Best Lasagna Soup Recipe

This Best Lasagna Soup Recipe is a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, combining all the comforting flavors you love in a cozy soup form. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends and can be enjoyed by the whole family. With its cheesy goodness and hearty ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Best Lasagna Soup Recipe

This lasagna soup offers a wonderful combination of flavors and convenience.

• Quick Preparation: Ready in under an hour, making it ideal for a last-minute dinner.
• Comforting Flavor: Enjoy the rich taste of classic lasagna in a soup form that’s equally satisfying.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your choice of pasta or toppings, like mozzarella or fresh herbs.
• Healthy Option: Packed with lean beef and tomatoes, it’s nutritious without sacrificing flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will rave about this delicious meal!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Ladle
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing room for all the ingredients.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving the soup without spills, ensuring everyone gets their share.

Ingredients

This cheesy and hearty lasagna soup is loaded with the flavors of classic lasagna but is ready in under an hour! Perfect for a cozy, healthy dinner that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
1/2 cup minced onion
2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 6 garlic cloves)
28 oz 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, adjust to taste)
4 cups beef broth (low or no sodium)
2 cups water
2 cups reginetti pasta or broken lasagna noodles (about 5 oz)
1/4 cup ricotta cheese (optional, for serving)
1/4 cup parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Best Lasagna Soup Recipe

Step 1: Cook Ground Beef

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat for 3 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until browned.

Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic

Stir in the minced onion and garlic. Sauté for an additional 2–3 minutes until onions are translucent and garlic is fragrant.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasoning

Add the crushed tomatoes, bay leaf, dried herbs (basil, parsley, oregano), black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Add Broth and Water

Pour in the beef broth and water. Stir to combine, then cover the pot. Bring the soup to a boil over high heat while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Once boiling, add uncooked pasta. Stir well and reduce heat to medium. Cook uncovered for half the recommended cook time on the pasta package. The pasta will continue cooking as the soup cools.

Step 6: Finish Cooking

After cooking for half of the recommended time, remove from heat. Let sit uncovered for 5 minutes so pasta finishes cooking. Discard the bay leaf before serving.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle soup into bowls and top with ricotta cheese and parmesan if desired. Enjoy this delightful best lasagna soup!

How to Serve Best Lasagna Soup Recipe

Serving the Best Lasagna Soup is all about enhancing the flavors and creating a comforting meal experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to elevate your soup presentation.

Toppings

• Ricotta Cheese: Add a dollop of creamy ricotta on top for a rich flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan for an extra cheesy touch.
• Fresh Basil: Garnish with fresh basil leaves to add a pop of color and freshness.

Bread Pairings

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for dipping into the soup.
• Crusty Baguette: A slice of crusty baguette complements the soup’s heartiness perfectly.
• Cheesy Breadsticks: These are great for soaking up the delicious broth.

Salad Options

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs well, balancing the rich flavors of the soup.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

How to Perfect Best Lasagna Soup Recipe

To ensure your Best Lasagna Soup turns out wonderfully every time, follow these simple tips.

• Use Lean Meat: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier while still flavorful.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Undercook your pasta slightly, as it will continue to cook in the residual heat of the soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt or spices according to your preference.
• Experiment with Pasta Shapes: Try different pasta shapes like penne or shells for a fun twist on the classic recipe.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes before serving enhances its flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Best Lasagna Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Best Lasagna Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic and herbs, perfect for dipping.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a refreshing side.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs offer a tasty bite alongside your soup.
4. Antipasto Platter: A mix of meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables provides variety and flavor.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition that complement the soup nicely.
6. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad dressed with vinaigrette is a great way to use up leftovers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Best Lasagna Soup Recipe, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the pasta for too long will make it mushy. Always slightly undercook it, as it will continue to absorb liquid while resting.

• Ignoring Seasoning: Skipping or not adjusting spices may lead to bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning to your preference.

• Using High-Sodium Ingredients: Using regular broth or canned tomatoes can add too much sodium. Opt for low or no sodium versions for a healthier dish.

• Not Discarding the Bay Leaf: Forgetting to remove the bay leaf before serving can leave an unpleasant taste. Always remember to take it out!

• Skipping Toppings: Missing out on ricotta or parmesan cheese takes away from the creamy finish. Don’t skip the toppings for added flavor!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers.
• Consume within 3–4 days for best flavor and quality.

Freezing Instructions

• Cool the soup completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
• Enjoy within 2–3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Best Lasagna Soup Recipe:

Can I substitute ground beef with another meat?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based proteins for a lighter version of this lasagna soup.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version of the Best Lasagna Soup Recipe, replace meat with veggies like mushrooms or zucchini and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spinach, bell peppers, or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes! The lasagna soup stores well and tastes even better after sitting. It’s perfect for meal prepping.

What type of pasta works best?

Reginetti pasta is ideal, but you can use broken lasagna noodles or any favorite pasta shape you have on hand.

Final Thoughts

The Best Lasagna Soup Recipe offers all the comforting flavors of classic lasagna in a cozy bowl of soup. Its versatility allows you to customize with various ingredients and toppings. Don’t hesitate to try it out; your family will love it!