The Best Lasagna Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, then look no further than The Best Lasagna Soup. This delightful recipe captures all the delicious flavors of lasagna but presents them in a hearty soup form. It’s like a big hug in a bowl! Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this soup is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.

What makes this recipe so special is how easy it is to put together. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time. Plus, it’s versatile enough to please everyone—from kids to adults—making it the ultimate comfort food for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: With just one pot required, cleanup is a breeze!
• Family-Friendly: The rich flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike.
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can prep this soup ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to eat.
• Deliciously Filling: Packed with protein and carbs, this soup will satisfy even the hungriest of appetites.
• Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients or toppings to make it your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find and work with. Let’s gather what we need for The Best Lasagna Soup!

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground thyme
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 Tablespoon brown sugar
• 32 ounce carton chicken broth
• 2 (14.5 ounce) cans petite diced tomatoes
• 15 ounce can tomato sauce

For the Pasta

• 2 cups broken Mafalda pasta (or lasagna noodles)

For Topping

• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Shredded mozzarella cheese or a dollop of ricotta cheese (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about The Best Lasagna Soup is how flexible it is! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped spinach or zucchini for added nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like some heat.
• Use different pasta shapes: Experiment with other pasta types like shells or elbow macaroni.

How to Make The Best Lasagna Soup

Step 1: Brown the Meat and Vegetables

In a large pot, brown and crumble 1 pound of ground beef along with 1 small diced onion and 1 diced green bell pepper. Cooking these together is essential because it allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 2: Add Garlic

During the last couple of minutes of cooking, add in 3 cloves of minced garlic. Adding garlic at this stage prevents it from burning while still infusing its wonderful aroma into the mix.

Step 3: Drain Excess Grease

Once your meat mixture is cooked through, drain any excess grease from the pot. Return the ground beef back into the pot; this step keeps your soup from being too greasy.

Step 4: Stir in Seasonings and Broth

Next, stir in 1 teaspoon of ground thyme, 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon brown sugar. Pour in the chicken broth (32 ounces), two cans of petite diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces each), and one can of tomato sauce (15 ounces). Bring everything to a boil; this helps deepen the flavors.

Step 5: Simmer

Reduce heat, cover your pot, and let it gently simmer for about 20 minutes. This simmering time lets all those lovely flavors blend together.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta

After your soup has simmered, stir in 2 cups of broken Mafalda pasta. Keep an eye on it as it cooks until tender—this should take around 10 minutes. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks!

Step 7: Finish with Cheese

Finally, stir in 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted into your delicious soup.

Step 8: Serve

Ladle that comforting soup into bowls. Top each serving with shredded mozzarella cheese or a dollop of ricotta cheese if desired—this adds an extra touch of creaminess!

Now you’re ready to enjoy The Best Lasagna Soup! It’s sure to warm hearts and fill bellies!

Pro Tips for Making The Best Lasagna Soup

Making the perfect Lasagna Soup is all about the little details that elevate the dish to something truly special. Here are some tried-and-true tips to enhance your soup-making experience!

• Use fresh herbs – Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can add a vibrant flavor that dried herbs can’t match, making your soup taste even more delicious.
• Adjust the thickness – If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add more pasta or even a splash of tomato paste. This will give your soup a heartier texture, reminiscent of traditional lasagna.
• Experiment with cheeses – While Parmesan and mozzarella are classic choices, try adding some ricotta cheese directly into the soup for an extra creamy texture or sprinkle some provolone for a different flavor profile.
• Make it ahead – This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and let it sit overnight in the refrigerator; this allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Add veggies – Feel free to throw in some chopped spinach or zucchini during the last few minutes of cooking. This not only boosts nutrition but also adds color and freshness to your soup.

How to Serve The Best Lasagna Soup

Serving Lasagna Soup is just as fun as making it! Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or an inviting gathering with friends, there are plenty of ways to present this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves – A few torn basil leaves on top give your soup a fragrant lift and a pop of color.
• Crushed red pepper flakes – For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper for an extra kick!
• A drizzle of olive oil – A simple drizzle before serving can enhance the richness of flavors and make it look extra appetizing.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread – A warm loaf of garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your Lasagna Soup. The buttery, garlicky flavor pairs wonderfully with the rich tomato base.
• Caesar Salad – A light Caesar salad adds a crisp contrast. The crunch from romaine lettuce and the tangy dressing complement the hearty soup beautifully.
• Steamed Broccoli – Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli offers a nice balance to your meal while adding vibrant color to your table setting.
• Cheesy Breadsticks – Soft and cheesy breadsticks provide that perfect comfort food experience alongside this warm bowl of goodness!

There you have it! With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be well on your way to impressing family and friends with The Best Lasagna Soup. Enjoy every delightful spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Lasagna Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch ahead of time and enjoy the flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store and save your delicious soup.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label each container with the date and contents for easy identification later.
• This soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for the best flavor.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You can also microwave individual portions, heating them in short intervals and stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making The Best Lasagna Soup.

Can I make The Best Lasagna Soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can easily substitute the ground beef with a plant-based alternative such as lentils, mushrooms, or your favorite meat substitute.

How do I customize The Best Lasagna Soup?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices! Spinach, zucchini, or even kale makes great additions. Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed.

Can I use different types of cheese in The Best Lasagna Soup?

Absolutely! While Parmesan and mozzarella are traditional choices, feel free to use any cheese you love. Try gouda or cheddar for a unique twist!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for The Best Lasagna Soup warms your heart and fills your home with delightful aromas! It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. Enjoy making this dish for your family or friends, and don’t hesitate to share your variations—I’d love to hear how you put your own spin on it. Happy cooking!