Easy Best Lasagna Soup Recipe for a Cozy Dinner
When the weather cools down and cozy evenings invite you to the kitchen, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to nourish your soul. If you’re craving the comforting flavors of lasagna without the fuss of layering pasta sheets, you’ve stumbled upon the best lasagna soup recipe! With its rich tomato base, gooey cheese, and hearty ground beef, this easy lasagna soup is perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Let’s get started!
—
Ingredients & Kitchen Tools
Ingredients
– 1 lb (450g) ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz (225g) uncooked pasta (like fusilli or bowtie)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh basil for garnish
Kitchen Tools
– Large pot or Dutch oven
– Cutting board and knife
– Wooden spoon
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Ladle
—
Prep & Cook Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
—
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon (about 5–7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add diced onions and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent, approximately 3–4 minutes.
3. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, broth, dried basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Incorporate Pasta: Once boiling, add the uncooked pasta and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook according to the pasta package directions, usually around 8–10 minutes, until al dente.
5. Mix in Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in the ricotta cheese until well combined. Then sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil and additional mozzarella if desired. Enjoy your delicious, cozy dinner!
—
Nutritional Benefits or Advantages
Lasagna soup is packed with nutrients that can benefit your health. Ground beef provides protein for muscle health, while tomatoes offer vitamins C and K, as well as lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Adding spinach or other vegetables can boost the fiber content, making it a wholesome meal. Plus, this soup is customizable to fit various dietary needs!
—
Tips, Variations, or Substitutions
– Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a delightful vegetarian alternative.
– Pasta Choices: Any small pasta works well, but you can also use zucchini noodles for a low-carb variation.
– Cheese Lovin’: Mix in different types of cheese such as Parmesan or provolone for a flavor twist.
—
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Overcooking Pasta: Be sure to stir in the pasta during the last few minutes of cooking to avoid mushy noodles.
2. Not Seasoning Properly: Taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed. Each tomato brand may vary in acidity and sweetness.
3. Ignoring Garnishes: Fresh herbs really enhance the flavors. Don’t skip the basil!
—
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to thin out the soup if necessary.
—
Conclusion
This easy best lasagna soup recipe is sure to become a family favorite, perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week. Cozy up with a warm bowl tonight, and don’t forget to share your recreations with us!
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes! It’s even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
2. Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
3. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, just substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta, adjusting cooking time as needed.
4. How can I add spice to my soup?
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick!
