Lasagna Soup is a cozy, delicious twist on the classic Italian dish that brings all the flavors of lasagna into a hearty, comforting bowl. It’s packed with ground meat, tender noodles, flavorful tomato broth, and plenty of cheesy goodness that reminds you exactly why lasagna is so loved. The melted cheese on top and the fresh herbs make each bite warm and inviting.
I love making lasagna soup when I want something that feels like a big, comforting hug in a bowl but without all the fuss of layering noodles and baking. It comes together pretty quickly, and the best part is you get all the delicious flavors in a way that’s perfect for cooler days when you need something filling and satisfying. I always add a little extra garlic and sprinkle a handful of fresh basil right before serving—that little fresh kick makes a big difference!
My favorite way to enjoy lasagna soup is with some crusty bread on the side to dip right into all that cheesy, tomato goodness. It always feels like a fun, casual meal that’s great for sharing with family or friends. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day, so it’s a winner for a cozy lunch or dinner. Honestly, this soup makes lasagna feel lighter and just as comforting, which is a win in my book!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions for Lasagna Soup
Ground beef: This adds rich flavor and heartiness. You can swap it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian take, try cooked mushrooms or lentils instead.
Lasagna noodles: Breaking them into smaller pieces makes them easier to eat in soup form. If you prefer, use broken spaghetti or other pasta shapes you have on hand.
Ricotta cheese: Adds creamy texture and mild flavor. If unavailable, plain cottage cheese or cream cheese work well too.
Tomatoes & broth: Canned diced tomatoes and tomato sauce build the base. You can choose low-sodium broth or vegetable broth for different dietary needs.
How Do You Get the Perfect Flavor and Texture in Lasagna Soup?
Building good flavor starts by properly browning the meat and softening the onions. This creates a savory base that makes the soup taste hearty. Cook the garlic just until fragrant, not burnt.
- Brown ground beef over medium heat, stirring to break it apart; drain excess fat for a cleaner taste.
- Sauté onions until soft but not browned for sweetness without bitterness.
- Add garlic last; cook 1 minute until fragrant to avoid burning.
- Simmer the soup after adding tomatoes and broth to meld the flavors well.
- Break lasagna noodles into smaller pieces so they cook evenly and fit nicely in a spoon.
- Add noodles late to avoid overcooking and turning mushy.
Top with dollops of ricotta and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan on hot soup to slightly melt the cheese for a cozy finish. Fresh herbs and a pinch of red pepper flakes add extra brightness and a bit of heat if you like.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large Dutch oven or heavy pot – perfect for browning meat and simmering the soup all in one pot.
- Wooden spoon – great for stirring and breaking up ground beef without scratching your pot.
- Chef’s knife – helps you easily dice onions and mince garlic.
- Cutting board – a stable surface to prep your vegetables safely.
- Ladle – makes serving the soup into bowls quick and clean.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for Italian sausage for a spicier and more flavorful soup.
- Add chopped spinach or kale towards the end for extra color, nutrients, and freshness.
- Use gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free meal option.
- Stir in some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce if you like a little heat.
How to Make Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty lasagna soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook. So in less than 40 minutes, you’ll have a warm, comforting bowl ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef and Cook Onions:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any extra fat if you want. Then add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft.
2. Add Garlic and Liquids:
Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until you smell the garlic. Then pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes with their juices, and the tomato sauce. Stir everything together.
3. Season and Simmer:
Season the soup with dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for around 15 minutes so the flavors blend nicely.
4. Cook the Noodles:
Add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Keep simmering until the noodles are tender, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
5. Serve with Cheese and Herbs:
Once the noodles are done, taste your soup and add more salt or pepper if you like. Serve the soup hot with a big spoonful of ricotta cheese on top, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over it. Finish by garnishing with chopped parsley or basil. For a little kick, add some red pepper flakes if you like heat.
6. Enjoy!
Pair your lasagna soup with some crusty bread for dipping. It’s a cozy, delicious meal that’s quick and easy to make.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for Lasagna Soup?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the ground beef in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave before cooking. This helps it brown evenly without releasing too much water into the soup.
Can I Substitute Other Pasta for Lasagna Noodles?
Absolutely! Broken lasagna noodles are traditional, but you can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, rigatoni, or broken spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Lasagna Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. The noodles may absorb more broth over time, so you might want to add a splash of broth or water when reheating.
Can I Make Lasagna Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the soup up to the point before adding the noodles, then refrigerate. When ready to eat, reheat the soup and cook the noodles fresh to keep them from getting mushy.