Lasagna is a classic comfort food that warms the soul, but what if you could enjoy all its delicious flavors in a comforting bowl of soup? Introducing Lasagna Soup—a hearty, flavor-packed dish that's perfect for cozy nights at home. Imagine the rich taste of tomatoes, savory ground beef, and perfectly cooked pasta, all swimming in a warm, comforting broth. This recipe is incredibly easy to make, and with our detailed guide, you'll have the perfect Lasagna Soup on your table in no time. So, grab your ingredients, and let's dive into the world of Lasagna Soup!
What is Lasagna Soup?
Lasagna Soup is a deconstructed version of the traditional lasagna casserole, transformed into a hearty and flavorful soup. Instead of layering pasta, cheese, and meat sauce in a baking dish, you simmer all the ingredients together in a pot to create a rich, flavorful broth that captures the essence of lasagna. This dish combines the best elements of lasagna—ground beef, tomato sauce, pasta, and cheese—into a single, satisfying bowl of soup. It’s perfect for those who love lasagna but are looking for a quicker, less labor-intensive way to enjoy its delicious flavors.
Ingredients List for Lasagna Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make 12 cups of Lasagna Soup:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: For sautéing and adding a rich flavor.
- 1 pound Lean Ground Beef: The foundation of the soup, providing protein and a savory base.
- 1 large Onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the soup.
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced: Brings a punch of flavor and aroma.
Tomato and Broth Ingredients:
- 1 (15-ounce) can Diced Tomatoes: Adds texture and a tangy tomato flavor. Do not drain.
- 1 (15-ounce) can Tomato Sauce or Tomato Puree: Creates a rich, thick base for the soup.
- ½ (6-ounce) can Tomato Paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the broth.
- 4 cups Chicken Broth plus 1 cup water: The liquid base of the soup, providing a flavorful broth.
Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the soup its classic Italian flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Sea Salt: Enhances the flavors of the ingredients.
- Black Pepper to taste: Adds a hint of spice to balance the soup.
Pasta Ingredient:
- 8 ounces Bowtie Pasta (uncooked): Provides the pasta element of the lasagna in soup form.
Toppings:
- ½ cup Ricotta Cheese: Adds creaminess and richness to each serving.
- 2 ounces Mozzarella Cheese, shredded (about ½ cup): Melts beautifully on top of the soup.
- ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese, shaved, shredded, or freshly grated: Adds a salty, nutty flavor.
- ¼ cup Fresh Parsley, chopped: Adds a burst of color and freshness to the final dish.
Substitutions and Variations
Cooking is an art, and Lasagna Soup is a canvas for your creativity. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:
- Ground Turkey or Italian Sausage: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. Turkey makes it lighter, while sausage adds a bit of spice.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Use crushed tomatoes instead of diced for a thicker, smoother soup.
- Gluten-Free Pasta: If you're gluten-intolerant, use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make the soup gluten-free.
- Vegan Version: Substitute the meat with plant-based ground meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Replace the cheeses with vegan alternatives.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Cooking Lasagna Soup is straightforward, but following these steps will ensure you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Step 1: Sauté the Base Ingredients
- Heat the Soup Pot: Place your soup pot over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Cook the Ground Beef, Onions, and Garlic: Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the beef is browned and fully cooked, stirring frequently to break up the meat. If there's excess fat, drain it off.
Step 2: Build the Broth
- Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Pour in the chicken broth and an additional cup of water.
- Season the Soup: Add the Italian seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- Add the Pasta: Stir in the uncooked bowtie pasta. Increase the heat to high to bring the soup to a boil.
- Simmer the Soup: Once boiling, reduce the heat to a medium simmer. Cook the soup for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked to your liking. Stir the soup every few minutes to ensure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
Step 4: Adjust the Consistency
- Adjust the Broth: If the soup is too thick, add additional water in small amounts until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Final Touches
- Remove from Heat: Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from the heat.
- Serve the Soup: Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with a dollop of ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of mozzarella, a shaving of Parmesan, and a garnish of fresh parsley.
How to Cook Lasagna Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide for Pressure Cooker
If you prefer using a pressure cooker, here's how you can adapt the recipe:
Step 1: Sauté in the Pressure Cooker
- Select “Sauté”: Turn your pressure cooker to the "Sauté" setting and heat the olive oil.
- Cook the Beef, Onions, and Garlic: Add the ground beef, diced onions, and minced garlic. Sauté until the beef is fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Deglaze and Build the Soup
- Deglaze with Broth: Add a splash of broth to the pot to deglaze and release any browned bits stuck to the bottom.
- Cancel Sauté Mode: Press "Cancel" to stop the sauté function.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chicken broth, seasonings, and uncooked pasta.
Step 3: Pressure Cook
- Seal the Cooker: Secure the lid on the pressure cooker and set the pressure release valve to "Sealing."
- Cook on High Pressure: Pressure cook on high for 1 minute. For al dente pasta, use quick pressure release. For softer pasta, allow a 10-minute natural release before opening the lid.
Step 4: Final Adjustments
- Stir and Adjust Consistency: Open the lid, stir the soup, and add water to adjust the broth consistency if needed.
- Serve: Follow the same serving instructions as above.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with a straightforward recipe, mistakes can happen. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Overcooking the Pasta: Pasta can easily become mushy if overcooked, especially in a soup. Be sure to check the pasta frequently and remove the soup from heat as soon as the pasta is tender.
- Not Draining Excess Fat: If you don’t drain excess fat after browning the beef, your soup may become greasy. Take the time to remove any excess fat for a cleaner, more flavorful broth.
- Skipping the Deglazing Step: When using a pressure cooker, don’t skip the deglazing step. It prevents burnt bits from sticking to the pot and ensures all the flavors are incorporated into the soup.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Lasagna Soup is a hearty, rustic dish that shines with simple yet thoughtful presentation. Here’s how to make it look as good as it tastes:
How to Serve Lasagna Soup
- Serve Warm: Lasagna Soup is best served piping hot. Ladle it into deep bowls to keep it warm longer.
- Toppings Are Key: Don’t skip the toppings—they add texture, flavor, and visual appeal. A dollop of ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of mozzarella, a shaving of Parmesan, and a touch of fresh parsley make all the difference.
Presentation Ideas for Lasagna Soup
- Rustic Bread Bowl: For a fun twist, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl. The bread will soak up the broth, making for a deliciously soft bite.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the soup.
- Serve with Garlic Bread: Pair your soup with a side of garlic bread for a classic Italian combination that’s sure to satisfy.
Lasagna Soup Recipe Tips
To ensure your Lasagna Soup turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality tomatoes, fresh garlic, and good cheese will elevate the flavor of your soup.
- Adjust the Broth: Remember, the pasta will continue to absorb the broth as it sits, so you may need to add more liquid when reheating leftovers.
- Make Ahead: Lasagna Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors only get better as they meld together.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make Lasagna Soup ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Lasagna Soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat it on the stove and add a bit of broth or water to adjust the consistency.
Q: Can I freeze Lasagna Soup?
A: Yes, Lasagna Soup freezes well. Store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 90 days. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: What pasta works best for Lasagna Soup?
A: Bowtie pasta, macaroni, rigatoni, or penne are great choices because they hold up well in the soup. Avoid using traditional lasagna noodles, as they tend to overcook.
Q: How can I make the soup spicier?
A: To add a kick to your Lasagna Soup, consider using Italian sausage instead of ground beef, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the broth.
Q: Can I use store-bought marinara sauce instead of tomato products?
A: Yes, you can substitute the canned tomato products with a 24-ounce jar of marinara sauce plus 1 cup of water for a similar flavor.
Conclusion
Lasagna Soup is a delightful, comforting dish that combines the best of both worlds: the hearty, rich flavors of lasagna with the convenience and warmth of a soup. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly night or making a big batch for a family gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. With the tips and variations provided, you can customize this soup to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. So, why wait? Grab your ingredients, and make this delicious Lasagna Soup today!
PrintLasagna Soup Recipe
This Lasagna Soup recipe brings together savory ground beef, tangy tomatoes, and aromatic Italian seasoning, delivering all the flavors of traditional lasagna in a cozy, hearty soup. Topped with a trio of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses, this soup is a comfort food favorite perfect for any season.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 cups 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- Base Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 pound Lean Ground Beef
- 1 large Onion, diced
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- Tomato and Broth Ingredients:
- 1 (15-ounce) can Diced Tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can Tomato Sauce or Tomato Puree
- ½ (6-ounce) can Tomato Paste
- 4 cups Chicken Broth plus 1 cup water
- Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Sea Salt
- Black Pepper to taste
- Pasta Ingredient:
- 8 ounces Bowtie Pasta (uncooked)
- Toppings:
- ½ cup Ricotta Cheese
- 2 ounces Mozzarella Cheese, shredded (about ½ cup)
- ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese, shaved, shredded, or freshly grated
- ¼ cup Fresh Parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Add diced onion and garlic, sauté until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a boil.
- Add Italian seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in uncooked bowtie pasta and cook until al dente.
- Serve hot, topped with ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, and fresh parsley.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more or less broth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
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