There’s something so cozy about curling up with a bowl of soup, especially when it’s a heartwarming, cheesy delight like Simple Lasagna Soup. Just imagining the rich scent of Italian herbs mingling with savory sausage and beef is enough to make my mouth water. After a long day, I crave meals that feel like a warm hug, and this bowl of comfort does just that—delivering all the flavors of classic lasagna in a quick, easy-to-make soup.
This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. In just 45 minutes, you’ll have a dish that’s not only family-friendly but also wonderfully versatile, allowing for your favorite twists with different types of sausage or vegetables. Ready to indulge? Let’s dive into the joy of this Simple Lasagna Soup that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why is Simple Lasagna Soup a Family Favorite?
Comforting Warmth: There’s nothing like diving into a bowl of rich, cheesy lasagna soup to melt away the day’s stress.
Quick Preparation: In just 45 minutes, you can serve a mouthwatering meal that everyone will love.
Hearty & Satisfying: Packed with protein from sausage and beef, this dish satisfies the hungriest of appetites!
Versatile Option: Use sweet or hot Italian sausage or swap in your favorite veggies for a fresh twist.
Minimal Cleanup: Forget complicated dishes! This soup keeps things easy with just one pot required.
Impressive Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a guest gathering, this comforting bowl never fails to impress.
Simple Lasagna Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Ground Beef – A main source of protein; lean cuts work best for a balanced dish.
• Italian Sausage – Adds a robust flavor; sweet or hot variations can be chosen based on your spice level preference.
• Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing aromatics, though can be omitted for a lighter version.
• Yellow Onion – Diced finely to enhance the flavor base through even cooking.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic offers aromatic depth that elevates the entire dish.
• Tomato Paste – Important for deepening flavor and contributing to the soup’s richness.
• Marinara Sauce – A convenient flavor booster; try Rao’s Homemade for a touch of authenticity.
• Chicken Broth – Forms the soup base; low-sodium or homemade versions can be healthier.
• Red Pepper Flakes – A great way to add a hint of heat; adjust according to your preference.
For the Noodles & Greens
• Lasagna Noodles – Broken into bite-sized pieces for easy eating; add them only when the soup is boiling to prevent mushiness.
• Fresh Spinach – Adds nutrition and vibrant color; add towards the end to maintain its freshness.
For the Seasoning
• Fresh Parsley, Dried Oregano, Dried Basil – A blend of herbs that brings a rich Italian flavor profile to your soup.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings that should be adjusted to taste.
For the Toppings
• Ricotta Cheese – A creamy delight that adds richness; whole milk ricotta recommended for best results.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Provides gooey cheesiness; using fresh mozzarella will ensure the best melting quality.
• Parmesan Cheese – Optional for a savory, nutty final touch that enhances the flavors.
• Fresh Basil – For a fragrant finish that elevates your dish right before serving.
This Simple Lasagna Soup has all the elements to become a beloved staple in your home, bringing comfort and joy with every spoonful!
How to Make Simple Lasagna Soup
Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot, warm up the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. This will create a flavorful base for your soup.
Brown the Meats: Add the ground beef and Italian sausage to the pot. Cook them for 6-8 minutes, breaking them up until they’re no longer pink. If there’s excess fat, drain it to keep your soup balanced.
Sauté Aromatics: Toss in the diced onion, cooking until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Incorporate Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for 1-2 minutes. This will deepen the flavor profile of your soup beautifully.
Add Sauces and Broth: Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth, then sprinkle in the red pepper flakes along with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, and then reduce to a simmer to meld the flavors together.
Cook the Noodles: Stir the broken lasagna noodles directly into the boiling soup, then let them simmer for 8-10 minutes or until tender but not mushy.
Finish with Spinach: Add fresh spinach to the pot and cook until it’s wilted—about 1-2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
Combine Cheeses: In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan until well combined. This cheesy blend will crown your soup.
Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and generously top each with the cheese mixture and fresh basil for a delightful finish.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of extra parmesan for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Simple Lasagna Soup
Fridge: Store your soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps the flavors intact while allowing for easy reheating.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup without noodles and cheese for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to restore consistency.
Noodle Tips: If you’ve added noodles before freezing, they may become mushy. It’s best to cook fresh noodles when you’re ready to serve your Simple Lasagna Soup.
Expert Tips for Simple Lasagna Soup
• Noodle Size Matters: Make sure to break lasagna noodles into 1-2 inch pieces to ensure easy eating and even cooking in the soup.
• Boil First: To avoid mushy noodles, only add them once the soup is at a rolling boil. This helps maintain their texture.
• Balance Greasiness: Reserve some rendered fat for flavor, but drain excess fat from meats to keep your Simple Lasagna Soup savory and not overly greasy.
• Fresh Spinach Timing: Add spinach right before serving to keep it vibrant and nutritious. Overcooking will dull its color and flavor.
• Taste as You Go: Always adjust seasoning with salt and pepper towards the end of cooking. This ensures your soup’s flavors resonate beautifully.
Simple Lasagna Soup Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to make this cozy soup your own by exploring delightful twists and substitutions that suit your family’s taste buds.
- Ground Turkey: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner, yet equally satisfying meal.
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace meat with a combination of mushrooms and black beans for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Cheese Variations: Mix in different cheeses like gouda or fontina for an exciting flavor profile.
- Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for extra nutrition and a pop of color.
- Noodle Alternatives: Use gluten-free pasta or chickpea noodles if you’re looking for a gluten-free option.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fresh twist on the traditional Italian flavor.
- Spice it Up: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne for an extra kick in your soup.
- Creamy Touch: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut cream for a richer, velvety broth that’s comforting on chilly evenings.
Embrace creativity and let your culinary spirit shine! Each variation offers a chance to explore new flavors while keeping the heart of this beloved dish intact.
Make Ahead Options
These Simple Lasagna Soup preparations are a game changer for busy weeknights! You can prepare the soup base (without the noodles or greens) up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain freshness, be sure to refrigerate right after cooking. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the soup on the stove, bring it to a gentle boil, and add the broken lasagna noodles and fresh spinach. The pasta will take about 8-10 minutes to cook through in the simmering soup, and you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal ready to enjoy with minimal stress!
What to Serve with Simple Lasagna Soup?
Gather your loved ones around the table and complement that cozy bowl of soup with delightful sides that enhance both flavor and experience.
Garlic Bread: The classic choice, its buttery and garlicky crunch perfectly balances the cheesiness of the soup.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine tossed in creamy dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich soup, brightening every bite. This duo is a comforting staple that hits all the right notes.
Toasted Baguette Slices: Perfect for soaking up the last bits of that delicious broth, they add a lovely crunch to your mealtime.
Light Arugula Salad: With a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette, this fresh salad offers a peppery kick and vibrant colors to your plate, balancing the heartiness of the soup.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers provide a sweet, smoky side that compliments the flavors while adding nutritious elements.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, these warm, gooey cookies bring a sweet ending to your meal, contrasting beautifully with the savory soup.
Enhance your dining experience with these flavorful companions that make every spoonful of Simple Lasagna Soup even more enjoyable!
Simple Lasagna Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of Italian sausage should I use?
You can choose between sweet or hot Italian sausage based on your preference for spice. If you can’t find Italian sausage, using ground pork mixed with fennel seeds can provide a similar flavor profile.
How should I store leftover Simple Lasagna Soup?
Store your soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing to keep it fresh without condensation forming inside the container.
Can I freeze Simple Lasagna Soup?
Absolutely! For freezing, make sure to store the soup without the noodles and cheese. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and it will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
What should I do if the noodles become mushy?
If you find your noodles mushy, it’s usually because they were added too early. For best results, break them into 1-2 inch pieces and only add them when the soup is boiling. If mushy noodles happen after cooking, try adding a splash of broth when reheating to thin the soup out slightly.
Is this recipe suitable for my family with food allergies?
This Simple Lasagna Soup contains beef, pork, and dairy, which may not be suitable for everyone. I recommend checking for any allergies related to those ingredients. For a dairy-free version, try using nutritional yeast in place of cheese or prepare it with dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Savor Simple Lasagna Soup for Cozy Family Nights!
Equipment
- - Large pot
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 lb Ground Beef Lean cuts work best
- 1 lb Italian Sausage Sweet or hot variations
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil Can be omitted for a lighter version
- 1 medium Yellow Onion Diced finely
- 3 cloves Garlic Minced
- 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
- 24 oz Marinara Sauce Try Rao's Homemade for authentic taste
- 4 cups Chicken Broth Low-sodium recommended
- 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Adjust according to taste
For the Noodles & Greens
- 8 oz Lasagna Noodles Broken into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups Fresh Spinach Added towards the end
For the Seasoning
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley
- 1 tsp Dried Oregano
- 1 tsp Dried Basil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
For the Toppings
- 1 cup Ricotta Cheese Whole milk recommended
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Fresh for best melting
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Optional
- 1/4 cup Fresh Basil For garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot, warm up the olive oil over medium-high heat until it's shimmering.
- Brown the Meats: Add the ground beef and Italian sausage to the pot and cook for 6-8 minutes until no longer pink.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes, then add minced garlic for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Incorporate Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Add Sauces and Broth: Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth, then add red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Cook the Noodles: Stir in the broken lasagna noodles and let them simmer for 8-10 minutes.
- Finish with Spinach: Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
- Combine Cheeses: In a bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan until well combined.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle soup into bowls, topping with cheese mixture and fresh basil.