Introduction to Lasagna Soup
Lasagna soup is a delightful twist on the classic lasagna that warms both your heart and your taste buds! Imagine all the flavors of your favorite lasagna but served in a cozy, comforting bowl of soup. It’s rich, cheesy, and packed with hearty ingredients like ground beef, sausage, and fresh spinach. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little extra TLC, this one-pot meal is your new go-to comfort food.
Why is lasagna soup the ultimate comfort food? First, it's incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to suit your taste—whether you're a meat lover or prefer a vegetarian option, you can create a version that hits the spot. Plus, with the ease of preparation and the savory aroma wafting through your kitchen, you’ll find that making dinner feels less like a chore and more like a labor of love.
This delicious soup not only fills your belly but also brings that nostalgic feeling of family dinners around the table, making it a perfect meal for gatherings with friends or cozy nights in. Want to dive deeper into this comforting dish? Keep reading for the full recipe and tips on how to make it uniquely yours!
Ingredients for Lasagna Soup
Essential ingredients for the perfect soup
Creating a delicious lasagna soup starts with the right combination of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- ½ pound lean ground beef
- ½ pound ground Italian sausage
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 recipe homemade marinara sauce (or 24-ounce store-bought)
- 7 cups low sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 9 lasagna noodles (broken into pieces)
- 10 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
These ingredients work together to create that classic, comforting lasagna flavor in a bowl.
Optional ingredients for customization
Don’t hesitate to personalize your lasagna soup. Add these optional ingredients for a twist:
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves for added nutrition
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a kick
- Dried oregano and basil for extra flavor
Feel free to get creative! You might include vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, perfect for a hearty vegetarian or vegan version. Curious about other variations? Check out more ideas here on Cooking Light.
By mixing and matching, you’ll make this dish your own while keeping it wonderfully satisfying on those chilly nights.
Step-by-Step Preparation of Lasagna Soup
Making a comforting bowl of lasagna soup at home is easier than you might think! With just a few steps, you'll have a delicious, hearty meal ready to warm your soul. Let’s break it down.
Brown the meats
Start by heating your large pot over medium-high heat. Add ½ pound each of ground beef and Italian sausage to the pot, seasoning them with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Use a meat chopper to break the meat into smaller pieces. Cook these until they’re perfectly browned and no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain any excess grease and set the meat aside, ensuring it’s ready to join the party later.
Sauté the vegetables
In the same pot, lower the heat to medium and pour in 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add 1 chopped yellow onion and sauté until soft and translucent, which should take around 5 minutes. As the onion becomes fragrant, toss in 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for an additional minute. The aroma should be delightful! If you want to kick things up a notch, consider adding some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.
Combine with sauces and spices
Next, it’s time to bring in the flavors that will define your lasagna soup. Add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, your marinara sauce (either homemade or store-bought), and a combination of spices: red pepper flakes, parsley, oregano, and basil. Stir in 7 cups of low sodium chicken broth to create a robust base for your soup. Make sure everything is mixed well and then return the browned meat back into the pot. Bring the entire mixture to a boil.
Cook the noodles
When the soup has reached a bubbling boil, it’s time to toss in 9 broken lasagna noodles. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer. Stir occasionally, allowing the noodles to absorb that rich, savory flavor. Cook until the noodles are tender, usually around 10-12 minutes. If you’re looking to sneak in some greens, consider adding 2 cups of fresh spinach leaves here for more nutrition.
Mix in the cheeses
In a separate bowl, combine 10 ounces of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This cheesy mixture will add that signature creamy touch to your lasagna soup. Stir into the pot until everything is beautifully melded together.
Serve and enjoy!
With your comforting lasagna soup ready, it’s time to serve! Ladle the hot soup into bowls, and be sure to spoon some of that delectable cheese mixture right on top. Garnish with fresh basil for an extra pop of color and flavor. As you dig in, relish the harmonious blend of flavors that make this dish a favorite for many. Enjoy every warm, gooey bite!
For more tips on how to customize your lasagna soup, check out the original recipe here.
Variations on Lasagna Soup
Vegetarian Lasagna Soup
For a delicious vegetarian twist on this classic lasagna soup, simply omit the ground beef and sausage. Instead, load it up with extra chopped vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers for added flavor and texture. This bold variation ensures you don’t miss the meat while keeping your meal hearty and satisfying.
Vegan Lasagna Soup
Going entirely plant-based? You can create a delightful vegan lasagna soup by following the vegetarian modifications but swapping out the cheese for homemade cashew ricotta or nutritional yeast. This change retains the creamy texture you crave, proving that you can enjoy comfort food without the dairy.
Alternative Pasta Options
Not a fan of traditional lasagna noodles? Feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, like penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options. Just be mindful of cooking times, as different types may require adjustments to ensure a perfect texture in your lasagna soup.
For more pasta inspiration, check out resources from the Pasta Association or refer to seasonal vegetable guides to enhance your soup's flavor.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Lasagna Soup
Best Practices for Flavor Enhancement
To elevate your lasagna soup, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. These additions brighten the flavors and enhance the overall taste. Fresh herbs like basil and parsley not only add color but also a delightful aromatic quality. Don’t skip on seasoning—taste as you go and adjust to your preference!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Lasagna soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it perfect for meal prep. For make-ahead convenience, assemble the soup up to step 4, omitting the noodles, and then refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply bring it to a boil and cook the noodles. Want to freeze it? This is a practical option too! Just freeze without the cheese and reheat when you’re ready for a cozy meal.
For an in-depth look at storing and handling cooked pasta, check out this guide from the USDA.
Serving Suggestions for Lasagna Soup
Ideal Accompaniments
To elevate your lasagna soup experience, consider pairing it with fresh garlic bread or a light Caesar salad. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes adds an extra kick, while a side of roasted vegetables can complement the dish beautifully. For a lighter touch, a refreshing arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette works wonders too.
Creative Ways to Present the Soup
Presentation can make your lasagna soup a feast for the eyes. Serve it in rustic bread bowls for a cozy twist, or in elegant white dishes to highlight the soup's rich colors. Don’t forget to top each bowl with a generous dollop of the cheese mixture and a sprinkling of fresh basil for that picture-perfect finish! For more tips on enhancing your meal's visual appeal, check out this guide on food presentation.
Time Breakdown for Lasagna Soup
Preparation Time
Getting ready for your lasagna soup adventure takes just 10 minutes. Gather your ingredients, chop your veggies, and you’ll be all set to dive into cooking.
Cooking Time
Once you're prepped, let the magic happen. The cooking process will take about 40 minutes, allowing flavors to meld beautifully as the soup simmers.
Total Time
In less than an hour, you'll have a delicious lasagna soup at your table—a total of just 50 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an inviting weekend meal with friends.
Ready to savor a bowl of this scrumptious soup? Get the full recipe here and delight in every comforting bite!
Nutritional Facts for Lasagna Soup
Calories and Macronutrients
With 521 calories per serving, this lasagna soup is a hearty and filling option for dinner. Each serving contains approximately:
- 36g carbohydrates,
- 31g protein, and
- 28g fat.
This makes it a well-balanced meal that will keep you satisfied without overdoing it.
Vitamins and Minerals It Provides
Beyond its deliciousness, this soup offers a variety of essential vitamins and minerals:
- Vitamin A (1370 IU): Great for your eyes and immune system.
- Calcium (276 mg): Supports bone health thanks to the cheese included.
- Iron (3 mg): Crucial for energy and overall health.
By incorporating ingredients like spinach and rich cheeses, lasagna soup provides a wealth of nutrients. For a deep dive into the importance of these vitamins, the Nutritional Guidelines can provide valuable insights.
Enjoy the comforting flavors of lasagna in a warm bowl of soup, knowing you're also nourishing your body!
FAQs about Lasagna Soup
Can I freeze lasagna soup?
Absolutely! Lasagna soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months, but a small tip — skip adding the cheese before freezing. Instead, store your soup in a freezer-safe container, then thaw it in the refrigerator overnight when you're ready to enjoy a warm bowl. Reheat it slowly on the stovetop for the best results.
How do I add more vegetables?
Want to boost your veggie intake? There are endless ways to enhance your lasagna soup with vegetables! Consider adding chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or even bell peppers in step 3 while cooking the onion and garlic. You could also toss in some kale or diced carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheating your delicious lasagna soup is simple! Pop it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it warms thoroughly. If you have a microwave, just transfer it to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it, and heat in one-minute intervals, stirring in between to get even warmth. Enjoy that comfort food!
For more tips on meal prep or freezing soup, consider visiting The Kitchn.
Conclusion on Lasagna Soup
A delicious way to elevate homemade meals!
Incorporating lasagna soup into your meal rotation not only warms the soul but also brings a blend of flavors that’ll delight your taste buds. This comfort dish is a fantastic way to enjoy the essence of lasagna in a cozy, soup format. Enjoy making it your own! For more recipe inspiration, check out Bon Appétit.
Lasagna Soup
Equipment
- Meat Chopper
- Enameled Pot
Ingredients
Meat
- ½ pound lean ground beef
- ½ pound ground Italian sausage
- salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Vegetables
- 1 yellow onion chopped
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 Tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (or 2 teaspoon dried)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves (optional)
Liquids and Sauces
- 2 Tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 recipe homemade marinara sauce (or 24 ounce marinara sauce)
- 7 cups low sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
Pasta and Cheeses
- 9 lasagna noodles broken into pieces
- 10 ounces ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Garnish
- fresh basil for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook ground beef and sausage until browned. Season with salt and pepper as you cook. Drain grease and remove meat from the pot.
- In a large pot heat olive oil over medium heat. Toss in diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add in minced garlic and cook for another minute or two.
- Stir in tomato paste, marinara sauce, spices, and broth. Return meat to pot.
- Bring to boil then add lasagna noodles (broken into 4ths) to pot and reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until noodles are tender. Add spinach, if using.
- In a small bowl, stir together mozzarella, Parmesan and ricotta cheeses.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls, and dollop a scoop of the cheese mixture on top. Garnish with fresh basil.
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