The smell of dinner in your home is magical. Last week, I was getting ready for a family gathering. I needed something hearty but simple.
The classic lasagna soup with ricotta was perfect. It could feed ten people in just 45 minutes.
This soup is like a warm hug. It has all the flavors of lasagna but is easy to make. I could see everyone smiling as they ate.
It brought us together and made memories. We all loved it and will remember it for a long time.
What is Lasagna Soup?
Lasagna soup is a mix of lasagna’s favorite flavors in a warm broth. It has Italian sausage, tomato sauce, and big noodles. It’s easy to make and great for busy families.
This soup has meat and cheese layers. It’s yummy and made in one pot. This means less cleaning and more time eating with family.
It serves six people, perfect for family meals. Lasagna soup is warm and tasty. It’s a great choice for anyone who loves lasagna but wants something easy.
Why Classic Lasagna Soup with Ricotta is Perfect for Family Dinners
Classic lasagna soup with ricotta is a hit at family dinners. It combines the tastes of traditional lasagna, loved by kids and adults. The mix of Italian sausage, creamy ricotta, and pasta makes it a favorite.
It’s quick to make, ready in just 35 minutes. This hearty soup feeds six people, giving 9 cups of yummy soup. In cold months, it’s a perfect warm treat.
This soup can be made for different diets. You can make it healthier or for vegetarians or vegans. Its flavors and textures make mealtime special, bringing families together.
Ingredients Needed for Homemade Lasagna Soup
To make a tasty homemade lasagna soup, I need some key ingredients. These ingredients add flavor and make the soup hearty. Here’s what I’ll use to make a cheesy lasagna soup that’s loved by all.
Essential Ingredients
- ½ pound ground beef
- ½ pound ground Italian sausage
- 1 diced yellow onion
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 24 oz. jar of marinara sauce (such as Prego Traditional Italian Sauce)
- 4 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 10 uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into 1-2 inch pieces
- 14 oz. can of crushed tomatoes
- 8 oz. ricotta cheese
- 1 ¼ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 whole bay leaf
Optional Ingredients for Added Flavor
For extra flavor, I can add some optional ingredients. These can make the soup even better. Here are some options:
- † to ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a little heat
- Fresh parsley for garnish and flavor
- Dried oregano and basil for herbal notes
- Additional vegetables such as diced zucchini or mushrooms
- ½ cup heavy cream to enrich the soup
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Easy Lasagna Soup
Making easy lasagna soup is fun. Follow these steps to make a tasty dish. It’s great for beginners or those who want to improve their recipe.
Preparing the Meat and Vegetables
Start by cooking 1 pound of lean ground beef or Italian sausage in a big pot. Add salt and pepper for flavor. After it’s browned, drain the fat and set it aside.
Then, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the pot. Cook 1 cup of diced onion for 5 minutes, until it’s soft. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1-2 minutes more.
Building the Flavor with Sauces and Spices
Add 1/4 cup of tomato paste, two 14.5-ounce cans of diced tomatoes, 1 (8-ounce) can of tomato sauce, and 4 cups of beef broth to the pot. Mix in 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir well and add the cooked meat back in.
Bring the mixture to a boil. This lets all the flavors mix together.
Cooking the Noodles
Once boiling, add 6 uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into pieces. Lower the heat and simmer until the noodles are tender. Stir them now and then.
If you want to add greens, toss in spinach for the last few minutes. This keeps it green and full of nutrients.
Combining the Cheeses
In another bowl, mix 8 ounces of ricotta cheese with 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. This makes the soup cheesy.
When the noodles are done, put the soup in bowls. Top with the cheese mix. This adds a cheesy finish, just like lasagna.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef or Italian Sausage | 1 pound |
| Diced Onion | 1 cup |
| Minced Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Diced Tomatoes | 29 ounces |
| Tomato Sauce | 8 ounces |
| Tomato Paste | 1/4 cup |
| Low Sodium Beef Broth | 32 ounces |
| Italian Seasoning | 2 teaspoons |
| Lasagna Noodles (uncooked) | 6 pieces |
| Ricotta Cheese | 8 ounces |
| Grated Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 cup |
Tips for Making the Best Lasagna Soup Recipe
To make the best lasagna soup, pay attention to a few things. Cook your pasta separately if you want leftovers or to freeze some. This keeps the noodles from getting mushy in the soup.
Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices to your liking. A bit more oregano or red pepper flakes can make a big difference.
Try using different ground meats for a unique flavor. I mix ground beef and Italian sausage for a richer taste. But turkey or veal works great too.
Choose a good marinara sauce for the base of your soup. It makes the soup rich and tasty. For even more flavor, simmer Parmesan rinds in the broth. This adds a delicious umami taste.
Watch the cooking times closely. Cook noodles until they’re al dente, about 10 to 12 minutes. The whole stovetop process takes 24 to 28 minutes.
For busy days, use a slow cooker. Cook it on high for 3.5 hours or low for 7.5 hours.
Use your leftovers wisely. You can keep lasagna soup in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for three months. With these tips, your soup will be a hit.
Vegetarian and Vegan Adaptations of Lasagna Soup
I love making vegetarian and vegan lasagna soup. It’s a plant-based comfort food that everyone can enjoy. Here’s how I make a tasty vegetarian lasagna soup and a vegan version for different tastes.
Vegetarian Lasagna Soup Options
To make a vegetarian lasagna soup, I skip the ground meat. I add big veggies like:
- Zucchini
- Mushrooms
- Diced bell peppers
- Carrots
This mix adds flavor and keeps the soup full and healthy. A homemade tomato sauce is the base, giving it a rich taste. I add Italian herbs like oregano and basil for more flavor.
How to Create a Vegan Lasagna Soup
For a vegan lasagna soup, I keep the veggies but change the cheese. A great choice is plant-based cheese or homemade cashew ricotta made from:
- Extra firm tofu
- Nutritional yeast
- Fresh lemon juice
- Apple cider vinegar
I use vegetable broth to keep it vegan. Nutritional yeast gives it a cheesy taste. Each serving has about 390 calories, 19 grams of protein, and lots of nutrients. It’s great for those who want plant-based flavors.
Serving Suggestions for Comforting Lasagna Soup
I like to add fresh basil and extra cheese to each bowl of cheesy lasagna soup. These touches make the meal feel special. The soup’s flavors create a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
This dish goes well with sides that make the meal better. I often serve it with:
- Garlic bread that soaks up the delicious broth
- A fresh Caesar salad that adds a crisp, refreshing contrast
The mix of textures and flavors shows off the soup’s heartiness. It’s a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy a classic favorite in a new way. I encourage you to explore different pairing options with this cozy dish.
How to Store and Freeze Classic Lasagna Soup with Ricotta
Storing homemade lasagna soup right keeps its taste good for days. Let it cool down first before putting it in the fridge.
Storage Tips
Use an airtight container to store the soup. This keeps it fresh for 3-4 days. It also stops it from picking up fridge smells.
Freezing Instructions for Long-Term Enjoyment
Freezing is great for longer storage. Store the soup base without cheese or noodles. This keeps it tasting and feeling just right.
Put it in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, heat it gently on the stovetop. Cook noodles fresh for the best taste.
Pairing Ideas for Cheesy Lasagna Soup
Adding the right sides and drinks makes cheesy lasagna soup even better. It turns a simple meal into a special treat. The perfect pairings can make classic lasagna soup with ricotta even more enjoyable.
Side Dishes to Complement Your Soup
Here are some tasty sides that go great with cheesy lasagna soup:
- Buttery garlic bread adds a nice crunch.
- Toasted breadsticks are perfect for dipping.
- A crisp green salad offers a cool contrast.
Beverages that Go Well with Lasagna Soup
Choosing the right drink can make your meal better. Here are some great options for cheesy lasagna soup:
- A light red wine, like Chianti or Pinot Noir, goes well with tomato flavors.
- Sparkling water is a refreshing choice.
- Iced tea adds a sweet touch to balance the savory soup.
Health Benefits of Ingredients in Lasagna Soup
Homemade lasagna soup is more than just a tasty dish. It’s full of good stuff that makes you healthy. Each part adds something special to the soup’s health benefits.
2 tablespoons of olive oil gives you healthy fats for your heart. 5 minced cloves of garlic add flavor and help your immune system. 1/2 white onion diced adds nutrients and taste.
2 cups of cherry tomatoes are full of vitamins and antioxidants. 2 tablespoons of tomato paste makes the soup taste better and is rich. 14 ounces of crushed tomatoes add a powerful antioxidant called lycopene.
32 ounces of marinara sauce is full of tomatoes and spices, making the soup deep. 14 ounces of lentils give about 18 grams of protein per cup, helping muscles and energy.
8 ounces of lasagna noodles add carbs for energy. 2 cups of fresh spinach is packed with iron, vitamins A and C, making the soup even better.
2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning and 1 teaspoon of pepper add flavor and health benefits. 2 tablespoons of parsley as a garnish adds vitamins A, C, and K.
For a twist, 1/2 firm tofu block in the tofu ricotta adds protein. 1 cup of raw cashews gives healthy fats and proteins. 1/2 cup of fresh basil adds antioxidants.
This homemade lasagna soup is not only yummy. It’s also great for a healthy diet because of its nutritious ingredients.
Variations of Lasagna Soup to Try
Lasagna soup is very versatile. I like to try different proteins to keep it exciting. Sometimes, I use ground turkey or chicken sausage instead of beef. This makes the soup leaner but just as comforting.
I also add many vegetables to my lasagna soup. Onions and garlic are classic, but spinach, zucchini, and mushrooms are great too. Adding beans makes it even more filling and nutritious.
Changing things up makes lasagna soup a fun journey in my kitchen. I can play with proteins and veggies, and even spices. This way, I always find new flavors to love. It’s a dish that everyone in my family enjoys, showing that lasagna can always be reinvented.
