After a long day, there’s nothing quite like sinking into a warm bowl of comforting soup that feels like a hug. This Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta brings together all the beloved flavors of traditional lasagna into one hearty dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. With fragrant garlic, rich tomatoes, and a creamy finish, this recipe gives you that classic Italian taste without the fuss of layering pasta sheets.
I discovered this fusion dish during a hectic week when all I craved was something soul-soothing yet quick to prepare. It’s become my go-to for weeknight dinners and impromptu gatherings, because who doesn’t love a customizable meal? Whether you throw in spicy Italian sausage or add a medley of veggies, this soup allows for creativity while delivering comfort in every spoonful. Get ready to warm your kitchen with irresistible aromas and gather your loved ones around the table for a delightful experience!
Why is Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta a Must-Try?
Comforting and Hearty: This soup offers the warm, cozy vibes of traditional lasagna in a bowl, perfect for those chilly evenings.
Time-Saving Delight: Ready in under an hour, it’s an ideal solution for busy weeknights.
Customizable Flavor: You can easily adjust ingredients, adding your favorite proteins or veggies to suit any preference.
Heavenly Creaminess: The addition of ricotta creates a luscious, creamy finish that complements the rich tomato base beautifully.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether serving family or friends, everyone will love this delicious twist on a classic!
Ingredients for Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta
For the Soup Base
- Ground Beef – Provides protein and a meaty base; substitute with Italian sausage for extra flavor.
- Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; diced into 1/2-inch pieces for even cooking.
- Garlic – Infuses the soup with aromatic flavor; can use minced garlic from a jar if fresh is unavailable.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a hint of heat; adjust to taste for spiciness.
- Italian Sauce (24 oz) – Base flavor; Rao’s Homemade Marinara is recommended for its quality.
- Chicken Broth (10 cups) – Provides the soup’s liquid base; vegetable broth can be used for a lighter version.
- Crushed Tomatoes (14 oz) – Adds richness and texture; Muir Glen is great for a sweeter taste.
- Tomato Paste (2 tbsp) – Intensifies tomato flavor; optional for thicker soup.
- Balsamic Vinegar (2 tsp) – Adds a nice tang; can substitute with red wine vinegar.
- Sugar (2 tsp) – Balances acidity; honey can be used as a natural sweetener.
- Dried Basil, Parsley, Oregano (various) – Contributes to the Italian flavor profile; fresh herbs replace dried at a 1:3 ratio.
- Fennel Seeds (1/2 tsp) – Adds a unique flavor; optional but recommended.
- Salt & Pepper – For seasoning; adjust to taste.
- Bay Leaf – Adds an aromatic element; remember to remove before serving.
For the Pasta and Creamy Finish
- Lasagna Noodles (10, broken into pieces) – Provide the pasta element; can replace with gluten-free noodles.
- Cream (1/2 cup) – Adds richness; omit for a lighter soup if desired.
- Fresh Basil (1/4 cup, chopped) – For garnish; parsley can be used instead.
- Mozzarella & Parmesan (for garnish) – Adds cheesy goodness; any cheese works well for topping.
This Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta is not just a meal, it’s a balm for the soul, infusing your home with idyllic scents that make everyone feel welcome. Enjoy crafting this cozy dish!
How to Make Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta
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Brown Beef: In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s mostly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, around 3-4 minutes.
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Sauté Aromatics: Drain any excess fat from the pot, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Combine Ingredients: Stir in the Italian sauce, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, sugar, dried herbs, and seasonings. Then pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
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Add Noodles: Break the lasagna noodles into manageable pieces, then stir them into the boiling soup. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes until the noodles are tender.
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Finish Up: Remove the bay leaf, stir in the cream, and adjust the soup’s thickness with the remaining chicken broth as needed. Taste, and season with more salt or pepper if desired.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and generously top with ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan. Garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.
Optional: Serve with crusty garlic bread for a delightful meal pairing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta?
Nothing complements a hearty bowl of soup better than delightful side dishes that enhance the experience and bring your meal to life.
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Garlic Bread: The warmth of buttery, garlicky goodness is the perfect accompaniment, ideal for dipping in the rich tomato broth.
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Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the creamy richness of the soup beautifully. The crunch and tangy dressing will awaken every bite.
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Parmesan Crisps: These crunchy, cheesy bites add an irresistible texture contrast and deepen the Italian flavor profile of the meal.
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Antipasto Platter: Serve an assortment of olives, cured meats, and cheeses to kick off dinner with vibrant flavors, stimulating the appetite before the main dish.
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Bruschetta: Topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, this vibrant appetizer serves to lighten the meal and echo the rich flavors of the soup.
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Red Wine: A glass of bold red wine, such as Chianti, not only elevates the meal but also perfectly complements the savory notes in the soup.
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Lemon Sorbet: For a refreshing finish, lemon sorbet provides a light, zesty contrast to the hearty lasagna soup, cleansing the palate beautifully after your meal.
Each pairing harmonizes with Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta, turning a simple dinner into a memorable feast for family or friends. Enjoy crafting your perfect meal!
Expert Tips for Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta
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Start Simple: Begin with 6 cups of broth to avoid a watery soup; adjust as desired for consistent richness while making your Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta.
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Perfect Noodle Breaks: Breaking noodles into smaller pieces encourages even cooking and makes for easier eating, ensuring each bowl is full of goodness.
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Fat Drainage: Don’t skip draining excess fat from the beef; this keeps your soup lighter and enhances the overall comforting experience.
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Add Cream Wisely: To prevent curdling, always stir in the cream after you’ve removed the pot from the heat—this keeps the texture silky and smooth.
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Thickening Hacks: If your soup thickens after standing, reheat gently on the stove and add broth as needed for optimal consistency.
Variations & Substitutions for Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta
Feel free to put your own spin on this cozy dish—each tweak brings a delightful new layer of flavor!
- Italian Sausage: Swap ground beef for spicy Italian sausage for a zesty kick. The bold flavor infuses the soup with a punch that’s hard to resist.
- Turkey Option: For a lighter soup, substitute ground beef with ground turkey. This keeps the hearty feel while trimming the calories.
- Vegetarian Delight: Omit the meat and add a mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for a satisfying veggie version. The fresh vegetables create a vibrant melody of flavors.
- Extra Greens: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition. You’ll not only boost health but also enhance the soup’s color and texture.
- Gluten-Free Noodles: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles to accommodate dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can enjoy this hearty dish—no one gets left out!
- Cheese Variety: Experiment by substituting ricotta with cottage cheese or goat cheese for a tangy twist. Each cheese brings its unique character to the soup, keeping every bowl exciting.
- Heat Level: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for those who love a spicy kick. The heat complements the rich creaminess beautifully.
- Herb Infusion: Use fresh herbs like basil or thyme instead of dried for a vibrant flavor boost. These fresh touches elevate the soup’s aroma, making it even more inviting.
Each variation offers a chance to make this Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta truly your own, transforming it into a signature dish for your family during cozy gatherings!
Storage Tips for Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta
Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For best texture, keep noodles separate until ready to serve.
Freezer: Freeze the soup without noodles or cream for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it has thickened. Make sure to stir well before serving!
Leftovers: Enjoy the rich lasagna soup with ricotta in creative ways, like a topping for baked potatoes or as a sauce over cooked grains.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the soup base (without the noodles and cream) up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook the ground beef, onions, and remaining ingredients as directed, then let it cool before refrigerating in an airtight container. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight! For best quality, add the broken lasagna noodles and cream just before serving to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting dish, simply reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding broth as needed to reach your desired consistency. This way, you can savor a wholesome meal in minutes, even on the busiest weeknights!
Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ingredients for my Rich Lasagna Soup?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, select high-quality ingredients. Opt for fresh garlic for the most aromatic kick and look for ground beef with a good fat content (around 80% lean) for rich flavor. When choosing crushed tomatoes, brands like Muir Glen offer a sweet balance, while Rao’s Homemade Marinara is top-notch for sauce. If you prefer spicy, consider using hot Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
What are the best storage methods for leftovers?
Very good question! Store your Rich Lasagna Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, I recommend freezing it without the noodles or cream, as that maintains the texture. It can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to seal it tightly, and label it with the date for your convenience.
Can I freeze my Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta?
Yes, you can! To freeze the soup, first cool it completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months, and when you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove, adding broth for desired consistency.
What are some common troubleshooting tips for making this soup?
If your soup turns out too thick, don’t worry! Simply add some broth while reheating to reach your preferred consistency. If it’s too watery, try simmering it longer to reduce the liquid. Also, ensure you break the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces; this allows for better cooking and absorption of flavors. And, should you notice the cream curdling, avoid adding it until off the heat for a silky smooth finish!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very much so! This recipe can easily be adapted for various dietary needs. To make it gluten-free, substitute the lasagna noodles with gluten-free pasta. For a lighter dish, you can replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or skip it altogether. If you’re cooking for a vegetarian crowd, simply omit the meat and add more veggies or beans for protein. Always double-check labels for potential allergens, especially if covering any dietary restrictions.
How should I serve the Rich Lasagna Soup for a crowd?
For a delightful presentation, ladle the soup into bowls and top each with a generous dollop of ricotta, sprinkling with mozzarella and parmesan. Garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color. Serve with crispy garlic bread or a simple Caesar salad, making it a communal dish that everyone will enjoy!
Irresistible Rich Lasagna Soup with Creamy Ricotta Twist
Equipment
- - Large pot
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 lb Ground Beef Substitute with Italian sausage for extra flavor.
- 1 medium Onion Diced into 1/2-inch pieces.
- 3 cloves Garlic Minced.
- 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Adjust to taste.
- 24 oz Italian Sauce Rao's Homemade Marinara recommended.
- 10 cups Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be used for a lighter version.
- 14 oz Crushed Tomatoes Muir Glen for a sweeter taste.
- 2 tbsp Tomato Paste Optional for thicker soup.
- 2 tsp Balsamic Vinegar Can substitute with red wine vinegar.
- 2 tsp Sugar Honey can be used as a natural sweetener.
- 1 tbsp Dried Basil Fresh herbs can be used.
- 1 tbsp Dried Parsley Fresh herbs can be used.
- 1 tbsp Dried Oregano Fresh herbs can be used.
- 1/2 tsp Fennel Seeds Optional but recommended.
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- 1 leaf Bay Leaf Remove before serving.
For the Pasta and Creamy Finish
- 10 oz Lasagna Noodles Broken into pieces.
- 1/2 cup Cream Omit for a lighter soup.
- 1/4 cup Fresh Basil Chopped, for garnish.
- Mozzarella & Parmesan For garnish, any cheese works well.
Instructions
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it's mostly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, around 3-4 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat from the pot, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the Italian sauce, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, sugar, dried herbs, and seasonings. Then pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Break the lasagna noodles into manageable pieces, then stir them into the boiling soup. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes until the noodles are tender.
- Remove the bay leaf, stir in the cream, and adjust the soup's thickness with the remaining chicken broth as needed. Taste, and season with more salt or pepper if desired.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and generously top with ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan. Garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.