This Creamy Lasagna Soup is a cozy, one-pot meal that combines all your favorite lasagna flavors with a soothing broth. It’s rich and cheesy, perfect for chilly days!
Making this soup is like giving lasagna a warm hug! I love how quick it comes together. Just cook, stir, and relax while it simmers. Serve it with crusty bread for extra comfort!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: I love using Italian sausage for that extra flavor kick, but ground turkey or chicken works well too for a lighter option. You could even go meatless with a mix of mushrooms and lentils!
Diced Tomatoes: If fresh tomatoes are in season, feel free to use them instead! About 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes will work great. Canned tomatoes are convenient but check for low-sodium options if watching sodium intake.
Ricotta Cheese: If you’re not a ricotta fan, try cottage cheese or cream cheese for a different creaminess. You can also leave it out altogether if you prefer a lighter version.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter soup, substitute half-and-half or even milk. If you want to keep it dairy-free, use coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from the Meat?
The meat is what brings a hearty depth to your soup, so prepping it correctly is key. Here’s a straightforward way to ensure it’s flavorful:
- Start with a hot pot to get a good sear on the meat, which builds richness.
- Break it into small pieces as it cooks, allowing it to brown evenly.
- Don’t rush the onion and garlic; sauté them until soft. This releases sweetness that enhances the overall flavor.
Taking your time at the beginning pays off later in taste. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Creamy Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 6 no-boil lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy lasagna soup comes together in about 30 minutes! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients, and around 20 minutes cooking everything to perfection. It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef or Italian sausage into the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. You want it to be browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Next, add the chopped onion to the pot. Stir and let it cook for about 3 minutes, until the onion is softened. Then, mix in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells amazing!
3. Add the Broth and Tomatoes:
Now, pour in the chicken broth, the can of diced tomatoes (don’t drain it), the tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a boil—this will create the delicious base for your soup!
4. Cook the Noodles:
Once boiling, add in your broken lasagna noodles. Reduce the heat to medium and let them simmer for about 10 minutes until they are tender.
5. Add the Spinach:
Stir in the chopped spinach and allow it to cook for about 2 minutes, just until it wilts. It adds a lovely freshness to the soup!
6. Make It Creamy:
After the spinach is in, reduce the heat to low. Fold in the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan, and heavy cream. Stir until all the cheeses melt and create a wonderfully creamy mixture.
7. Season to Taste:
Give your soup a taste. Add more salt and pepper if needed. Adjust the flavors to your liking!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
It’s time to serve! Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley or basil if you like. This creamy, hearty soup is best enjoyed hot, with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Enjoy your cozy, comforting Creamy Lasagna Soup!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great healthier alternative to beef or sausage. Just keep in mind that it may be a bit leaner, so you might want to add a touch more olive oil or seasonings to enhance the flavor.
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this Creamy Lasagna Soup! Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for great flavor and texture!
What Should I Serve with This Soup?
This soup is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple mixed green salad. Enjoy dipping the bread into the creamy soup for that extra comfort!
