Lasagna Soup

This Lasagna Soup recipe combines all the classic flavors of lasagna into a hearty, comforting bowl. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this dish brings together tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and cheesy goodness without the hassle of layering traditional lasagna. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or as part of a meal prep for the week, this soup is sure to delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just one pot required, cleanup is a breeze!
• Flavorful Comfort: Enjoy all the delicious flavors of traditional lasagna in a warm soup form.
• Family-Friendly: A great way to please both kids and adults alike with its savory taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or pasta types for variety.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy throughout the week for quick meals.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful Lasagna Soup, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Having them at hand will streamline your cooking process and ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Pot
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula
• Knife and Cutting Board
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Pot: This is crucial for cooking the soup evenly while providing enough space for all ingredients.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for stirring and preventing any sticking to the bottom of your pot.
• Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for prepping your vegetables efficiently.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make this tasty Lasagna Soup:

For the Base

• 1-2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or preferred oil)
• 1 pound Ground Beef
• 1 large Onion (diced)
• 4 cloves Garlic (minced)

For the Sauce

• 1 (15-ounce can) Diced Tomatoes (don’t drain)
• 1 (15-ounce can) Tomato Sauce (or tomato puree)
• 1/3 cup Tomato Paste (about half of a 6-ounce can)
• 4 cups Chicken Broth
• 1-2 cups Water (to adjust consistency)
• 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
• 1 teaspoon Sea Salt (or more as needed to adjust flavor)
• Black Pepper (to taste)

For the Pasta and Cheese

• 8 ounces Bowtie Pasta (uncooked)
• 1/2 cup Ricotta Cheese
• 2 ounces Mozzarella Cheese (shredded, about 1/2 cup)
• 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (shaved, shredded, or fresh grated)
• 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped)

How to Make Lasagna Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Base

In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. When hot, add ground beef. Cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary. Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until softened.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chicken broth, water, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add uncooked bowtie pasta. Reduce heat to simmer and cook according to pasta package instructions until al dente.

Step 4: Add Cheeses and Finish Up

Once pasta is cooked, stir in ricotta cheese until melted through. Top with mozzarella and parmesan cheese before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for added flavor.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Lasagna Soup!

How to Serve Lasagna Soup

Lasagna soup is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of traditional lasagna into a comforting bowl of goodness. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping. The bread soaks up the flavorful broth and adds a wonderful texture.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil on top before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens the dish.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• Pair with a simple green salad tossed in vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad complements the rich, hearty soup.

In Individual Bowls

• For a fun presentation, serve the soup in individual bowls topped with cheese. This makes it perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

With Extra Cheese

• Offer additional shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese on the side. Guests can add as much cheese as they like for extra creaminess.

How to Perfect Lasagna Soup

To ensure your lasagna soup is irresistibly delicious, consider these helpful tips.

• Use quality ingredients: The better your ingredients, the more flavor your soup will have. Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality canned tomatoes.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust seasonings accordingly. A little extra salt or Italian seasoning can enhance the overall flavor.
• Cook pasta separately: For optimal texture, cook pasta al dente separately and add it just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Let it simmer: Allowing your soup to simmer for longer will deepen the flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes if you have time.
• Experiment with cheeses: Mix different cheeses like ricotta and mozzarella for a richer taste. You can also try adding goat cheese for a tangy flavor boost.

Best Side Dishes for Lasagna Soup

Pairing lasagna soup with complementary sides can elevate your meal even further. Here are some tasty options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of soup.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and bold flavors that balance the richness of the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a healthy contrast and add color to your plate.
4. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a refreshing appetizer.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with herbs and breadcrumbs are an excellent finger food option.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated veggies offers variety and complements the Italian theme beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making lasagna soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect your dish. Here are mistakes to watch out for:

• Using the wrong pasta shape: Bowtie pasta works best in this recipe. Avoid using large or very small pasta shapes that may not hold up well in the soup.
• Forgetting to adjust the broth: If your soup is too thick, remember to add water or more chicken broth until you achieve your desired consistency.
• Not seasoning adequately: Taste as you cook! Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Adjust salt and pepper to enhance the overall taste.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds a vibrant flavor to your lasagna soup. Don’t skip it; it elevates the dish significantly.
• Overcooking the pasta: Bowtie pasta should be cooked just until al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and lose its texture in the soup.
• Ignoring storage tips: Properly store leftovers to maintain freshness. Use airtight containers and refrigerate within two hours of cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store lasagna soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow it to cool before sealing and refrigerating to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Lasagna Soup

• Freeze lasagna soup in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Lasagna Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about lasagna soup that might help you in your cooking journey.

What is Lasagna Soup?

Lasagna soup is a comforting dish that combines all the flavors of traditional lasagna into a hearty soup form, making it easier and quicker to prepare.

How do you make Lasagna Soup?

To make lasagna soup, brown ground beef with onions and garlic, add tomatoes and seasonings, then stir in uncooked pasta. Simmer until cooked through and serve with cheese!

Can I customize my Lasagna Soup?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition or swap out cheeses according to your preference.

How long does Lasagna Soup last?

Lasagna soup lasts about 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

This lasagna soup recipe offers all the delicious flavors of classic lasagna without the hassle. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and can easily be customized with different ingredients. Try it today!