soaking in the broth.

Can I freeze Lasagna Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Lasagna Soup for up to 3 months! Transfer the soup into an airtight container but leave some space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

What can I do if my soup is too thick?
If your Lasagna Soup turns out thicker than you’d like, don’t worry! Simply add additional low sodium beef broth or water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Stir well to incorporate the liquid fully, allowing it to warm through. This will help create a more soupy texture without losing flavor.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
For those watching their diet, you can easily make this Lasagna Soup healthier by swapping ground beef for ground turkey or using a plant-based meat alternative. Additionally, if you or your family members have dairy allergies, consider using dairy-free ricotta and Parmesan alternatives. It’s always best to cater to everyone’s preferences to make meal time enjoyable!