When the chill of winter starts to seep into the air, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of cozy comfort food to warm both body and soul. That’s where my recipe for Stove Top Lasagna Soup comes in—a delightful twist on the classic lasagna that captures all the rich, cheesy goodness we love in a hearty soup format. Picture this: savory ground beef, spiced Italian sausage, and three layers of cheese mingling together in a savory tomato broth. Each spoonful feels like a warm embrace on a cold night.
I discovered this gem on a particularly blustery evening when I craved something comforting yet simple. After a quick trip to my pantry, I realized I could easily turn my favorite lasagna ingredients into a delightful one-pot meal. Not only does this soup come together in a flash, but it’s also family-friendly, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights. With this recipe, you’ll not only shake off the chill but also delight in the familiar flavors of lasagna without the fuss. So, grab your favorite pot, and let’s dive into this cheesy wonder!
Why is Lasagna Soup the Ultimate Comfort Food?
Comforting Warmth: Picture this heartwarming bowl of soup, a perfect remedy to chilly evenings, bringing the beloved flavors of lasagna to your table.
Rich, Savory Goodness: With layers of savory beef, zesty sausage, and a trio of melted cheeses, every spoonful is an indulgent treat.
Quick & Easy: This recipe is not only simple but comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option.
Family-Friendly: Everyone will gather around for this dish; it’s a sure way to bring smiles to your loved ones’ faces.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your preferred meats and cheeses or even add vegetables for a delicious twist.
One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy the ease of minimal cleanup, leaving you more time to relax and savor your delightful meal.
Lasagna Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Ground Beef – Provides richness and a hearty flavor; use ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Italian Sausage – Adds depth and spice; choose mild or hot according to your taste.
- Diced Yellow Onion – Creates a sweet foundation when sautéed; no substitutions needed.
- Garlic – Essential for aromatic flavor; fresh minced garlic is preferred for best results.
- Tomato Paste – Concentrates the rich tomato flavor; a must-have for this lasagna soup.
- Crushed Tomatoes – Forms the broth’s base; fresh tomatoes can be used if you adjust broth consistency.
- Diced Tomatoes – Adds texture and flavor variations; can be replaced with more crushed tomatoes.
- Chicken Broth – Acts as the soup’s flavorful liquid; substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
For the Noodles
- Lasagna Noodles – Provides the comforting pasta element; any pasta shape will work if you’re in a pinch.
For the Cheesy Topping
- Ricotta Cheese – Offers creaminess reminiscent of traditional lasagna filling; cottage cheese is a lighter alternative.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds a nutty flavor that enriches the soup; can substitute with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully for that gooey texture; consider dairy-free mozzarella or other meltable cheeses.
For Seasoning
- Dried Oregano and Basil – Essential for capturing that classic Italian flavor; fresh herbs can elevate the entire dish.
- Sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes; you can reduce or omit if preferred.
- Hot Sauce and Red Pepper Flakes – For heat adjustment; adjust to your spice preference.
- Salt and Pepper – Basic seasonings to taste; essential for flavor enhancement.
This lasagna soup is ready to transform your dinner table into a warm, inviting space!
How to Make Lasagna Soup
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Cook Meats: In a large soup pot, brown ground beef and Italian sausage over medium-high heat, stirring with a wooden spoon until cooked through, roughly 5-7 minutes.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onion; cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep your soup light and savory.
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Add Seasonings: Stir in minced garlic, tomato paste, oregano, basil, sugar, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about a minute until fragrant; this step enhances the soup’s base flavor.
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Build Flavor: Pour in chicken broth, scraping any brown bits off the bottom of the pot. Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and a bay leaf to deepen those delicious flavors.
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Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20–30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Cook Noodles: Meanwhile, boil lasagna noodles in a separate pot according to package instructions. Drain and chop them into smaller pieces before adding to the soup.
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Finish & Serve: Remove the bay leaf, ladle soup into bowls, and top with spoonfuls of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color.
Optional: Top with freshly chopped basil for an additional burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Lasagna Soup?
When your cozy bowl of soup is ready, it’s time to elevate your dining experience with some perfect pairings.
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Crusty Garlic Bread: This chewy bread is simply irresistible, perfect for soaking up every delicious drop of lasagna soup.
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad adds crunch and balances the hearty flavors, making for a light counterpoint to the savory soup.
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Caesar Salad: With its creamy dressing and crispy croutons, a Caesar salad pairs beautifully, enhancing the Italian theme of your meal.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned with herbs, roasted veggies bring a comforting, caramelized sweetness that complements the dish wonderfully.
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Parmesan Crisps: These crunchy bites provide a salty, cheesy delight that’s perfect for nibbling alongside the rich soup.
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Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine harmonizes beautifully with the flavors of the soup, enhancing your dining experience.
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Zucchini Fritters: These crispy bites offer a delightful texture contrast and a light veggie boost to your meal.
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Tiramisu: Celebrate with a sweet finish! This classic dessert adds a touch of indulgence and rounds off the meal perfectly.
Serve your lasagna soup with these delightful accompaniments, turning your dinner into a warm and memorable feast!
Helpful Tricks for Lasagna Soup
- Perfect Texture: Stir in the noodles just before serving to prevent them from becoming mushy; this keeps your lasagna soup hearty and enjoyable.
- Save for Later: If planning to freeze leftovers, do so without cheese—a fresher addition when you reheat ensures optimal taste and texture.
- Blend for Smoothness: Use an immersion blender for a smoother soup base, especially if you prefer less tomato chunkiness in your lasagna soup.
- Healthier Additions: Toss in vegetables like spinach or zucchini during the last 10–15 minutes of cooking to boost nutrition without altering the comforting flavors.
- Layered Cheese Heaven: For a cheesier finish, reserve some mozzarella and sprinkle it on top just before serving—then broil for a minute to melt it beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Lasagna Soup
Fridge: Store your lasagna soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it cools completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup without any cheese for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if it thickens too much. Stir in fresh cheese just before serving for that delightful creamy texture.
Pro Tip: Avoid freezing finished soup with cheese to preserve texture and flavor; instead, add fresh cheese when you’re ready to serve.
Make Ahead Options
This Stove Top Lasagna Soup is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the soup base, including sautéed meats and vegetables, up to 48 hours in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, avoid adding the cheeses and noodles until ready to serve; this prevents them from becoming soggy. When ready to enjoy your comforting meal, reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat, add cooked noodles and cheeses, and let everything meld together for about 5 minutes. You’ll have a delicious, hearty lasagna soup ready in no time, making busy weeknights a breeze!
Lasagna Soup Variations
Feel free to make this comforting lasagna soup your own by exploring these delightful twists!
- Dairy-Free: Swap regular cheese for almond or cashew-based cheese to enjoy a creamy texture without dairy.
- Vegetarian: Replace ground beef and sausage with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty and satisfying meat-free option.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in spinach, kale, or diced peppers for a nutritious burst of color and flavor; simply add them during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of sriracha to ramp up the heat for those who love a little zing in their soup.
- Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or fresh basil instead of dried, which can elevate the flavor profile wonderfully.
- Creamy Spin: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream at the end for an extra luscious mouthfeel that adds depth.
- Pasta Alternatives: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta or even spiralized zucchini for a lower-carb twist while keeping the comforting pasta element.
- Savory Broth Boost: Enhance the flavor even more by replacing chicken broth with beef broth or a rich homemade vegetable broth for a deeper taste.
Each of these variations can take this cozy dish to the next level, letting your creativity shine through while enjoying every spoonful!
Lasagna Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ground beef or turkey for my soup?
Absolutely! Look for ground beef or turkey that is bright red and has minimal dark spots, as this indicates freshness. For flavor, I often choose a mix of lean and regular ground beef, depending on how rich I want the dish. If opting for turkey, aim for ground turkey that is at least 90% lean to keep it moist while cooking.
How should I store leftover lasagna soup?
Very simple! Transfer your lasagna soup to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it has cooled completely before sealing. When you’re ready to heat, just warm it on the stove over medium heat, and add a bit of broth if it thickens too much.
Can I freeze lasagna soup, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your lasagna soup, I recommend doing so without any cheese added, which can change texture when frozen. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove, adding fresh cheese just before serving.
What if my soup turns out too thick or too thin?
No worries! If your soup is too thick, you can simply add a bit more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency while heating it. On the other hand, if it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a little longer—this will help evaporate excess liquid and thicken it beautifully. Remember, soups can always be adjusted to fit your preference!
Can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Certainly! To adapt your lasagna soup for a vegetarian diet, swap the ground meat for a plant-based alternative, like lentils or mushrooms, which will add great texture. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and pile on your favorite hearty vegetables, like spinach or zucchini, for more flavor and nutrition. It’s a delicious variation that still captures the wholesome goodness of lasagna!
Are there any common allergies I should consider?
Absolutely, be mindful of common allergens such as dairy and gluten. For a dairy-free version, use lactose-free cheese options or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also opt for gluten-free pasta if desired. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure your options are safe for anyone with specific allergies or dietary restrictions.
Savory Lasagna Soup to Warm Your Winter Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large soup pot, brown ground beef and Italian sausage over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes.
- Add diced onion; cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in minced garlic, tomato paste, oregano, basil, sugar, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about a minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping any brown bits off the bottom. Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and a bay leaf.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, boil lasagna noodles in a separate pot according to package instructions. Drain and chop them.
- Remove the bay leaf, ladle soup into bowls, and top with spoonfuls of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan.