If you’ve ever wanted the comforting, rich flavors of lasagna but didn’t have the time or energy to layer it all together, then lasagna soup is the answer to your cravings! This recipe combines everything you love about traditional lasagna—hearty meat, savory sauce, gooey cheese—but in a fraction of the time and with way less effort. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal-prepping for the week, this soup is the ultimate cozy dinner that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Lasagna Soup
The beauty of lasagna soup lies in its simplicity. Most of the ingredients are probably sitting in your pantry or fridge already!
- Ground Beef or Italian sausage
- Onion and Garlic – Your flavor foundation!
- Crushed Tomatoes – This soup’s heart and soul.
- Chicken or Beef Broth – Adds depth to the soup base.
- Lasagna Noodles – Broken into pieces for a fun twist.
- Mozzarella, Parmesan, Ricotta – The holy trinity of cheese.
- Italian Seasoning, Salt, and Pepper – Flavors that pack a punch.
- Optional: Red pepper flakes, fresh herbs like basil or parsley.
Bursting with rich Italian flavors, this soup tastes like it simmered all day, but can be ready in just about an hour!
Step-by-Step: How to Make Lasagna Soup
Ready to transform a classic Italian dish into a one-pot wonder? Let’s get started on this easy lasagna soup!
- Brown the Meat
Start by cooking your ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat and remove from the pot. - Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until fragrant and softened, about 3 minutes. - Add the Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in your crushed tomatoes, chicken or beef broth, and cooked ground meat. Stir well and let the flavors meld together. - Break the Lasagna Noodles
Toss in broken lasagna noodles (no need to boil separately). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The soup should simmer until the noodles are tender. - Add Cheese
In the last few minutes of cooking, stir in shredded mozzarella and a hefty sprinkle of Parmesan. The result? Cheesy, melty goodness in every bite. - Top with Ricotta
Ladle the soup into bowls, then top each serving with a dollop of ricotta and a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for that classic lasagna vibe.
Secret Tip: Keep Your Noodles from Overcooking!
To avoid mushy noodles, cook the soup until the noodles are just al dente. If you plan to freeze leftovers, consider cooking the noodles separately and adding them when reheating.
Meat Options for Lasagna Soup
While ground beef is the classic choice, you can experiment with different meats. Italian sausage adds a spicy kick, while ground turkey makes a lighter option. If you’re vegetarian, go with hearty mushrooms or plant-based crumbles. The choice is yours, and each option keeps the rich flavor of the lasagna soup intact!
Best Cheeses for Lasagna Soup
It’s no secret: the cheese in this soup is everything. Let’s break down what each cheese brings to the party:
- Mozzarella: Melts beautifully into the soup for that stringy cheese pull we all love.
- Parmesan: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor.
- Ricotta: The crown jewel of lasagna! Creamy and rich, this cheese gives each bite a luxurious finish.
Want to go the extra mile? Mix some ricotta with fresh herbs and a pinch of salt for an even more flavorful topping.
Creamy Lasagna Soup: Add a Twist!
For those days when you’re craving a richer, creamier soup, you can easily turn this into creamy lasagna soup. Just stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end. You’ll get a velvety texture that adds a little extra indulgence to each spoonful.
Lasagna Soup vs. Traditional Lasagna: What’s Better?
Sure, lasagna soup isn’t the same as layers of baked noodles, but it has plenty of its own perks:
| Traditional Lasagna | Lasagna Soup |
|---|---|
| Takes hours to prepare | Ready in under an hour |
| Multiple steps & layers | One-pot simplicity |
| Baked in the oven | Cooked on the stove |
| Great for special occasions | Perfect for weeknight dinners |
For those nights when you don’t have time to craft a full lasagna, this soup is the next best thing. It’s got all the flavors you love but with much less fuss!
Storing and Freezing Lasagna Soup
Planning for leftovers? Lasagna soup is even better the next day! Here’s how to store it:
- In the Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a little extra broth if needed.
- In the Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Be sure to undercook the noodles slightly before freezing. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
Can You Make Lasagna Soup in the Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! To make slow cooker lasagna soup, brown the meat and sauté the onions and garlic first. Then, transfer everything to the slow cooker, except for the noodles and cheese. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. In the last 30 minutes, stir in the noodles and top with cheese just before serving.
Instant Pot Lasagna Soup: A Speedy Option
Looking for an even faster method? The Instant Pot is your best friend.
- Use the sauté function to brown the meat and soften the onions.
- Add the rest of the ingredients (except the noodles and cheese) and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
- Quick-release the pressure, toss in the noodles, and let them cook on the sauté function until tender. Add the cheese, and you’re ready to serve!
How to Customize Your Soup
One of the best things about lasagna soup is its versatility. You can tailor it to your taste with a few simple swaps:
- Vegetarian Lasagna Soup: Ditch the meat and load up on veggies like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms.
- Gluten-Free Lasagna Soup: Use gluten-free noodles or substitute pasta entirely with a low-carb option like zucchini noodles.
- Spicy Lasagna Soup: Add crushed red pepper flakes or spicy sausage to turn up the heat.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Lasagna Soup
This hearty soup is practically a meal on its own, but you can pair it with some delicious sides to round out dinner:
- Garlic Bread: Because carbs and carbs just work together.
- Caesar Salad: A fresh, crisp side that cuts through the richness of the soup.
- Grilled Vegetables: Add some roasted veggies to balance the meal.
Common Lasagna Soup Mistakes to Avoid
Even though this soup is easy to make, a few common mistakes can trip you up. Here’s how to avoid them:
- Overcooking the Noodles: As mentioned, keep an eye on the noodles to avoid them turning mushy.
- Too Little Seasoning: Taste as you go! Soup needs more seasoning than you think, so don’t be afraid to add salt and pepper.
- Too Thick or Too Thin: If your soup is too thick, add more broth. Too thin? Let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.
Family-Friendly Lasagna Soup Tips
Got picky eaters? No problem. This soup can be easily adjusted to please everyone at the table:
- Less spice: Skip the red pepper flakes or spicy sausage for kids who prefer milder flavors.
- More cheese: Because who’s ever said no to more cheese?
Garnishes to Take Your Soup to the Next Level
Once your soup is ladled into bowls, don’t forget the toppings! A handful of fresh basil, grated Parmesan, or a drizzle of olive oil can elevate this simple dish to something truly special.
FAQs: Answering Your Lasagna Soup Questions
Here are some of the most common questions people have about lasagna soup, with tips and tricks to ensure you get it just right!
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While lasagna noodles give this dish its signature texture, you can substitute other pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or bow-tie pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly—smaller shapes cook faster!
How long does lasagna soup last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, lasagna soup will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. To reheat, warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.
Can I freeze lasagna soup?
Yes, this soup freezes beautifully! The key is to undercook the noodles slightly so they don’t become mushy when reheated. Store the soup in individual portions in airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stove.
How do I make it spicier?
If you like your lasagna soup with a bit more heat, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage in place of ground beef. Another option is to stir in a spoonful of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper when you’re simmering the soup.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Definitely! To make lasagna soup in the slow cooker, brown the meat and sauté the onions and garlic first. Then, transfer everything (except the noodles and cheese) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. In the last 30 minutes, stir in the noodles and finish with cheese just before serving.
With these tips, tricks, and tasty additions, you’re all set to make a hearty, flavorful lasagna soup that everyone will love! Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or prepping it ahead for a busy week, this recipe will deliver all the comforting flavors of lasagna in a fun, slurpable form.
If you’re loving this lasagna soup, you’ll definitely want to try more comforting bowls of goodness! For a classic option, check out this Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe—it’s a timeless favorite that’s perfect for soothing the soul. Or, if you’re in the mood for something rich and hearty, the Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a must-try. It’s creamy, savory, and packed with flavor, making it an easy go-to for busy weeknights!