The Best Lasagna Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the heart and fills the belly, then you need to try The Best Lasagna Soup! This dish brings together all those rich, delicious flavors of classic lasagna but in a comforting soup form. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something easy yet satisfying.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and warmth. You can whip it up in just over half an hour, making it a fantastic option when time is tight. Plus, everyone loves a good bowl of soup, especially one that tastes like their favorite Italian dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute dinners.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the familiar flavors of lasagna in a new and fun format.
• Flexible: Customize your soup with different ingredients or toppings to suit your taste.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: It stores well, so you can prepare it ahead of time and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.
• Comforting Flavors: The combination of beef, tomatoes, and cheese creates a heartwarming dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delightful Lasagna Soup, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll be gathering:

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For Seasoning & Broth

• 1 teaspoon ground thyme
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 Tablespoon brown sugar
• 32 ounce carton chicken broth
• 2 (14.5 ounce) cans petite diced tomatoes
• 15 ounce can tomato sauce

For the Pasta & Toppings

• 2 cups broken Mafalda pasta (or lasagna noodles)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Shredded mozzarella cheese or a dollop of ricotta cheese (for topping, optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this Lasagna Soup is how flexible it is! Feel free to modify it based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes to give your soup a little kick!
• Vegan twist: Substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth for a plant-based version.

How to Make The Best Lasagna Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot, begin by browning and crumbling the ground beef along with the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sautéing these ingredients creates a flavorful base for your soup. The aroma alone will start to make your kitchen feel warm and inviting!

Step 2: Add Garlic

Once your beef mixture is cooked through, add the minced garlic during the last couple of minutes of cooking. This step is key—adding garlic at the end prevents it from burning while still infusing its wonderful flavor into the mix.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

After draining any excess grease from your meat mixture, return it to the pot. Stir in thyme, Italian seasoning, salt, brown sugar, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Bring everything to a boil; this helps meld all those delightful flavors together.

Step 4: Simmer Away

Reduce the heat and cover the pot to let it gently simmer for about 20 minutes. This step allows all those tasty seasonings to permeate throughout your soup.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

After simmering for 20 minutes, add in your broken Mafalda pasta. Stir occasionally as it cooks until tender—this should take about 10 minutes. Depending on how big or small you break up your pasta pieces will affect cooking time slightly.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese

Finally, stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted into that rich broth. Serve out steaming bowls topped with shredded mozzarella or even a dollop of ricotta cheese if you’re feeling indulgent!

With such an easy process and delicious results, The Best Lasagna Soup is sure to become one of your go-to meals! Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making The Best Lasagna Soup

Cooking should be fun, and with these tips, you can easily elevate your Lasagna Soup to a whole new level!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil or parsley can really brighten the flavors of your soup. Just sprinkle some on top before serving to add freshness and a pop of color.
• Adjust the spice level: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. This can give your soup an exciting kick that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
• Customize the pasta: Mafalda pasta is a great choice, but feel free to swap it out for your favorite pasta shapes, like shells or mini penne. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed for different types of pasta.
• Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve—perfect for meal prep!
• Experiment with cheeses: While Parmesan and mozzarella are classic choices, don’t hesitate to try other cheeses like provolone or gouda for a unique twist on flavor.

How to Serve The Best Lasagna Soup

Presentation is key when serving any dish, and this comforting Lasagna Soup is no exception! Here are some delightful ways to present your masterpiece.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil or parsley: A handful of chopped fresh herbs brings a burst of color and freshness that contrasts nicely with the hearty soup.
• Drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds richness and enhances all those delicious flavors.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the soup. Its buttery garlic flavor complements the savory notes of the Lasagna Soup wonderfully.
• Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad, with its crunchy romaine lettuce and creamy dressing, provides a nice balance to the richness of the soup. Plus, it adds some crunch!
• Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots make for a nutritious side that pairs perfectly with the warm flavors of the soup.
• Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft and chewy cheesy breadsticks are always a hit! Their gooey cheese complements the lasagna flavors while being fun to dip into your bowl.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy The Best Lasagna Soup with family and friends! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Lasagna Soup is perfect for meal prep! It’s easy to make in advance, and storing it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Here are some practical tips for storing and enjoying your delicious soup later.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• When stored properly, the flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier!

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions readers often ask about this recipe.

What makes The Best Lasagna Soup so special?

The Best Lasagna Soup combines all your favorite lasagna flavors into a comforting bowl of goodness. It’s hearty, flavorful, and offers a delightful twist on traditional lasagna.

Can I customize The Best Lasagna Soup with different ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap out ground beef for turkey or plant-based alternatives. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility!

How do I ensure my pasta doesn’t get mushy in The Best Lasagna Soup?

To prevent mushy pasta, add it towards the end of cooking. Stir occasionally and keep an eye on it while simmering until it’s just tender.

Can I use other types of cheese for topping The Best Lasagna Soup?

Yes! While shredded mozzarella is traditional, feel free to experiment with provolone, gouda, or even a sprinkle of feta for a unique flavor twist.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making The Best Lasagna Soup as much as I do! It’s a cozy dish that brings warmth and joy to any table. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Don’t hesitate to try it out – I’m excited for you to savor every spoonful!