This Lasagna Soup combines all the flavors of traditional lasagna in a warm and inviting bowl. The hearty mixture of ground meat, tomatoes, and pasta, paired with creamy ricotta and mozzarella, creates a satisfying dish that warms both the body and soul.
Not only is it delicious, but this recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, swapping out the protein, or even using different pasta shapes. It’s a quick, one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with family and friends.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups pasta (like campanelle or penne)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Directions:
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until browned. Drain excess fat, if necessary.
- Add the onion and garlic to the pot, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, broth, pasta, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the pasta is al dente, about 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in the fresh spinach until wilted, then remove the pot from the heat.
- To serve, ladle the soup into bowls, and top each with a dollop of ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of mozzarella, and fresh basil.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 480 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Why Lasagna Soup is So Popular
Lasagna Soup has gained popularity due to its combination of the rich, classic flavors of lasagna with the simplicity and ease of making soup. This dish takes the essential ingredients of lasagna—savory meat, hearty pasta, tangy tomato sauce, and creamy cheese—and deconstructs them into a single-pot dish. Its popularity stems from how quickly it can be prepared while still delivering the comforting, indulgent taste of traditional lasagna. Plus, it avoids the time-consuming layering and baking process required for classic lasagna.
Nutritional Aspects
Lasagna Soup can be a balanced meal, offering protein from the meat (or meat substitutes), carbohydrates from the pasta, and essential vitamins and fiber from vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, and other added greens. The cheeses provide calcium, and the broth base can be adjusted to your dietary needs, whether you prefer a lighter vegetable broth or a rich, full-bodied chicken broth.
To make it even healthier, lean ground turkey or plant-based proteins can replace traditional ground beef or pork. Additionally, whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta can be used to accommodate dietary restrictions, while reducing the overall carb content. Spinach or other vegetables also add a boost of nutrients without extra calories.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Lasagna Soup is ideal for meal prep, as it stores well and can easily be reheated. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to three months. If you plan to freeze the soup, it’s best to cook the pasta separately or leave it out of the soup until you reheat it, so it doesn’t become mushy.
Adaptations and Customization
There are endless ways to adapt Lasagna Soup to suit different tastes and dietary needs:
- Vegetarian or Vegan Option: Substitute the meat with plant-based crumbles or lentils, and use vegan cheeses or skip the cheese altogether.
- Spicy Variation: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage. You can also add fresh or pickled jalapeños for a unique twist.
- Dairy-Free Version: Omit the ricotta and mozzarella or replace them with dairy-free alternatives for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
Cultural Context
While Lasagna Soup is a modern invention, it pays homage to the centuries-old Italian dish of lasagna, which itself has origins dating back to the Ancient Romans and Greeks. Lasagna as we know it today—with layers of pasta, meat, and cheese—became popular in Italy during the Renaissance period, particularly in the regions of Emilia-Romagna and Naples. Lasagna Soup, while not traditional, is an inventive and accessible way to enjoy the essence of this beloved dish.
Variations of Lasagna Soup
One of the beautiful aspects of Lasagna Soup is its versatility. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. You can also add lentils or beans for protein.
- Cheesy Spin: For an extra cheesy experience, incorporate more ricotta or mix in a variety of cheeses like Gouda or cheddar alongside the mozzarella.
- Spicy Twist: For those who enjoy heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or spicy Italian sausage to the mix, or even some diced jalapeños.
- Herb-Infused: Fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil can elevate the flavor profile. Consider adding them at the end for a burst of freshness.
Serving Suggestions
When serving Lasagna Soup, presentation can enhance the dining experience:
- Toppings: Offer a variety of toppings such as freshly grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness and acidity.
- Side Dishes: Pair the soup with crusty garlic bread or a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.
- Garnishing: Serve the soup in large, rustic bowls, and sprinkle with fresh herbs or a dollop of pesto for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Lasagna Soup stores well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage—just ensure you let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to maintain the desired consistency, as pasta can absorb liquid over time.
Conclusion
Lasagna Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl that can easily adapt to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Its ability to bring together family and friends around the table makes it a staple for gatherings, while its straightforward preparation allows anyone to enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or shared with loved ones, Lasagna Soup will undoubtedly warm hearts and satisfy appetites.