This Stovetop Ground Beef Lasagna Soup is a warm and cozy twist on classic lasagna! It has all the delicious flavors you love, like tender beef, pasta, and rich tomato sauce, all in one bowl.
You won’t believe how quick this comes together—perfect for those busy nights! I love topping it with cheesy goodness right before serving. What can I say? Cheese makes everything better! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef to keep the soup hearty without being too greasy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken work well, too.
Marinara Sauce: A jar of your favorite marinara gives great flavor. If you have homemade sauce, use that for a fresh twist. You can also swap it for tomato sauce if needed—just add some Italian spices for depth.
Pasta: Small pasta shapes are best for this soup. I like using rotini or broken lasagna noodles, but any short pasta will do. Gluten-free pasta can also be used for those with dietary restrictions.
Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta adds creaminess, but you can substitute with cottage cheese for a lighter option. For a dairy-free alternative, try silken tofu blended until smooth!
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Doesn’t Get Mushy?
The key to perfectly cooked pasta in this soup is timing. To avoid mushiness, add the pasta only after your broth is boiling. Then simmer gently until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Stir your pot occasionally to keep the pasta from clumping or sticking.
- Start with the beef—you want it well-browned to give flavor.
- Don’t rush the onion and garlic; they need time to soften and develop their taste.
- Keep an eye on the soup while the pasta cooks. Check for texture regularly, and if you’re making this ahead, you can cook the pasta separately and combine later.
Following these tips will help you make a delicious, comforting lasagna soup that your family will love!
How to Make Stovetop Ground Beef Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or pasta sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (optional)
- 1 cup small pasta shapes (like broken lasagna noodles or rotini)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Toppings:
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Stovetop Ground Beef Lasagna Soup takes about 15 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so you’ll be enjoying a hearty meal in just about 35 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks, until it’s browned. If there’s excess grease, carefully drain it off to keep the soup light.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This will add great flavor to your soup!
3. Add the Sauces:
Stir in the marinara sauce, beef broth, and optional diced tomatoes. Season with dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper, then bring the mixture to a boil. The wonderful aromas will fill your kitchen!
4. Cook the Pasta:
Once boiling, add your pasta of choice. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the pasta is cooked al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent any pasta from sticking.
5. Prepare to Serve:
Carefully ladle the hot soup into bowls. Add a generous spoonful of ricotta cheese and sprinkle the top with both mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for that melty goodness.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finish by garnishing each bowl with fresh chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm alongside crusty bread or crunchy crackers to soak it all up!
Enjoy your rich, hearty stovetop ground beef lasagna soup that’s not only quick to prepare but also brimming with comforting Italian flavors!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in this recipe. It will give you a lighter version of the soup while still maintaining delicious flavors. Just be mindful that turkey may cook a bit faster and may need less seasoning due to its milder taste.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative or add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for the base.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little extra broth if needed to loosen the soup. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months; just make sure to leave out the pasta until you’re ready to eat it!
What Should I Serve with This Soup?
This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. A simple green salad or a side of roasted veggies can also complement the meal nicely!
