Lasagna Soup is a warm, hearty, and flavorful dish that brings all the familiar flavors of lasagna into a comforting, one-pot meal. Perfect for cozy evenings or when you’re craving the taste of lasagna without the time or effort required for layering and baking, this soup delivers a perfect balance of rich tomato broth, savory Italian sausage, tender pasta, and gooey cheese. Whether you’re preparing a meal for your family, hosting a casual dinner, or simply treating yourself, Lasagna Soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Packed with wholesome ingredients and customizable to your liking, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Let’s dive into how to make this comforting dish step by step.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild, spicy, or sweet, depending on your preference)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces (or substitute with other pasta like bowties or penne)
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Additional shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese
- Crusty bread or garlic bread for serving
Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Sausage Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it into smaller pieces with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. This should take about 6–8 minutes. Remove any excess fat if necessary.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics Add the diced onion to the pot with the sausage and sauté until softened and translucent, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot. Stir well to combine. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta While the soup is simmering, cook the lasagna noodles in a separate pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside. If you prefer to cook the noodles directly in the soup, add them during the last 10 minutes of simmering, but be aware that they may absorb more liquid from the broth.
Step 5: Prepare the Cheese Mixture In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley (if using). Mix until smooth and set aside. This creamy mixture will replicate the cheesy layers of traditional lasagna.
Step 6: Assemble the Soup Add the cooked lasagna noodles to the pot of soup and stir gently to combine. If the soup seems too thick, add a bit more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with a dollop of the ricotta cheese mixture. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top, allowing it to melt into the hot soup. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side for dipping.
Variations
Vegetarian Lasagna Soup: Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add diced zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for extra texture and flavor.
Gluten-Free Lasagna Soup: Use gluten-free pasta or lasagna noodles to accommodate dietary restrictions. Ensure the broth and other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Spicy Lasagna Soup: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage for a spicier kick.
Creamy Lasagna Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier soup.
Cheesy Overload: Add more mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses directly into the pot for an extra gooey texture.
Cooking Notes
For the best results, use high-quality tomatoes and fresh herbs whenever possible. To save time, you can prepare the sausage and onion mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to make the soup. If you plan to have leftovers, store the pasta separately from the soup base to prevent it from absorbing too much liquid and becoming overly soft. Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more or less broth based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Pair Lasagna Soup with a side salad, such as a Caesar salad or mixed greens with a balsamic vinaigrette, to round out the meal. Serve with crusty bread, garlic knots, or breadsticks for dipping. For a heartier dinner, accompany the soup with roasted vegetables or a platter of antipasto.
Tips
For a smoky flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the soup base. Use a mix of sweet and spicy sausage to balance the flavors. Keep the cheese mixture at room temperature before serving so it blends more easily with the hot soup. If you’re serving a large crowd, keep the soup warm in a slow cooker and let guests add their own cheese and garnishes.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 400
Protein: 22g
Sodium: 850mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 18g
FAQs
Q: Can I make this soup in advance? A: Yes, you can prepare the soup base ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add the pasta and cheese mixture just before serving to ensure the best texture.
Q: What type of sausage works best? A: Italian sausage is ideal, but you can use ground beef, turkey, or even plant-based sausage for a different twist.
Q: Can I freeze Lasagna Soup? A: While the soup base freezes well, it’s best to cook and add the pasta fresh after reheating to avoid mushy noodles.
Q: How do I make this soup thicker? A: To thicken the soup, simmer it uncovered for a longer period or add a slurry of cornstarch and water during cooking.
Q: What other pasta can I use? A: Bowtie, rigatoni, or shell pasta are excellent alternatives if you don’t have lasagna noodles on hand.
Conclusion
Lasagna Soup is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of traditional lasagna with less effort and more versatility. This one-pot wonder is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or any time you’re craving a comforting and hearty meal. With its rich tomato broth, savory sausage, tender pasta, and creamy cheese topping, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Customize it to your taste, pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy the heartwarming satisfaction that only a bowl of homemade soup can bring. Give this recipe a try and experience the delicious transformation of a classic Italian favorite into a soul-soothing bowl of comfort.