As the chill of autumn sets in and the leaves start to turn, there’s an undeniable urge to gather around the table with warm, comforting food. Enter my Easy Lasagna Soup a delightful twist on your classic lasagna that’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners. I first whipped up this hearty dish during a busy evening, when the thought of assembling lasagna felt a bit too daunting. To my surprise, what emerged was a creamy, cheesy soup that captured all the rich flavors of lasagna but with the ease of one pot cooking!
Imagine the intoxicating scent of garlic sizzling alongside tender veggies and savory ground beef, all simmered in a velvety tomato broth. This soup is not only a feast for the senses but also an answer to weeknight dilemmas, combining speed and flavor without compromising on comfort. Thanks to a trio of luscious cheeses, each bowl is a warm embrace, ready to please the whole family or impress friends at your next gathering. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will soon become a staple in your home!
Why is Lasagna Soup the perfect comfort food?
Comfort Food Redefined: This Lasagna Soup elevates your typical dinner into a cozy feast, combining all the beloved elements of traditional lasagna in a quick and easy format.
One-Pot Wonder: Minimal clean-up means more time to enjoy with loved ones, making it an ideal choice for busy nights.
Flavor Explosion: The infusion of three types of cheese and a medley of vegetables offers a delicious twist that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Customizable Goodness: Whether you prefer a classic recipe or want to experiment with healthy twists, this soup can easily adapt to suit your family’s tastes.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, this hearty dish will impress both family and friends, creating memorable moments around the table.
Lasagna Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Olive Oil – Use extra-virgin for best flavor.
• Yellow Onion – Substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
• Garlic – Fresh cloves yield the best taste; can use garlic powder in a pinch.
• Ground Beef – Lean ground turkey can be used for a lighter version.
• Italian Seasoning – Can substitute with individual herbs like oregano and basil.
• Kosher Salt – Adjust to taste; sea salt is a suitable alternative.
• Black Pepper – Freshly ground delivers optimal flavor.
• Ground Nutmeg – Adds subtle warmth; avoid if sensitive to spices.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Omit for a milder soup, if preferred.
• Tomato Paste – Enhances tomato flavor; substitute with fresh tomatoes if desired.
• Chicken Broth – Use low sodium to control salt levels; vegetable broth works great.
• Butternut Squash – Substitute with zucchini or sweet potato if unavailable.
• Marinara Sauce – Homemade or store-bought; consider roasted garlic marinara for depth.
For the Noodles and Greens
• Lasagna Noodles – Can use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta; break into thirds for easier eating.
• Chopped Kale or Spinach – Any leafy green, such as Swiss chard, can be used for variation.
For the Cheese Blend
• Ricotta Cheese – Replace with cottage cheese for a lighter version.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Substitute with provolone for a sharper flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese – Optional but recommended; nutritional yeast can replace for dairy-free option.
• Fresh Basil – Dried basil may be used, but adjust quantity.
For Extra Creaminess
• Heavy Cream – Omit for a lighter soup or substitute with half-and-half.
This delightful Lasagna Soup is a lovely way to warm your home and your heart with each delicious bite!
How to Make Lasagna Soup
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat; add chopped onion and cook until soft, around 4-6 minutes. This step builds a flavorful foundation for your soup.
- Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring gently to avoid burning. The aroma will fill your kitchen!
- Add ground beef, Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and red pepper flakes; brown the meat for about 3-5 minutes until fully cooked. This is where the magic begins!
- Mix in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to enhance the tomato flavor fully. You’ll notice a rich depth in aroma.
- Pour in chicken broth and diced butternut squash; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 5 minutes. The squash will soften and blend seamlessly.
- Stir in marinara sauce, then add lasagna noodles; simmer until noodles are tender, which will take about 10 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking!
- Incorporate chopped kale (or add spinach at the end); stir until the greens are wilted and vibrant. This adds color and nutrition!
- Combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and 2 tablespoons basil in a separate bowl; roll into small balls. This cheesy mix is a delightful surprise!
- Remove soup from heat, then stir in heavy cream and remaining basil; gently float cheese balls in the soup before serving, leaving them a little melty.
Optional: Top with fresh basil for an aromatic finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Lasagna Soup?
As you dive into this creamy bowl of goodness, you might be wondering what delicious accompaniments could elevate this meal even further.
- Garlic Bread: The ultimate pairing, crispy and buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of that rich soup.
- Fresh Salad: A bright, crisp green salad adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty soup. Think vibrant cherry tomatoes and a zesty vinaigrette for an invigorating finish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Sweet, caramelized roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts provide a lovely balance to the creaminess of the soup.
- Parmesan Crisps: These crunchy, cheesy bites are addictive and make for a tasty, textural contrast with each spoonful of the soft soup.
- Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine, such as Chianti, complements the deep flavors beautifully while adding a touch of sophistication.
- Dessert: A light dessert, like a fruit tart or lemon sorbet, rounds off the meal perfectly, refreshing your palate after such a rich dish.
Pairing these delightful sides with your Lasagna Soup will create an unforgettable dining experience that warms the heart and hides the chill of autumn!
Make Ahead Options
These Lasagna Soup preparations save time during busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables, brown the ground beef, and mix the cheese blend up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the prepared ingredients separately to maintain their freshness and prevent the noodles from soaking up broth. When you’re ready to serve, just add the broth and noodles to the soup base, bring it to a boil, and simmer until the noodles are tender. Stir in the cheese balls right before serving for that extra creaminess. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, homemade Lasagna Soup with minimal effort!
Lasagna Soup Variations & Substitutions
Customize your Lasagna Soup to suit your taste and dietary needs with these delightful twists and swaps! Embrace creativity in your kitchen and let your senses guide you in making this dish your own.
- Meat Swap: Replace ground beef with lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. This change retains the hearty feel while cutting down on fat.
- Vegetarian Delight: Use a plant-based meat alternative instead of meat to make your soup vegetarian-friendly. You’ll still achieve that satisfying, meaty essence without any animal products!
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. Not only do they add color, but they also deepen the overall taste profile of the soup.
- Cheese Variation: Opt for sharp Cheddar or Gruyère in place of the traditional cheese blend for a richer, bolder flavor. Each cheese adds its own personality.
- Heat It Up: Sprinkle in cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for an extra kick. Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance to ensure it’s just right for you.
- Whole Grain Goodness: Switch out regular lasagna noodles for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. This small swap can make a big difference in nutrition while keeping the dish just as satisfying.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute all cheeses with a blend of cashew cream and nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version that still delivers creamy deliciousness. Your taste buds won’t even miss the dairy!
- Herb Harmony: Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of basil for a unique flavor twist. These aromatic herbs will add depth and freshness that sing in your soup.
Let your culinary instincts shine! The beauty of this Lasagna Soup is its flexibility: you can mix and match ingredients to create a dish perfect for every occasion.
How to Store and Freeze Lasagna Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Lasagna Soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure to cool it down to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze Lasagna Soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. For better quality, separate the soup from the cheese mixture before freezing.
Reheating: Thaw frozen soup in the fridge overnight. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if needed to adjust the consistency.
Airtight Tips: Always ensure your containers are airtight to prevent freezer burn and retain the soup’s wonderful flavors when storing.
Expert Tips for the Best Lasagna Soup
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality olive oil and fresh garlic will elevate the flavor of your Lasagna Soup significantly. Don’t skimp here!
- Sauté to Perfection: Make sure to caramelize the onions and garlic until well-cooked; this brings out their sweetness and depth, creating a flavorful base.
- Watch the Noodles: Under-cook the lasagna noodles slightly, as they’ll continue to soften in the residual heat. Aim for al dente for the best texture!
- Mix Cheeses Right: Roll the ricotta mixture tightly into balls to prevent breakage in the soup. This ensures each bowl is packed with cheesy goodness!
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings gradually, especially salt and spices. This way, you can avoid overpowering the delicate balance of flavors.
- Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add different vegetables to your soup for extra nutrition. Just ensure they complement the overall taste of the Lasagna Soup!
Lasagna Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of zucchini or squash should I use for this soup?
Absolutely! For this Lasagna Soup, I recommend using fresh, firm zucchini or butternut squash. Look for vegetables with smooth skin and without dark spots. If using zucchini, medium-sized ones will work best; they provide a nice texture. Butternut squash adds a natural sweetness that complements the broth beautifully!
How long can I store leftover Lasagna Soup in the fridge?
You can store your leftover Lasagna Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before sealing to maintain its freshness. If you notice liquid separation, a gentle stir should bring it back together when you’re ready to enjoy your seconds!
Can I freeze Lasagna Soup? If so, how?
Definitely! Freezing Lasagna Soup is a great option if you have leftovers. To preserve the best quality, I recommend separating the soup and the cheese mixture. Store them in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring; this prevents ice crystals from forming, keeping your soup rich and flavorful.
What can I do if my noodles are overcooked?
Very! If your noodles in the Lasagna Soup are overcooked, don’t worry too much! While they may be softer than desired, you can still salvage the dish’s flavor and presentation. Next time, try cooking the noodles just until al dente beforehand, then combine them with the soup right before serving. This way, they’ll stay firmer even after simmering.
Are there any dietary considerations for this soup?
Of course! If you or someone you’re serving has dairy allergies, consider substituting the cheeses with dairy-free alternatives such as cashew or almond-based options, and nutritional yeast for the Parmesan. For gluten-free diets, simply swap in gluten-free lasagna noodles. The great thing about the Lasagna Soup is its adaptability to suit various dietary needs!
Hearty Lasagna Soup with Three Cheeses and Veggie Boost
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat; add chopped onion and cook until soft, around 4-6 minutes.
- Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring gently.
- Add ground beef, Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and red pepper flakes; brown the meat for about 3-5 minutes.
- Mix in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and diced butternut squash; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in marinara sauce, then add lasagna noodles; simmer until noodles are tender, about 10 minutes.
- Incorporate chopped kale; stir until the greens are wilted.
- Combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and 2 tablespoons basil in a separate bowl; roll into small balls.
- Remove soup from heat, stir in heavy cream and remaining basil; gently float cheese balls in the soup before serving.