There’s nothing quite like coming home to the comforting scent of a warm soup simmering on the stove. This Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta captures all the indulgent flavors of classic lasagna in a cozy, one-pot meal that’s ready in under an hour. Imagine sinking your spoon into a hearty broth filled with savory ground beef, tender lasagna noodles, and delightful bursts of creamy ricotta. After a long day, this dish transforms your kitchen into a haven of warmth and goodness.
What’s even better? This soup is remarkably customizable. Whether you prefer the zing of Italian sausage or a medley of different cheeses, you can easily tailor it to suit your tastes. There’s just something so satisfying about enjoying a hearty bowl of soup that’s not only simple to prepare but also feeds the soul. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to whip up this delectable comfort food in no time!
Why is Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta So Amazing?
Comforting Flavors: This soup brings the warmth of classic lasagna to your bowl, creating a cozy dining experience.
Quick Preparation: Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners when time is of the essence.
Customizable Options: Want a spicy kick? Swap ground beef for Italian sausage, or mix up the cheese for your favorite flavors.
Hearty and Filling: Each spoonful is packed with protein-rich ingredients, making it a satisfying meal for the whole family.
Easy Cleanup: One-pot cooking means less mess—just enjoy your delicious creation without the hassle!
This Rich Lasagna Soup is a must-try for anyone seeking a delicious twist on traditional comfort food.
Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Ground Beef – Provides protein and a savory base. Use Italian sausage for a spicier alternative.
- Onion (1 diced) – Adds sweetness and depth to the broth. Can substitute with shallots for a milder flavor.
- Garlic (6 cloves, minced) – Infuses strong aromatic flavors into the soup. Fresh is best, but garlic powder may be used in a pinch.
- Red Pepper Flakes (3/4 tsp) – Adds heat and flavor. Adjust according to spice preference.
- Italian Sauce (24 oz) – For a rich flavor base. Rao’s Homemade Marinara recommended, or any quality jarred sauce.
- Chicken Broth (10 cups) – Provides the soup’s body. Low-sodium variety allows for better control over saltiness.
- Crushed Tomatoes (14 oz) – Enhances soup’s texture and flavor. Muir Glen preferred for sweetness.
- Tomato Paste (2 tbsp) – Concentrates tomato flavor. Can substitute with more crushed tomatoes if necessary.
- Balsamic Vinegar (2 tsp) – Balances acidity and adds complexity. Can use red wine vinegar if unavailable.
- Sugar (2 tsp) – Balances acidity from tomatoes.
- Dried Basil (1 tbsp), Dried Parsley (1 tsp), Dried Oregano (1 tsp) – Add Italian herb flavor. Fresh herbs can be substituted for dried, using three times the amount.
- Fennel Seeds (1/2 tsp) – Adds a subtle anise flavor. Omit if not preferred.
- Salt (1 tsp) and Pepper (1/2 tsp) – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
- Bay Leaf (1) – Imparts a subtle earthiness; remove before serving.
- Lasagna Noodles (10, broken into pieces) – Absorb soup flavor. Pre-cooked or fresh noodles could be substituted, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
For the Creaminess
- Cream (1/2 cup) – Adds richness to the soup. Substitute with whole milk for a lighter version.
For the Toppings
- Fresh Basil (1/4 cup, chopped) – For garnish. Use parsley or additional herbs as an alternative.
- Mozzarella, Parmesan, Ricotta – For garnish. Opt for Galbani ricotta for the best creamy texture.
This Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta embodies comfort and makes for a quick dinner that the whole family will adore!
How to Make Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta
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Brown the Beef: Begin by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb of ground beef, cooking until it’s browned and crumbly. Drain off excess fat, but leave about 1 tablespoon for flavor.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Toss in 1 diced onion and cook until softened, which takes about 5-7 minutes. Stir in 6 minced garlic cloves and 3/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, sautéing for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Combine the Sauces: Pour in 24 oz of Italian sauce, 14 oz of crushed tomatoes, 2 tbsp of tomato paste, 2 tsp of balsamic vinegar, 2 tsp of sugar, and add the dried herbs (1 tbsp dried basil, 1 tsp dried parsley, 1 tsp dried oregano), 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper along with 1 bay leaf. Stir well and add 6 cups of chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil.
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Add the Noodles: Break 10 lasagna noodles into pieces and add them to the pot. Reduce the heat to medium-low, letting it simmer for 20-30 minutes until the noodles are tender but not mushy.
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Finish the Soup: Remove the bay leaf and gently stir in 1/2 cup of cream. Adjust the thickness by adding 2-4 cups of broth, depending on your preference, and heat until warmed through.
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Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hearty soup into bowls, topping generously with dollops of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and sprinkle freshly chopped basil on top for that vibrant finish.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Planning ahead with this Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta makes weeknight cooking a breeze! You can prepare the soup base—minus the noodles and cream—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply brown the ground beef, sauté the aromatics, combine the sauces, and let everything simmer, then cool and refrigerate in an airtight container. To maintain the rich flavor, store the lasagna noodles separately so they don’t become soggy. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the soup on the stove, add the broken noodles, and simmer until tender, stirring in the cream right before enjoying! This way, you’ll have a cozy, delicious meal ready with minimal effort after a long day.
Expert Tips for Rich Lasagna Soup
- Broth Control: Avoid adding all the chicken broth at once to prevent a watery texture; reserve some for adjusting later.
- Grease-Free Beef: Remember to drain the excess fat after browning the ground beef for a leaner soup experience.
- Noodle Maintenance: Store leftover noodles separately to maintain their texture, adding more broth when reheating the Rich Lasagna Soup.
- Flavor Boost: Mix ricotta with herbs or grated Parmesan before adding it on top for an extra flavor punch in each bowl.
- Consistent Texture: Monitor noodle cooking closely; they should be tender yet firm, enhancing the soup’s overall heartiness.
What to Serve with Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta?
Pairing this comforting bowl with the right sides elevates the experience, turning a cozy meal into a delightful feast.
- Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery goodness is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the rich broth.
- Caesar Salad: Fresh greens with a creamy dressing add a crisp texture and balanced flavor to complement the warm soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection provide a sweet contrast that enhances the soup’s savory notes.
- Italian Chianti: A medium-bodied red wine pairs beautifully, accentuating the dish’s tomato-based flavors with its bright acidity.
- Cheesy Garlic Knots: Soft, warm knots made with garlic butter and gooey cheese create an irresistible treat that complements the soup.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Adding a refreshing mix of seasonal fruits offers a sweet balance that brightens the entire meal.
Each pairing not only complements the rich lasagna soup but also adds layers of flavor and texture that make your dining experience even more enjoyable!
Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Variations
Feel free to get creative and put your unique spin on this delicious soup!
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Italian Sausage: Swap the ground beef for Italian sausage for a spicier, flavor-packed twist. The richness of the sausage complements the tomato perfectly.
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Turkey Option: Use ground turkey instead for a leaner, healthier version, while still keeping that savory goodness.
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Cheese Medley: Mix mozzarella, provolone, and cheddar for a delightful cheese combination that adds depth and creaminess to every bite.
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Vegetable Boost: Stir in fresh spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for added nutrition and a pop of color. Fresh veggies bring a vibrant crunch.
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Low-Carb Alternative: Swap lasagna noodles for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to enjoy a lighter, low-carb dish without losing the comforting flavors.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme for a fragrant note. Fresh herbs can elevate your soup’s aroma and taste significantly.
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Creamy Twist: Substitute cream with a cashew cream for a dairy-free version that’s still rich and velvety. This swap lets everyone enjoy this comfort food without any ingredients they can’t have.
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Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers for those who enjoy an extra kick in their soup. A hint of heat livens up the flavors beautifully!
Storage Tips for Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Separate the noodles to maintain their texture, adding fresh broth when reheating.
Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to enjoy your warm, hearty Rich Lasagna Soup again.
Reheating: When ready to serve, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding reserved broth as needed for desired consistency. Top with fresh cheese and herbs for best flavor!
Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef should I use for the soup?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using ground beef with a bit of fat (like 80/20) to give the soup a rich base. You can certainly swap it for Italian sausage for a spicier kick or use ground turkey for a leaner option, depending on your dietary preferences.
How should I store leftover lasagna soup?
Store your Rich Lasagna Soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Be sure to keep the noodles separate to maintain their texture, which means they won’t soak up all the broth and become mushy. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, add fresh broth when reheating to achieve the perfect consistency.
Can I freeze Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! I recommend portioning it into freezer-safe containers or bags, allowing it to cool completely first. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then gently warm it on the stovetop. Just add in some fresh noodles and cream for the best results!
What if my soup is too watery?
If your soup turns out too watery, don’t fret! First, try to simmer it uncovered to allow some liquid to evaporate. If the noodles have already been added, mash a few of them against the side of the pot to thicken the broth. Alternatively, you can mix in a bit of cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to help thicken it.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Very much! If you prefer fresh herbs, you can substitute them. The rule of thumb is to use three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried. For instance, use 3 tablespoons of fresh basil instead of 1 tablespoon of dried basil. Just be sure to add them towards the end of cooking for that vibrant flavor boost!
Is this recipe suitable for kids or those with allergies?
Absolutely! This soup is customizable, so you can adjust ingredients based on your family’s preferences or allergies. It’s a great way to sneak in vegetables—add fresh spinach or chopped carrots if desired. Just be sure to check for specific allergies if you’re serving it to kids or guests!
Delicious Rich Lasagna Soup with Ricotta for Cozy Nights
Equipment
- - Large pot
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 lb Ground Beef or Italian sausage for spicier alternative
- 1 Onion, diced can substitute with shallots
- 6 cloves Garlic, minced fresh is best, but garlic powder may be used
- 3/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes adjust according to spice preference
- 24 oz Italian Sauce Rao's Homemade Marinara recommended
- 10 cups Chicken Broth low-sodium recommended
- 14 oz Crushed Tomatoes Muir Glen preferred for sweetness
- 2 tbsp Tomato Paste can substitute with more crushed tomatoes
- 2 tsp Balsamic Vinegar can use red wine vinegar if unavailable
- 2 tsp Sugar balances acidity from tomatoes
- 1 tbsp Dried Basil fresh herbs can be used
- 1 tsp Dried Parsley fresh herbs can be used
- 1 tsp Dried Oregano fresh herbs can be used
- 1/2 tsp Fennel Seeds omit if not preferred
- 1 tsp Salt adjust to taste
- 1/2 tsp Pepper adjust to taste
- 1 Bay Leaf remove before serving
- 10 Lasagna Noodles, broken into pieces pre-cooked or fresh noodles could be substituted
For the Creaminess
- 1/2 cup Cream substitute with whole milk for a lighter version
For the Toppings
- 1/4 cup Fresh Basil, chopped use parsley or additional herbs as an alternative
- Mozzarella
- Parmesan
- Ricotta opt for Galbani ricotta for the best texture
Instructions
Preparation
- Brown the Beef: Begin by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, cooking until it’s browned and crumbly. Drain off excess fat, but leave about 1 tablespoon for flavor.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Toss in the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine the Sauces: Pour in the Italian sauce, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, sugar, and add the dried herbs, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Stir well and add the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil.
- Add the Noodles: Break the lasagna noodles into pieces and add them to the pot. Reduce the heat to medium-low, letting it simmer for 20-30 minutes until the noodles are tender but not mushy.
- Finish the Soup: Remove the bay leaf and gently stir in the cream. Adjust thickness by adding reserved broth as needed, and heat until warmed through.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls, topping generously with dollops of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and sprinkle freshly chopped basil on top.