If you adore the comforting taste of Italian lasagna but crave something a little quicker and cozier, then you need to try this Cheesy Lasagna Soup: A Comforting Twist on a Classic Recipe. This soup captures all the cheesy, savory goodness of traditional lasagna in a warm, hearty bowl that’s perfect for any day you want comfort food done right. It’s rich, creamy, loaded with tender noodles and hearty meat, and topped with melty cheeses that will make you feel like you’re dining in an Italian trattoria without the fuss of assembling layers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating your perfect bowl of comfort. These simple but essential components come together to create a balance of savory meatiness, bright tomato flavor, smooth creaminess, and that unbeatable cheesy topping that gives this soup its soul.
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage: Provides the hearty protein and rich flavor foundation for the soup.
- 1 medium onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic: Brings aromatic warmth and an extra layer of flavor.
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes: The vibrant tomato base that makes this soup so comforting.
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth: Creates the perfect liquid balance and helps blend all ingredients.
- 2 cups uncooked lasagna noodles: Broken into pieces to mimic traditional lasagna pasta in every spoonful.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: Adds that classic Italian herb blend that ties everything together.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Offers a gentle kick without overpowering.
- 1 can (15 oz) ricotta cheese: Gives the soup a creamy, luscious texture similar to lasagna layers.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top for that satisfying cheesy finish.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses sharp, nutty notes that elevate the soup.
- Fresh basil or parsley: Optional garnish to add a pop of green freshness and color.
How to Make Cheesy Lasagna Soup: A Comforting Twist on a Classic Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your ground beef or Italian sausage and cook it until perfectly browned. Breaking the meat apart helps it cook evenly and develop that rich, savory flavor essential to the soup’s heartiness. Be sure to drain any extra fat to keep your soup from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together for around 3 to 4 minutes until the onions turn translucent and fragrant. This step builds a beautiful flavor base while softening the aromatics to meld seamlessly with the meat and broth.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and your choice of chicken or vegetable broth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This liquid base is where the magic happens, creating the rich, tomato-forward soup that’s so satisfying.
Step 4: Add Noodles and Seasonings
Drop in the broken lasagna noodles along with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all these essential flavors. The noodles will cook right in the simmering broth, absorbing the rich tomato essence and melding with the herbs perfectly.
Step 5: Simmer
Let the soup simmer for 15 to 20 minutes or until the noodles are tender. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This patient simmering is what gives your soup that homemade, comforting texture where every bite feels like warm hugs on a chilly day.
Step 6: Incorporate Ricotta
Once the noodles are tender, stir in the ricotta cheese. The ricotta melts into the soup, creating a creamy dreaminess that mimics the luscious layers of classic lasagna, taking this dish to a whole new level of indulgence.
Step 7: Add Mozzarella and Parmesan
Remove the pot from heat and fold in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses. As these melt into the soup, they create gooey, cheesy pockets and add layers of sharpness and richness that will make your taste buds sing.
Step 8: Garnish
Ladle your Cheesy Lasagna Soup: A Comforting Twist on a Classic Recipe into bowls, then finish with some fresh basil or parsley if you like. This bright, fresh herb adds a beautiful color contrast and a hint of herbal brightness to each comforting bite.
Step 9: Enjoy
Serve your piping hot soup immediately and savor every spoonful of this creamy, gooey, and satisfying meal. It’s like your favorite lasagna in soup form – perfect for cozy dinners or anytime you want that comforting classic with a fresh twist.
How to Serve Cheesy Lasagna Soup: A Comforting Twist on a Classic Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley make the perfect finishing touch, adding vibrant color and a fresh aroma that balances the creamy, rich soup. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top can also add a flavorful salty kick that brings everything even more alive!
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crispy garlic bread or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. The added crunch from the bread and the crisp freshness from the salad perfectly complement the silky noodles and cheesy broth, creating a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in mini bread bowls or individual rustic ceramic pots to impress guests or family. You can also add a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top for an unexpected tangy sweetness that cuts through the rich cheese and meat flavors delightfully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cheesy Lasagna Soup in airtight containers and place them in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, making it a fantastic option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored for up to 3 months, so you’re always prepared with a comforting meal ready to go.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If thickened too much, add a splash of broth or water to get it back to that perfect silky consistency. Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent the cheese from separating.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free noodles in this soup?
Absolutely! Just swap the traditional lasagna noodles for gluten-free ones, broken into pieces the same way. Keep an eye on cooking times as gluten-free noodles can sometimes cook faster.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Use vegetable broth and omit the meat or substitute it with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian twist without sacrificing flavor.
Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Definitely. You can prepare the soup up to the simmering stage, then cool and refrigerate it uncheesed. Add the ricotta and cheeses fresh before serving for best texture.
What’s the best type of cheese for this soup?
This recipe shines with classic mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta. However, feel free to experiment by adding some provolone or fontina for different flavors while keeping that cheesy goodness intact.
How spicy is this soup?
This Cheesy Lasagna Soup is mild and family-friendly, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer a bit of heat.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Lasagna Soup: A Comforting Twist on a Classic Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly evening. It’s simple to make, bursting with familiar flavors, and offers all the comfort of traditional lasagna without the hours of assembly and baking. Trust me, once you try this cozy, cheesy bowl of goodness, it’s going to become your go-to recipe for satisfying cravings and sharing with loved ones. So gather your ingredients and get ready to fall in love all over again with this delightful soup!
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Cheesy Lasagna Soup: A Comforting Twist on a Classic Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Cheesy Lasagna Soup is a comforting and flavorful twist on traditional lasagna, combining all the classic ingredients of the beloved Italian dish into a warm, hearty soup. Featuring ground beef or Italian sausage simmered in a rich tomato broth with broken lasagna noodles, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, this recipe is perfect for a cozy meal that’s quick to prepare and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (15 oz) ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the ground beef or Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Add Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions turn translucent and fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add Noodles and Seasonings: Add the broken lasagna noodles, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and cooked through.
- Incorporate Ricotta: Stir in the ricotta cheese until it’s well combined and the soup becomes creamy.
- Add Mozzarella and Parmesan: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan until the cheeses melt completely into the soup.
- Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve hot and enjoy your comforting bowl of Cheesy Lasagna Soup.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and omit the meat, or substitute with plant-based protein.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the broth slightly.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can bring a nice spicy kick.
