If you’re craving all the cozy, comforting flavors of classic lasagna without the hours of baking and layering, this Lasagna Soup Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine diving into a warm bowl brimming with tender bowtie pasta, savory ground beef, rich tomato broth, and pockets of creamy cheese that melt beautifully with every spoonful. It’s like lasagna transformed into a deliciously hearty soup that’s perfect for weeknights, feeding a crowd, or anytime you need a hug in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Lasagna Soup Recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are straightforward yet pack so much flavor. Each one plays a special role, from the aromatic garlic and onion that build the base, to the combination of tomatoes and broth that give the soup its rich, vibrant character.
- Olive oil (1-2 tablespoons): A good-quality oil lends richness and helps brown the beef perfectly.
- Ground beef (1 pound): Adds hearty, savory meatiness to keep the soup satisfying.
- Diced onion (1 large): Brings sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Provides warm, aromatic hints that elevate the entire soup.
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, 15 ounces, undrained): Infuses bright, fresh tomato flavor and texture.
- Tomato sauce (1 can, 15 ounces): Helps create a smooth, luscious broth.
- Tomato paste (3 ounces / ¼ cup): Concentrates that rich tomato essence for extra body.
- Chicken broth (4 cups): Forms the savory liquid foundation that carries all the flavors.
- Water (1-2 cups): Ensures the soup is the perfect consistency and can be adjusted as needed.
- Italian seasoning (1 tablespoon): A blend of herbs adds authentic Italian flair without extra fuss.
- Sea salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for balancing and enhancing every ingredient.
- Black pepper (to taste): Adds a gentle kick and warms up the soup.
- Bowtie pasta (8 ounces, uncooked): Its shape captures the broth and cheese wonderfully.
- Ricotta cheese (½ cup): Brings creamy, indulgent dollops that feel indulgent yet light.
- Mozzarella cheese (2 ounces shredded): Melts beautifully, adding pull-apart stringiness.
- Parmesan cheese (¼ cup, shaved or grated): Provides a salty, nutty finish on top.
- Fresh parsley (¼ cup, chopped): Offers bright color and a fresh herbal note to complete the dish.
How to Make Lasagna Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Base
Begin by heating your olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Sauté together until the beef is browned and the onion is tender and fragrant. This step sets the flavor foundation; the caramelized bits and garlic’s aroma give the soup an incredible depth right from the start. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat for a lighter soup.
Step 2: Build the Tomato Broth
Next, stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Pour in the chicken broth and water, then season the mixture with Italian seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper. Turn up the heat until the soup reaches a gentle boil—that moment when all those ingredients start mingling and becoming something magical that smells like an Italian kitchen.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Toss in the uncooked bowtie pasta and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking together or to the pot. This is your chance to adjust the soup’s consistency by adding more water or broth if it feels too thick. The pasta soaks up the delicious tomato broth, creating the perfect lasagna-like texture without the heaviness.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses
The final step is the heart of the Lasagna Soup Recipe—adding the cheeses. Stir in dollops of ricotta, sprinkle in shredded mozzarella, and add your Parmesan cheese. You can mix them right into the pot for a creamy, unified soup or offer the cheeses on the side so everyone can customize their bowls. Finish by scattering fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of freshness and that pretty pop of green.
How to Serve Lasagna Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of a beautiful garnish. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, a few extra shavings of Parmesan, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes can make the dish Instagram-worthy and elevate every bite. A drizzle of good olive oil or a dollop of extra ricotta adds a luscious touch when serving.
Side Dishes
This soup is wonderfully filling on its own, but pairing it with something crispy like garlic breadsticks or a warm baguette is truly divine. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette also pairs well, adding a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy broth.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun dinner party twist, serve Lasagna Soup Recipe in mini ramekins or hollowed-out artisan rolls for an edible bowl experience. You can also layer the soup with toasted bread cubes and baked cheese for a deconstructed lasagna effect that will impress your guests and spark conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your leftover Lasagna Soup Recipe to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The pasta might continue absorbing the broth, so keep an eye on the consistency and add a splash of broth or water when reheating.
Freezing
This soup freezes well if you plan ahead. Store it in freezer-safe containers without the cheese, as dairy can separate when frozen. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and adding fresh cheeses.
Reheating
Warm your leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring often. Add extra chicken broth or water to loosen the soup if it has thickened. Stir in fresh cheese after reheating to bring that creamy texture back to life.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will lighten the soup while maintaining plenty of flavor. Just brown it the same way as you would beef.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
What pasta works best in Lasagna Soup Recipe?
Bowtie pasta is ideal because its shape holds onto the broth well, but feel free to swap in small pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or even broken lasagna noodles if you like.
How spicy is this soup? Can I add heat?
The recipe is mild by default, but you can easily add heat by incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth while it simmers.
Can I prepare parts of this soup in advance?
Definitely. You can cook the meat and aromatics ahead of time and refrigerate. When ready to serve, just combine everything and cook the pasta and broth freshly for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
This Lasagna Soup Recipe is one of those rare dishes that combines ease, comfort, and incredible flavor all in one pot. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking to impress friends with a cozy meal, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and dive into the warm, cheesy goodness of lasagna without any fuss. You’re going to love how this soup brings all your favorite flavors to life in such a fun, simple way.
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Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings (about 12 cups)
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This hearty Lasagna Soup captures all the rich and comforting flavors of classic Italian lasagna in a warm, satisfying bowl. Combining ground beef, tomatoes, pasta, and a trio of cheeses in a savory broth, this soup is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a cozy meal any time of year.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil (or preferred oil)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Tomatoes and Broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce (or tomato puree)
- 3 ounces tomato paste (¼ cup)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1–2 cups water (or more, as needed)
Seasonings and Pasta
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (or more, to taste)
- Black pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces bowtie pasta (uncooked)
Cheeses and Garnish
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- 2 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese (about ½ cup)
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, shaved, shredded, or grated
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Sauté Beef and Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion and garlic are softened, stirring occasionally. Drain any excess fat from the pot to keep the soup from being greasy.
- Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Seasonings: Stir in the undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chicken broth, and 1 to 2 cups of water. Season with Italian seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper to taste. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked bowtie pasta to the boiling soup and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the pasta reaches your desired tenderness. Stir frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Add additional water or broth if the soup becomes too thick.
- Add Cheeses and Garnish: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and well combined. Alternatively, serve the cheeses on the side so each person can add their preferred amount. Garnish the soup with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage for the ground beef for a different flavor profile.
- Adjust the soup thickness by adding more or less broth or water according to your preference.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the beef and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Bowtie pasta can be replaced with other small pasta shapes like shells or rotini.
- This soup can be reheated gently on the stovetop; add extra broth if it thickens too much upon standing.
