There’s something truly heartwarming about a bubbling pot of soup on a chilly evening, and my Simple Lasagna Soup is the ultimate comfort dish that brings those cozy vibes to life. Imagine the rich aromas of savory Italian sausage and hearty ground beef filling your kitchen, mingling harmoniously with the tang of marinara sauce and the freshness of spinach. As I stir in the lasagna noodles, broken into perfect bite-sized pieces, I can almost see the smiles on my family’s faces as we gather around the table.
This recipe is not just for special occasions; it’s a quick weeknight dinner that can be whipped up in about 45 minutes, leaving you with plenty of time to enjoy a soothing bowl of homemade goodness. With just one pot to clean afterwards, you’ll find that its simplicity doesn’t compromise its flavor. So, let’s dive into this delicious homage to classic lasagna, but in a warm, inviting soup that warms both the heart and the belly!
Why is Simple Lasagna Soup a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its finest: This Simple Lasagna Soup requires minimal prep, making it an effortless addition to your weeknight menu.
Comfort in every spoonful: With rich flavors from the savory sausage, ground beef, and melty cheese, this dish exudes comfort.
Versatile and adaptable: Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner for two, this recipe can be easily scaled up or down.
One-pot goodness: Say goodbye to multi-pan chaos! This soup is made in a single pot, ensuring quick cleanup and more time to savor your meal.
Family-approved: Kids and adults alike will adore this hearty twist on lasagna, making it a guaranteed hit at the dinner table.
For a complete experience, consider serving it with garlic bread or a side salad for that perfect finishing touch to your meal.
Simple Lasagna Soup Ingredients
• Prepare for delightful homemade comfort.
For the Soup Base
- Ground Beef – Provides essential protein and a robust flavor; use 80/20 for the best balance of taste and moisture.
- Italian Sausage – Adds depth and authentic Italian seasoning; opt for sweet or hot varieties and remove casings if using links.
- Olive Oil – For sautéing ingredients and adding richness; can be substituted with vegetable oil for a lighter option.
- Yellow Onion – Offers sweetness and aroma; shallots can be a milder substitute.
- Garlic – Imparts savory depth; fresh cloves are best, but powdered garlic is an easy alternative.
- Tomato Paste – Intensifies tomato flavor; can be omitted for a lighter soup but will affect flavor.
- Marinara Sauce – The soul of the soup with its rich, seasoned tomato notes; choose a high-quality brand for best results.
- Chicken Broth – Provides vital liquid and flavor; vegetable broth works for a lighter option.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Offers a customizable touch of heat; adjust to taste or omit for a milder version.
- Fresh Parsley – Enhances freshness; dried parsley can substitute if fresh is unavailable.
For the Pasta and Greens
- Lasagna Noodles – Provide the signature pasta element; break into 1-2 inch pieces to prevent mushiness.
- Spinach – Adds nutrition and a pop of color; kale or Swiss chard can be used as an alternative.
For the Cheesy Topping
- Ricotta Cheese – Contributes creaminess; whole milk ricotta adds richness, while cottage cheese can work in a pinch.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully; use fresh mozzarella for an extra indulgent topping.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds sharp, umami flavor, enhancing the overall dish; grated or shaved Parmesan offers flexibility.
- Fresh Basil – For garnish and added aroma; dried basil can be used but won’t have the same impact.
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a comforting bowl of Simple Lasagna Soup that warms both the belly and soul!
How to Make Simple Lasagna Soup
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Heat the Oil
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. This will create a flavorful base for your soup. -
Brown the Meat
Add ground beef and Italian sausage to the pot, cooking for about 6-8 minutes. Stir occasionally until they’re browned, draining any excess fat afterward. -
Sauté the Aromatics
Toss in diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. -
Incorporate Tomato Paste
Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor. You’ll want to see it slightly caramelize for a rich taste. -
Add Sauces and Broth
Pour in marinara sauce and chicken broth. Sprinkle in red pepper flakes, oregano, and basil, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. -
Return Meat to the Pot
Add the cooked meat back into the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. -
Add Noodles
Break the lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and stir them into the soup. Let it simmer for 8-10 minutes until the noodles are tender but not mushy. -
Mix in Spinach and Parsley
Gently fold in fresh spinach and parsley, cooking just until the spinach is wilted, approximately 1-2 minutes. -
Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. This will be the creamy topping for your soup. -
Serve with a Cheesy Finish
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and generously top with the cheese mixture and fresh basil for an explosion of flavor.
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of olive oil before serving for that extra flavor kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Simple Lasagna Soup Variations
There’s always room for creativity in your kitchen! Let’s explore some exciting ideas to customize this warming dish.
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Lean Protein: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a healthier, leaner version that still delivers on flavor.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles to make this comforting dish accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
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Vegan Twist: Opt for plant-based sausage and vegan cheeses to create a delicious vegan version that everyone will enjoy.
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Veggie Boost: Add diced zucchini or bell peppers for a pop of color and an extra serving of veggies.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different aroma and flavor profile; they complement the Italian herbs nicely.
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Spicy Kick: Stir in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce during cooking for an unexpected heat level that livens up the dish.
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Creamy Variation: Swirl in a splash of heavy cream just before serving for an extra rich and luxurious texture.
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Cheesy Delight: Top with an extra layer of mozzarella or provolone before serving, then pop under the broiler for a bubbly, golden finish.
Feel free to mix and match these variations to craft the perfect bowl of comfort that speaks to your taste buds!
Expert Tips for Simple Lasagna Soup
- Timing is Key: Make sure to add the lasagna noodles only when the soup reaches a boil; this prevents them from getting overly soft and mushy.
- Flavor Balance: After browning the meat, don’t skip draining excess fat—this helps avoid a greasy soup and keeps the flavors on point.
- Perfect Noodle Pieces: Break your lasagna noodles into 1-2 inch pieces to ensure they fit nicely in the soup and are easy to enjoy.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs and quality marinara for the best flavor; they elevate your Simple Lasagna Soup from good to extraordinary.
- Leftovers Love: If you plan to store leftovers, keep the noodles separate to maintain their texture; add them back when reheating.
What to Serve with Simple Lasagna Soup?
A cozy bowl of soup is only the beginning; let’s create a delightful meal that everyone will love!
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Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery flavor of garlic bread is an irresistible companion that’s perfect for dipping into your lasagna soup.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, zesty dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing contrast, balancing the rich flavors of the soup.
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Toasted Baguette Slices: Serve warm, buttered baguette slices for a rustic charm; they’re excellent for sopping up every last drop of soup.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized brings a lovely sweetness that complements the savory soup.
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Parmesan Crisps: Light, crispy cheese snacks add a delightful crunch and a savory bite, enhancing the Italian theme of your meal.
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Red Wine: A glass of light to medium-bodied red wine brings warmth and depth, enhancing the flavors of the lasagna soup.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet finish, homemade cookies offer a comforting dessert, wrapping up your meal with a touch of nostalgia.
A thoughtfully chosen accompaniment takes your Simple Lasagna Soup from a weeknight dinner to a cherished family feast!
How to Store and Freeze Simple Lasagna Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Simple Lasagna Soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days, ensuring all ingredients are well-covered to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze the soup base (without noodles and cheese) in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. This allows for easy reheating while preserving quality.
Noodle Storage: If you’re planning to store the soup, consider keeping the lasagna noodles separate to prevent them from becoming mushy. Reheat them separately and combine just before serving.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to restore consistency as the noodles will absorb liquid during storage.
Make Ahead Options
These Simple Lasagna Soup preparations are ideal for busy weeknights! You can brown the ground beef and Italian sausage up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can prepare the soup base (excluding the noodles and dairy) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. For best quality, add the noodles just before serving to prevent them from becoming mushy. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the soup, stir in the noodles, and simmer until tender; finish by adding the fresh spinach and the cheesy topping, ensuring your meal is just as delicious as the day it was made!
Simple Lasagna Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef should I use?
I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and moisture. This fat content ensures a juicy result without being overly greasy in your Simple Lasagna Soup.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Simple Lasagna Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Be sure to cover it well, as exposure to air can cause the flavors and freshness to diminish.
Can I freeze Simple Lasagna Soup?
Absolutely! You can freeze the soup base (without noodles and cheese) in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove. Add freshly cooked noodles and cheese when serving.
What do I do if my noodles get mushy?
To prevent mushy noodles in the Simple Lasagna Soup, add the broken lasagna noodles only when the soup is at a rolling boil. This helps them cook perfectly without becoming over-soft. If you end up with mushy noodles, consider reducing the cook time in future batches.
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes! To create a gluten-free version of this Simple Lasagna Soup, simply substitute the lasagna noodles with gluten-free pasta. Look for brands that hold their shape well during cooking to mimic the traditional texture.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! If you have dietary restrictions, you can tailor this soup to your needs. Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, use plant-based sausage and skip the meat entirely.
Hearty Simple Lasagna Soup That Warms the Soul
Equipment
- - Large pot
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 lb Ground Beef use 80/20 for the best balance of taste and moisture
- 1 lb Italian Sausage opt for sweet or hot varieties and remove casings if using links
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil can be substituted with vegetable oil
- 1 medium Yellow Onion shallots can be a milder substitute
- 3 cloves Garlic fresh cloves are best
- 2 tbsp Tomato Paste will affect flavor if omitted
- 28 oz Marinara Sauce choose a high-quality brand
- 4 cups Chicken Broth vegetable broth works for a lighter option
- 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes adjust to taste or omit
- 1 cup Fresh Parsley dried parsley can substitute if fresh is unavailable
For the Pasta and Greens
- 12 oz Lasagna Noodles break into 1-2 inch pieces
- 3 cups Spinach kale or Swiss chard can be used as alternatives
For the Cheesy Topping
- 15 oz Ricotta Cheese whole milk ricotta adds richness
- 8 oz Mozzarella Cheese use fresh mozzarella for indulgence
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese grated or shaved offers flexibility
- 1/4 cup Fresh Basil dried basil can be used
Instructions
How to Make Simple Lasagna Soup
- Heat the Olive Oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef and Italian sausage to the pot, cooking for about 6-8 minutes until browned.
- Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in marinara sauce and chicken broth, sprinkle in red pepper flakes, and scrape up any browned bits.
- Add meat back to the pot and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Break lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and stir into the soup. Simmer for 8-10 minutes.
- Fold in fresh spinach and parsley, cooking just until wilted.
- Combine ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan in a bowl for the topping.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the cheese mixture and fresh basil.