If you love lasagna but crave something cozier and easier, this lasagna soup is your dream come true. It delivers everything you adore about the traditional Italian favorite hearty ground meat, tender noodles, tangy tomato broth, and creamy cheese in a warm, spoonable form. Perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights, this comforting soup combines the soul of pasta recipes with the ease of comfort soup recipes. Whether you’re meal prepping or sharing a family dinner, this creamy lasagna soup satisfies cravings without the layering or baking. One pot, 40 minutes, and pure comfort in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate Comfort Food: Combines all the flavors of lasagna in a cozy soup form.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes no need to bake or assemble layers.
- Family Favorite: Kid-approved and hearty enough for grown-ups.
- Make Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable for keto or gluten-free diets.
- Perfect for Fall: One of the best easy fall soup recipes to warm your soul.
⏱ 3. Preparation and Cooking Time
| Step | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Servings | 6 bowls |
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 6 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
- ½ cup heavy cream or milk (for creamy lasagna soup)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add onion and garlic; cook until fragrant and translucent.
- Add Tomatoes & Broth: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth. Bring to a boil.
- Season: Add basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Add Pasta: Break lasagna noodles into bite-size pieces and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until noodles are tender.
- Make It Creamy: Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream for a creamy lasagna soup finish.
- Add Cheese: Mix in ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan until slightly melted.
- Serve & Garnish: Ladle into bowls and top with extra cheese and fresh herbs.
How to Serve
- Serve hot with a sprinkle of mozzarella or a dollop of ricotta for authentic lasagna flavor.
- Pair with a crisp side salad or garlic bread for a full Italian-inspired meal.
- Garnish with basil, parsley, or a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant finish.
- Add a glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon for balance.
Additional Tip
- Low Carb Swap: Replace noodles with zucchini ribbons for a keto-friendly twist.
- Make Ahead: Cook noodles separately if storing overnight; add before serving to prevent sogginess.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of red wine during simmering for depth.
- Protein Upgrade: Mix half beef and half sausage for a richer base.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap cream and cheese for coconut milk and vegan mozzarella.
Recipe Variations
- Keto Lasagna Soup: Use zucchini or shirataki noodles for a low-carb pasta alternative.
- Vegetarian Lasagna Soup: Skip the meat and add mushrooms, spinach, or lentils for heartiness.
- Spicy Italian Lasagna Soup: Add spicy sausage or chili flakes for extra kick.
- Cheesy White Lasagna Soup: Replace tomato base with Alfredo sauce and white cheese for a creamy, rich version.
Freezing and Storage
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 4–5 days | Store in airtight containers; reheat gently. |
| Freezer | Up to 2 months | Freeze before adding cheese for best texture. |
| Reheat | Medium heat on stovetop | Stir in a splash of broth or cream to restore consistency. |
💡 Meal Prep Tip: Freeze individual servings for quick weekday lunches or dinners.
Special Equipment
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Soup Pot | For browning and simmering |
| Wooden Spoon | Stirring ingredients evenly |
| Ladle | For serving portions |
| Measuring Cups | Accurate liquid ratios |
| Cutting Board & Knife | Prepping vegetables and herbs |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make lasagna soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat first, then combine all ingredients (except dairy and cheese) in your slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours, then stir in cheese and cream before serving.
Is lasagna soup keto-friendly?
Traditional lasagna soup isn’t, but swap noodles for zucchini or shirataki noodles and skip the tomato paste for a lower-carb version.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Use your favorite gluten-free lasagna noodles or small pasta shapes.
What cheese works best for lasagna soup?
Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan give the best creamy and cheesy balance just like classic lasagna.
How can I make this dairy-free?
Use coconut cream and vegan cheese alternatives the soup will still be rich and flavorful.
Conclusion
This lasagna soup is the definition of cozy. It captures the essence of traditional lasagna in a single comforting bowl. Whether you crave creamy lasagna soup for fall dinners or a hearty meal that brings your family together, this recipe delivers every time. From its rich tomato base to the melty cheese finish, it’s an easy favorite among comfort soup recipes and pasta recipes. Pair it with bread or salad, and you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal made right at home.