Lasagna is a beloved dish known for its rich flavors and comforting layers of pasta, cheese, and sauce. However, if you’re in the mood for something a bit different yet equally delicious, Lasagna Soup is the perfect choice. This hearty soup captures all the delightful elements of traditional lasagna while offering a unique twist that’s easy to prepare and enjoy. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or at a warm family gathering, this dish will surely please everyone at the table.
Why We Love This Lasagna Soup Recipe
There’s something incredibly satisfying about slurping up a bowl of Lasagna Soup. It’s a hearty dish that combines the classic flavors of lasagna in a comforting soup format. You get the tender noodles, the savory meat, and the delightful blend of herbs that make lasagna a fan favorite. What’s more, this recipe is versatile, allowing you to tweak it to your tastes with various ingredients.
Lasagna Soup is perfect for busy weeknights and can even be made ahead of time. Whether you choose to make it on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, it promises a burst of flavor in every single bite. Plus, the added indulgence of ricotta and mozzarella cheese on top makes it feel just as luxurious as the traditional layered version.
Now, let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this scrumptious meal.
Ingredients for Lasagna Soup
To make a delightful bowl of Lasagna Soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 pound mild Italian sausage, casings removed
- 32 ounces chicken stock
- 30 ounces petite diced tomatoes with juice
- 6 ounces tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2-3 Tablespoons freshly chopped basil
- 8 uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Kosher salt & pepper to taste
- Ricotta cheese for serving
These ingredients come together beautifully to create a robust and flavorful soup that will warm your heart.
How to Make Lasagna Soup
Creating this delicious soup is a straightforward process. Follow these simple directions to bring your Lasagna Soup to life.
- Prepare Your Base: Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion. Cook it for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Introduce the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute, allowing the aroma to fill your kitchen.
- Cook the Sausage: Next, add the Italian sausage to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it up and cook until it’s nicely browned. Make sure to drain any excess grease to keep your soup light.
- Combine the Liquids: Once the sausage is cooked, pour in the chicken stock, diced tomatoes with their juice, and tomato paste. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Add Seasonings: Now, sprinkle in the ground oregano and Italian seasoning. Add the freshly chopped basil as well, allowing the flavors to meld together. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Cook the Noodles: Once the soup is boiling, it’s time to add the broken lasagna noodles. Cook these for about 8-10 minutes or until they’re tender but still have a slight bite to them.
- Finish with Cheese: After the noodles are cooked, stir in the grated parmesan cheese and, if desired, the shredded mozzarella cheese. Season generously with kosher salt and pepper to your taste.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with a generous spoonful of ricotta cheese and additional fresh basil if you wish.
If you’re looking for a crockpot version, simply brown the sausage and cook the onions ahead of time. Combine all ingredients except the noodles and cheese in the crockpot. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the noodles in the last 15-20 minutes and stir in the cheese right before you serve!
How to Serve Lasagna Soup
When it comes to serving Lasagna Soup, you have a lovely opportunity to customize each bowl. Besides topping it with ricotta, you might consider serving it with crusty bread on the side for dipping or a light salad to complement the meal.
Each bowl of this soup can be garnished with a sprinkle of additional fresh basil or even a dash of red pepper flakes for some added heat. Pair your soup with a refreshing drink like iced tea or sparkling water to balance the rich flavors.
Lasagna Soup is perfect for your family dinner or festive gatherings, bringing warmth and a sense of togetherness as everyone enjoys this comforting dish.
Expert Tips for Lasagna Soup
- Customize Your Protein: While this recipe calls for mild Italian sausage, feel free to swap it out for ground beef or turkey. You could also go meatless by using lentils or mushrooms.
- Experiment with Noodles: Lasagna noodles are traditional, but you can experiment with other pasta types like fusilli or even gluten-free alternatives if desired.
- Add More Vegetables: For an extra nutritional boost, consider adding diced zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to the mix. They add color and flavor without overwhelming the classic taste.
- Richness with Cheese: While mozzarella and ricotta are typical, you can also try using provolone or even a sprinkle of feta for a unique flavor twist.
- Spice it Up: If you like your soup spicier, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the pot while cooking.
- Slow Cooker Adaptation: Follow the steps for stovetop cooking, but remember to adjust the cooking time if you’re using a slow cooker. It can have a different texture and flavor, so aim for a delightful and slow simmer.
How to Store Lasagna Soup
If you find yourself with leftover Lasagna Soup, storing it properly ensures that you can enjoy it later. Simply transfer the soup to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days.
To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to bring back its original consistency. If you plan to freeze it, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. In the freezer, it can last up to 2-3 months.
Variations of Lasagna Soup
A hallmark of Lasagna Soup is its flexibility. Here are some delicious variations you might want to try:
- Vegetarian Lasagna Soup: Omit the meat and substitute with your choice of hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or even lentils for added protein.
- Cheesy White Lasagna Soup: Swap out the tomato base for a creamy white sauce by using a combination of cream, chicken stock, and your favorite white cheeses.
- Spicy Kick: Add spicy Italian sausage and toss in jalapeños or diced green chiles for a fiery version that will pique your taste buds.
- Herb Bomb: Load the soup with fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or even sage to enhance the aroma and flavor profile.
- Seafood Variation: For something different, use shrimp or even crab in place of sausage for a seafood twist on this classic recipe.
FAQs About Lasagna Soup
Can I use a different type of meat in Lasagna Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute mild Italian sausage with ground turkey, chicken, or even beef. Each will add its unique flavor to the soup.
Can I prep Lasagna Soup ahead of time?
Certainly! You can prepare the entire soup a day in advance. Just reheat on the stovetop and add your pasta shortly before serving for the best texture.
How do I prevent the noodles from getting mushy?
To maintain the perfect texture, try undercooking the noodles slightly. They will continue to cook once combined with the hot soup.
Is it possible to make this soup spicier?
Yes! Adding crushed red pepper flakes or using spicy sausage can elevate the heat level to suit your taste.
What can I serve with Lasagna Soup?
Serve it with crusty bread for dipping or a light side salad for a refreshing contrast.
Lasagna Soup
Ingredients
Soup Base Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 pound mild Italian sausage, casings removed
- 32 ounces chicken stock
- 30 ounces petite diced tomatoes with juice
- 6 ounces tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2-3 Tablespoons freshly chopped basil
- 8 uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Kosher salt & pepper to taste
- Ricotta cheese for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute.
- Add the Italian sausage to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
- Pour in the chicken stock, diced tomatoes with juice, and tomato paste. Stir until well combined.
- Sprinkle in the ground oregano, Italian seasoning, and freshly chopped basil. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Add the broken lasagna noodles and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until tender but still slightly firm.
- Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and, if using, the shredded mozzarella cheese. Season with kosher salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a spoonful of ricotta cheese and additional fresh basil if desired.
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