Lasagna Soup is a comforting and delicious one-pot meal that brings all the flavors of traditional lasagna into a hearty and warming soup. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying and easy meal. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this delightful dish.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 pound lean ground beef or a mix of half ground beef and half Italian sausage
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 jar (24 oz.) Prego Traditional Italian Sauce
- 8-10 cups low sodium chicken broth (variable)
- 1 can (14 oz.) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 10 uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into 1-2 inch pieces
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
For the Cheese Topping:
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Dollops of ricotta cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Meat
- Brown the Meat:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef (or beef and Italian sausage mix) over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Use a spatula to break the meat into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic:
- Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Liquids and Seasonings
- Add Sauce and Broth:
- Stir in the Prego Traditional Italian Sauce, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste. Add 8 cups of low sodium chicken broth. Stir to combine.
- Season the Soup:
- Add the balsamic vinegar, granulated sugar, dried basil, dried parsley, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and bay leaf. Stir well.
Step 3: Simmer and Cook the Noodles
- Simmer the Soup:
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Cook the Noodles:
- Add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot and continue to simmer for another 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are al dente. If the soup becomes too thick, add additional chicken broth as needed.
Step 4: Add Cream and Finish
- Add Heavy Cream (Optional):
- Stir in the heavy cream to add richness and creaminess to the soup. This step is optional but highly recommended for a luxurious texture.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the Soup:
- Ladle the hot lasagna soup into bowls.
- Add Cheese Topping:
- Top each bowl with shredded mozzarella cheese, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and a dollop of ricotta cheese. Allow the cheese to melt slightly before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Broth Quantity: Adjust the amount of chicken broth based on your desired soup consistency. For a thicker soup, use less broth; for a thinner soup, use more.
- Noodles: Break the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces to make them easier to eat in the soup.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Version:
- Replace the meat with a variety of vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Spicy Kick:
- Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra spicy version.
- Meat Options:
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time. Prepare the soup up to the point of adding the noodles. When ready to serve, reheat the soup and add the noodles to cook until al dente.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover lasagna soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
3. Can I freeze lasagna soup?
Yes, you can freeze lasagna soup. However, it’s best to freeze the soup without the noodles, as they can become mushy upon reheating. Add fresh noodles when reheating.
4. What can I serve with lasagna soup?
Serve lasagna soup with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.
5. Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can use other types of pasta like bowtie, penne, or rotini. Adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type.
The Comfort of One Pot Lasagna Soup
One Pot Lasagna Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines all the delicious elements of lasagna into a hearty soup. The rich tomato broth, tender noodles, and savory meat make this soup a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to satisfy.
Tips for Success
- Adjust Broth Amount: Start with 8 cups of broth and add more if needed to achieve your desired consistency.
- Stir Occasionally: Stir the soup occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Season to Taste: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasonings as needed.
One Pot Lasagna Soup is a delicious and comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion. With its combination of rich tomato broth, tender noodles, and savory meat, this soup is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is simple to prepare and full of delicious flavors. Give this One Pot Lasagna Soup recipe a try and enjoy a satisfying and comforting meal. Happy cooking!
