This One-Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup is a cozy meal that brings all the flavors of traditional lasagna without the fuss! It’s filled with pasta, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese.
Who doesn’t love a one-pot wonder? The clean-up is a breeze, and I can’t resist a bowl of this comforting soup on chilly evenings. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using ground beef for its rich flavor, but Italian sausage adds a nice kick! If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well, too.
Marinara Sauce: A good jar of marinara is key for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, use canned diced tomatoes with Italian seasoning. For a homemade touch, simmer crushed tomatoes with garlic, onion, and herbs.
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional lasagna noodles give that classic feel. However, you can use any pasta you have on hand! I often break up wide egg noodles or even use a gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
Broth: Beef broth adds depth, but chicken broth is a lighter option. Vegetable broth also works if you want to make it vegetarian. Just be mindful of the flavor balance in the soup.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Noodles in My Soup?
Cooking noodles in soup can be tricky. You want them tender but not mushy! Here’s how to do it right:
- Add broken noodles towards the end of cooking. This way, they don’t overcook.
- Keep the heat at a low simmer after boiling. It prevents the noodles from getting too soft.
- Stir occasionally to make sure they cook evenly and don’t stick together.
- Check the noodles for doneness a minute or two before the time is up—this keeps them al dente!
One-Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Basic Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 6 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 8 ounces broken lasagna noodles (or broken wide egg noodles)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook, making a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish! It’s a quick, comforting meal perfect for busy weekdays.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Meat:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the ground beef or Italian sausage. Cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. If there’s any excess fat, drain it before moving to the next step.
2. Add the Veggies:
Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it softens. Then, toss in the minced garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant. This will really amp up the flavor of your soup!
3. Combine the Sauces:
Now it’s time to pour in the marinara sauce and the beef or chicken broth. Give everything a good stir to mix it all up and bring on those delicious flavors!
4. Stir in the Noodles and Spices:
Add the broken lasagna noodles along with the dried basil, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. Stir everything together to combine.
5. Boil and Simmer:
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a medium-low simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and cooked through.
6. Cheese It Up:
Once the noodles are ready, stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and well blended into the soup. This makes it extra creamy and delicious!
7. Final Touches:
Give the soup a taste and adjust the seasonings if you’d like. If you want more cheese or herbs, now’s the time to add them!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up the soup in bowls, and sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley on top for garnish. Enjoy this hearty and cheesy meal right away while it’s warm!
Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious One-Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes. For a vegetarian version, try using mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables with some plant-based protein.
What Can I Use Instead of Marinara Sauce?
If you don’t have marinara sauce, canned crushed tomatoes with Italian seasoning will work well. You can also make your own sauce by simmering crushed tomatoes with garlic, onion, and herbs.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, just warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. If it seems thick, adding a splash of broth can help restore the soup’s consistency.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the meat with a mix of vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth. This way, you still get all the delicious flavors without the meat!
