If you have ever dreamed of capturing the hearty, comforting flavors of classic Italian lasagna in a bowl that’s quicker to make and equally satisfying, you are in for a treat with this Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe. It combines the rich taste of browned ground beef, fragrant herbs, and tangy tomato broth with tender pasta and your favorite cheesy toppings. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal, this soup hits all the right notes without the fuss of layering noodles and baking for hours. It’s like a warm hug from Italy in just 40 minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward ingredients come together effortlessly but each plays an essential role in creating that authentic lasagna flavor and perfect soup texture. From the savory browned beef to the fresh herbs and rich cheeses, every component shines.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for browning the meat and sautéing aromatics, adding a subtle fruity layer.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base that brings depth, richness, and that classic lasagna meaty flavor.
- 1/2 cup onion, minced: Adds sweetness and a mellow bite once sautéed until translucent.
- 2 tablespoons garlic, minced: Gives aromatic warmth and a savory punch that livens up the broth.
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes, low or no sodium: The saucy heart of the soup, delivering tang and richness without overpowering.
- 1 bay leaf: Imparts a subtle herbal undertone that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Classic Italian herb adding freshness and a hint of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Brings a mild earthiness and bright color contrast.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Complements the tomato and beef with an aromatic, slightly bitter edge.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and spice.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a gentle kick, but feel free to skip or adjust to taste.
- 4 cups beef stock or beef broth, low or no sodium: The savory liquid base that carries all the flavors together.
- 2 cups water: Lightens the broth to just the perfect consistency.
- 2 cups reginetti pasta or broken lasagna noodles: The soul of the dish; shape and texture bringing that lasagna feel in every spoonful.
- ¼ cup ricotta cheese (optional, for serving): Adds creamy richness and cool smoothness as a finishing touch.
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese (optional, for serving): Provides nutty, salty oomph that rounds out each bowl beautifully.
How to Make Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook it until it’s beautifully browned, about 10 minutes. This step is crucial—it builds the deep, savory base of your soup. Toss in the minced onion and garlic, then sauté them until they’re translucent and fragrant, roughly 5 to 7 minutes. This combination of browned meat and softened aromatics creates layers of flavor that bring true comfort to every bite.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes, Herbs, and Broth to Simmer
Now it’s time for the tomatoes and spices to join the pot. Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with your bay leaf, dried basil, parsley, oregano, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Pour the beef broth and water over everything, stir it up, and bring the mixture to a lively boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it gently simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to marry into a rich, aromatic broth.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta Right in the Soup
After the soup has simmered and the flavors are melded, add your pasta directly into the pot. Stir well and bring the soup back to a boil. This fresh-cooking method keeps the pasta perfectly al dente and infuses it with all the tasty broth flavors. Depending on the pasta shape, cook uncovered for about 4 to 6 minutes—just shy of normal cooking time so it has a nice bite once served.
Step 4: Finish and Serve Your Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe
Before serving, fish out and discard the bay leaf—it has done its job! Ladle the soup into bowls and finish with a generous sprinkle of parmesan and a dollop of creamy ricotta if you’re using it. These toppings make each spoonful feel indulgent and add that authentic lasagna feel that brings the dish full circle. Get ready to enjoy a bowl that is equal parts cozy and flavorful, perfect for any day you crave a taste of Italy.
How to Serve Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe
Garnishes
The magic is in the final touches. Freshly grated parmesan cheese adds a nutty, salty finish, while a spoonful of ricotta cheese offers creamy contrast that softens the tangy tomato broth beautifully. For a pop of green and freshness, sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top. A drizzle of good olive oil elevates the richness, making every spoonful utterly satisfying.
Side Dishes
This soup stands strong on its own but pairs wonderfully with classic Italian sides. Serve with a crusty garlic bread or warm focaccia to sop up every last drop of broth. A simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette adds brightness and crunch to balance the richness. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini also complement the dish with delicate earthiness and color.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not get a little creative with your Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe presentation? Serve in individual bread bowls for an impressive, edible serving vessel that adds extra comfort and fun. Layered in clear glass mugs, the colorful layers of pasta, beef, and tomato broth create a tempting visual treat. Garnishing each bowl with edible flowers like nasturtiums or fresh herbs tied with twine can turn a simple dinner into a special occasion meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Lasagna Soup holds up well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in airtight containers to keep the flavors fresh and prevent the pasta from becoming too soggy. It’s ideal for quick lunches or easy dinners when you don’t feel like cooking from scratch.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. For best quality, consume within 2 months. When freezer-bound, the flavors remain intact and the texture stays satisfying if you reheat gently.
Reheating
When reheating your Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe, warm it gently in a pot over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much after storage. Stir occasionally to reheat evenly and revive the soup’s luscious texture. Avoid microwaving on high heat for long periods to keep pasta firmness and prevent separation.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great leaner alternatives that still provide delicious protein. Just brown them as you would the beef, and adjust cooking times slightly if needed. The herb and tomato flavors will carry the dish wonderfully regardless of meat choice.
What if I want to make this soup vegetarian?
Swap the ground beef for hearty vegetables like mushrooms or lentils for a vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and consider adding additional herbs or a splash of soy sauce for depth. The soup will still deliver that comforting lasagna flavor without the meat.
Can I prepare this recipe in an Instant Pot or slow cooker?
Definitely! The Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe is versatile and adapts well to different cooking methods. The Instant Pot version cuts down the overall cook time, while the slow cooker lets the flavors develop slowly for a luscious, deep broth. The key is adding the pasta toward the end to prevent overcooking.
What pasta works best for this soup?
Reginetti pasta or broken lasagna noodles are ideal because they mimic the texture of lasagna noodles. However, you can use other small pasta shapes like rigatoni, rotini, or even broken spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly and keep an eye for al dente perfection.
Is it necessary to add ricotta and parmesan cheese?
While optional, ricotta and parmesan cheese are what truly give the soup that classic lasagna character. Ricotta adds creaminess and softness, while parmesan adds a sharp, nutty kick. You can skip or substitute with other cheeses if preferred, but they’re highly recommended for an authentic finish.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe is a delightful way to bring all the rich, layered flavors of lasagna into your dinner rotation without the hours in the kitchen. It’s hearty, satisfying, and surprisingly simple to make—a true winner for busy nights or anytime you want the comfort of Italian home cooking in a bowl. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll want to make it again and again.
Print
Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Easy Lasagna Soup recipe transforms classic lasagna flavors into a comforting, hearty soup perfect for any occasion. Featuring ground beef, aromatic herbs, crushed tomatoes, and tender pasta, this soup is both satisfying and simple to prepare. Serve it with a dollop of ricotta and a sprinkle of parmesan for an indulgent finish. With versatile cooking methods including stovetop, Instant Pot, or crockpot, this recipe adapts to your kitchen and schedule.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, minced
- 2 tablespoons garlic, minced (about 3 garlic cloves)
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes, low or no sodium
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional – omit or add to taste)
- 4 cups beef stock or beef broth, low or no sodium
- 2 cups water
Pasta
- 2 cups reginetti pasta or broken lasagna noodles (about 6 oz)
Toppings (Optional)
- 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Brown Beef and Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 10 minutes until browned. Then add minced onion and garlic, sautéing for 5-7 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Simmer Soup: Stir in crushed tomatoes, bay leaf, dried basil, parsley, oregano, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), beef stock, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes to develop flavors.
- Cook Pasta: Add the raw pasta to the simmering soup. Stir well and bring back to a boil. Cook uncovered for 4-6 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Timing depends on pasta shape; cook about 3-4 minutes less than package directions for best texture.
- Serve: Remove and discard the bay leaf. Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with parmesan and ricotta cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For a spicier soup, increase red pepper flakes to your taste preference.
- Pasta can be substituted with any small or broken lasagna noodles or small pasta shapes like rotini.
- Use low or no sodium broth and tomatoes to control the salt content.
- Ricotta and parmesan toppings are optional but add a creamy richness.
- This recipe can easily be doubled or halved depending on servings needed.
- Storing leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator is recommended; pasta may absorb more liquid upon chilling.
