Description
Lasagna Soup
Get all the comfort of lasagna without the hassle! This hearty lasagna soup is the perfect weeknight dinner for the whole family—packed with rich tomato sauce, tender bowtie pasta, juicy ground beef, and a cheesy topping to satisfy all your cravings. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this one-pot wonder makes cleanup a breeze and guarantees a delicious meal that tastes even better the next day!
1-2 tbsp Olive Oil
1 lb Ground Beef
1 large Onion, diced
4 cloves Garlic, minced
1 (15 oz) can Diced Tomatoes
1 (15 oz) can Tomato Sauce
3 oz Tomato Paste
4 cups Chicken Broth
1-2 cups Water
1 tbsp Italian Seasoning
1 tsp Sea Salt
Black Pepper, to taste
8 oz Bowtie Pasta
½ cup Ricotta Cheese
2 oz Mozzarella Cheese, shredded
¼ cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
¼ cup Fresh Parsley, chopped
Directions:
1. Sauté beef, onions, and garlic until cooked. Drain fat.
2. Stir in tomatoes, sauce, paste, broth, seasonings, and pasta.
3. Bring to boil, simmer for 10-15 mins until pasta is tender.
4. Top with cheese and parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Kcal: 195 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect lasagna soup every time. First, in a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until the meat is browned and the onions are soft, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Next, add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste to the pot. Stir well to combine and cook for 2 minutes to let the flavors meld. Pour in the chicken broth and 1 cup of water. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in the bowtie pasta.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally. If the soup becomes too thick, add the remaining cup of water as needed. While the soup simmers, prepare the cheese topping by combining the ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan in a small bowl.
Once the pasta is tender, remove the pot from the heat. Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top each serving with a generous dollop of the cheese mixture and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette and a slice of warm, crusty garlic bread for dipping. For a lighter option, serve with steamed green beans or roasted broccoli.
How-to Summary
Brown beef with onions and garlic. Add all tomato products, broth, seasonings, and pasta. Simmer until pasta is cooked. Serve topped with a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, and fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes. While bowties (farfalle) work well, any short pasta like rotini, shells, or even broken lasagna noodles are excellent substitutes. Adjust cooking time according to package directions.
How can I make this soup vegetarian? Simply omit the ground beef and use a plant-based ground “meat” alternative. You can also add diced zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra heartiness.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water as the pasta will continue to absorb liquid.
Can I freeze this lasagna soup? You can, but note that the pasta may become mushy upon thawing. For best results, freeze the soup base without the pasta and cheese topping. Cook fresh pasta when ready to serve.
Is there a way to make it less acidic? To balance the tomatoes, add a pinch of sugar or a tablespoon of grated carrot while cooking. A splash of whole milk or cream stirred in at the end can also mellow the acidity.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it will continue to soften in the hot soup. Aim for al dente. Do not skip draining the fat from the cooked beef, as it can make the soup greasy. Finally, resist the urge to add all the cheese directly into the pot; the creamy, cool topping provides essential contrast and texture.
Conclusion
This lasagna soup truly delivers all the beloved flavors of the classic baked dish in a fraction of the time and with minimal cleanup. It’s a versatile, family-friendly recipe that is sure to become a regular in your weekly rotation. Comforting, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying, it’s the perfect solution for a busy night when you crave something special.