I’m always busy in the kitchen. Sometimes, I want to make a comforting dish but don’t have much time. That’s when I found a great solution: one-pot cheesy lasagna soup.
This recipe is easy and quick. It tastes just like lasagna but with less work. You only need one pot, which makes cleaning up a breeze.
In just 30 minutes, your kitchen will smell amazing. You’ll get the flavors of marinara, garlic, and herbs. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight.
This soup became a favorite in my house. It’s easy to make and fills you with comfort. No fuss, just delicious food.
Why I Love One-Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup
One-Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup is a hit in my kitchen. It’s easy and tastes like a warm hug. You can make it in about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy nights when you need a quick, tasty meal.
Ease of Preparation
Making this soup is a breeze. First, I brown the ground beef in 8 minutes. Then, I add onions, bell peppers, and garlic. It’s simple and fun to cook.
The soup cooks together, making cleanup easy. It’s the go-to meal when I’m short on time but want something delicious.
Delicious Comfort Food
This soup is a comfort food dream. It’s full of cheesy goodness and savory spices. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
It’s perfect for any time, whether it’s a cozy night or a big gathering. It always brings people together.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Preparation Time | 30 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 25 minutes |
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Serving Size | 8 servings |
| Calories per Serving | 525 kcal |
| Carbohydrates per Serving | 63 g |
| Protein per Serving | 28 g |
| Fat per Serving | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat per Serving | 7 g |
| Fiber per Serving | 5 g |
| Maximum Freezer Duration | 3 months |
| Maximum Refrigerator Storage | 4 days |
Ingredients for One-Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup
Making a great One-Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup needs the right ingredients. This easy recipe lets you try different things. Let’s look at what makes this soup so good.
Essential Ingredients
First, here are the must-haves for this soup:
- 1 pound of lean ground meat (beef, chicken, or turkey)
- ½ pound of ground Italian sausage
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
- 5-6 cloves of garlic (mashed)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- ¼ cup of tomato paste
- 1 (28 ounces) can of crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups (32 ounces) of broth (chicken recommended)
- 8 ounces of lasagna sheets (broken into pieces)
- 2 tablespoons of Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup of fresh basil (chopped)
- 1 cup of ricotta cheese
- ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup of mozzarella cheese (for topping)
Optional Add-Ins for Customization
This soup is great because you can change it up. I like to add things I like or need. Here are some ideas:
- Different pasta shapes instead of lasagna sheets
- Adding vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers
- Adjusting cheese levels with more mozzarella or a sprinkle of cheddar
- Swapping out the protein for plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian option
This soup is not only filling but also quick to make. It’s a great chance to get creative. Start making your own One-Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup today!
Step-by-Step Guide to Make One-Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup
Making cheesy lasagna soup is easy and fun. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy night with friends. This recipe feeds six people and is sure to please.
Preparing the Ingredients
Start by getting your ingredients ready:
- 1 pound of ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 4-5 cloves of garlic, finely minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) of marinara sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) of crushed tomatoes (like San Marzano or Muir Glen)
- 8-10 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
- 10-11 uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into 2-inch pieces
- ½ cup of heavy cream (optional)
- 1½ teaspoons of sugar to balance acidity
- Your choice of spices: Italian seasoning, oregano, parsley, rosemary, bay leaf, and basil
- Recommended garnishes: mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta cheeses
Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s cook the lasagna soup!
- In a big 7-9 quart Dutch oven, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage. Do this over medium heat for 8-10 minutes. Drain any extra fat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is clear.
- Put in the marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, and chicken broth. Let it boil.
- After boiling, lower the heat. Add the broken lasagna noodles. Simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring now and then.
- If you’re using heavy cream, add it in the last few minutes. It makes the soup creamier.
- Season with sugar, spices, and herbs to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with your favorite cheeses.
Flavor Profile and Seasoning Options
Making the perfect one-pot cheesy lasagna soup needs the right flavors. The marinara sauce is key. Brands like Prego and Rao’s make a great base.
Choosing the right sauce is important. It makes a big difference in how your soup tastes.
Choosing the Right Marinara Sauce
Look for a marinara sauce that’s not too acidic or too sweet. A good sauce can make simple ingredients taste amazing. I like Prego Traditional Italian Sauce for its classic taste.
Rao’s is a premium choice that adds depth. Find a sauce that makes your soup taste better.
Herbs and Spices to Enhance Your Soup
Herbs and spices are key for flavor. I add dried basil, oregano, and thyme for a nice smell and taste. A little sugar balances the tomatoes’ acidity.
A splash of balsamic vinegar adds complexity. For some heat, add ¼ to ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes.
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Prego or Rao’s Marinara Sauce | Base flavor and richness |
| Dried Basil (1 tbsp) | Provides sweetness and depth |
| Dried Oregano (1 tsp) | Enhances Italian flavors |
| Dried Thyme (1 tsp) | Adds earthy notes |
| Granulated Sugar (1 ½ tsp) | Balances acidity |
| Balsamic Vinegar (2 tsp) | Introduces complexity |
| Red Pepper Flakes (¼ to ½ tsp) | Adds heat |
Knowing how these ingredients work together helps make a delicious lasagna soup. The right marinara sauce and seasonings make it special.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Lasagna Soup
Making the perfect One-Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup needs some skill. It’s all about getting the soup just right and using leftovers smartly. Here are my top tips to make this dish a joy to eat.
Adjusting Thickness of the Soup
Knowing how to adjust the soup’s thickness is key. If it’s too thick, add more broth. Start with 2 to 3 cups of chicken broth. This lets you adjust based on how much the noodles soak up.
For a creamier soup, add ricotta cheese at the end. It makes the soup richer and more delicious.
Using Leftover Ingredients Wisely
Leftovers are perfect for soup. I like to add leftover veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or carrots. It’s a great way to reduce waste and boost the soup’s flavor.
Using what you already have on hand makes the soup your own. Add leftover pasta or meat to turn a simple meal into something special.
These tips will help you make a tasty One-Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup. They also make cooking more fun and efficient.
Serving Suggestions for One-Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup
When you serve lasagna soup, you can make it special. I like to add yummy sides to make it even better. Let’s look at some great choices.
Accompaniments to Consider
- Crispy garlic bread is a great side. It’s buttery and garlicky, perfect with the soup.
- A fresh Caesar salad adds a nice crunch. It balances the soup’s creamy feel.
- Roasted veggies add health and taste to your meal.
- An antipasto platter with olives, meats, and cheeses is a tasty contrast.
Best Ways to Garnish
Garnishes can make your lasagna soup look and taste amazing. Here are some ideas:
- Put ricotta cheese on top for a creamy touch.
- Add mozzarella and Parmesan for more cheese.
- Chopped basil adds color and a fresh taste.
- Drizzle olive oil or balsamic glaze for extra flavor and look.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Enjoying One-Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup later needs the right storage and reheating. I keep my soup fresh by using airtight containers. This keeps the flavors good for future meals.
Storing Leftovers
I cool the soup and put it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays good for 4-5 days. If I want it to last longer, I freeze it for up to 3 months. Always label the containers with dates.
Reheating the Soup
When reheating, I follow some tips. In the microwave, I heat it for 1-2 minutes on high. I stir it halfway for even heating. On the stovetop, I heat it over medium until warm.
Sometimes, I add broth to make it creamy again. This makes every bowl taste like it’s just made.
Variations of One-Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup
Trying different lasagna soup variations is fun. It lets you make the dish your own while keeping it cozy. You can use different ingredients and changes to suit many tastes.
Vegetarian Options
For a veggie soup, skip the meat and add lots of veggies. I like to add mushrooms, butternut squash, and spinach. These add flavor and nutrients.
Using vegetable broth makes it meat-free. This way, everyone can enjoy it.
Substitutions for Dietary Needs
There are many ways to make this soup fit dietary needs. Use gluten-free pasta instead of regular lasagna noodles. This way, no one misses out.
For protein, try veggie ground. It’s like meat but not. I love making meals that fit our family’s diet and taste great. You can use different cheeses and beans to make it for everyone.
Why This Recipe is a Family Favorite
The One-Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup is a hit in my home. It’s easy to make and perfect for busy nights. It cooks in just 30 minutes, making it a stress-free meal.
This soup is loved by all because of its hearty texture and rich flavors. It’s made with lean ground meat, marinara sauce, and creamy cheeses. My 14-year-old even helps out, making dinner a fun family activity.
This soup does more than just fill our bellies. It brings us together. Whether it’s dinner or leftovers, it’s a symbol of comfort and togetherness. It’s a meal that creates lasting memories.
