If you’re craving all the comforting flavors of classic Italian lasagna but want something quicker and cozier, this Lasagna Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It captures the rich, savory essence of lasagna in a warm, hearty bowl, packed with ground beef, tender pasta, tangy tomato broth, and melty mozzarella, making every spoonful a delight. This recipe is simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight but special enough to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this soup is straightforward, but each plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the robust meatiness of ground beef to the fresh brightness of basil garnish, these essentials come together to make magic.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides hearty protein and a rich base flavor that simmers beautifully.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings that unmistakable aromatic punch essential in Italian cooking.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that ties together the herbs for a true lasagna taste.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors without overwhelming.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds subtle warmth and a touch of spice.
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes: Offers vibrant acidity and texture that balance the richness.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, luscious tomato base for the broth.
- 4 cups beef broth: The flavorful liquid foundation that brings everything together nicely.
- 1 cup uncooked pasta: The star carbohydrate, cooking right in the soup to soak up all those savory flavors.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts on top for that irresistible creamy finish.
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish): Adds freshness, color, and a herbal lift at the very end.
How to Make Lasagna Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add in the ground beef, cooking it until it’s beautifully browned and caramelized—that rich color and flavor make all the difference. Once the beef is halfway cooked, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook these together until the onion turns soft and translucent, letting those wonderful aromas fill your kitchen.
Step 2: Build the Soup Base
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the meat and onions with those fragrant herbs and seasoning. Then pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir to combine all the ingredients, and bring the mixture up to a gentle simmer. This is where the flavors start harmonizing beautifully.
Step 3: Add Pasta and Cook
Now, add the uncooked pasta straight into the pot. This step creates a perfectly cooked pasta that’s soaked in the savory broth. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually about 8 to 10 minutes, but keep an eye so it doesn’t get mushy. Once the pasta is tender, your soup is nearly ready to enjoy.
Step 4: Serve Hot with Cheese and Basil
Ladle the piping hot soup into bowls, then generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over each serving. The cheese will melt into creamy pools that enrich every bite. Finish with a handful of fresh chopped basil, giving a pop of color and a touch of herbal brightness to balance the savory richness. Your Lasagna Soup Recipe is now ready to delight!
How to Serve Lasagna Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like fresh basil is key to lifting this dish. You can also sprinkle grated Parmesan for an extra cheesy kick or drizzle a little good-quality olive oil to add a luxurious finish. A pinch of red pepper flakes is perfect if you like a subtle heat contrast.
Side Dishes
This soup shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with warm crusty bread or garlic breadsticks for dipping. A crisp green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette balances out the richness and adds freshness to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in individual bread bowls or sturdy ramekins topped with cheese, then broil briefly to create a bubbly cheesy crust. You can also set up a “toppings bar” with extra cheese, herbs, and chili flakes so everyone can customize their bowl exactly how they like it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Lasagna Soup Recipe tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup, but it’s best to cook the pasta fresh when reheating. Freeze the soup base without pasta in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw and add freshly cooked pasta before serving.
Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add extra broth or water if the soup has thickened too much. Top with fresh cheese and basil just before serving for maximum flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat in this Lasagna Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or Italian sausage are great alternatives that offer different flavor profiles without sacrificing heartiness.
What type of pasta works best in this soup?
Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells work perfectly because they cook quickly and blend well with the soup’s texture.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms or a mix of chopped vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
How spicy is this lasagna soup?
This recipe has a mild flavor profile focusing on herbs and tomatoes, but you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to amp up the heat.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
You can, though it’s best to brown the meat and sauté aromatics first for maximum flavor. Then combine all ingredients except the pasta, adding the pasta during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting about a bowl of Lasagna Soup Recipe—it’s like a warm hug on a chilly day. Easy to make and bursting with classic Italian flavors, this soup is destined to become one of your go-to recipes for busy nights or casual gatherings. Give it a try and watch how quickly it disappears from the bowl!
Print
Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A comforting and hearty Lasagna Soup that brings the classic Italian flavors of lasagna into a warm, brothy meal. Ground beef, tomatoes, and pasta simmer together with Italian seasoning, topped with mozzarella cheese and fresh basil for a delicious bowl ready in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
Pasta and Garnishes
- 1 cup uncooked pasta (such as small shells or elbow macaroni)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the Meat and Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and continue cooking until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Seasonings and Liquids: Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the meat mixture. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook the Pasta in Soup: Add the uncooked pasta directly into the pot. Simmer the soup, uncovered, checking the pasta package instructions for cooking time (usually around 8-12 minutes), until the pasta is tender but still firm to the bite.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top each serving with shredded mozzarella cheese. Garnish with chopped fresh basil to add a fresh, aromatic finish. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Use small pasta shapes like shells or elbow macaroni for best texture in soup.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth.
- Adjust salt to taste depending on the saltiness of the broth used.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid overcooking pasta.
- Can add additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
