Lasagna Soup

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound Italian sausage (you can use mild or spicy, or swap with ground beef or turkey)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 ounces lasagna noodles (broken into pieces)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for a creamier texture)

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (or use cottage cheese as a substitute)
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Lasagna Soup

Making Lasagna Soup is simple and straightforward. Here’s how to prepare this comforting dish in just a few easy steps:

1. Cook the Sausage and Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Once the sausage is cooked, remove any excess grease from the pot.

Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot with the sausage and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent.

2. Add the Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (with juices), and chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Add the dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

3. Add the Lasagna Noodles

Break the lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and add them to the pot. Stir to combine and ensure the noodles are submerged in the broth. Continue to simmer for another 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and cooked through. If you prefer a creamier soup, you can stir in the heavy cream at this point to add richness and depth.

4. Prepare the Cheese Topping

While the soup is simmering, prepare the cheese topping. In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and shredded mozzarella. This will mimic the cheesy layers of a traditional lasagna and add a creamy finish to your soup.

5. Serve the Soup

Once the noodles are cooked and the soup is well-seasoned, ladle the soup into bowls. Spoon a generous dollop of the ricotta and mozzarella mixture on top of each bowl. For extra flavor, sprinkle with fresh chopped basil or parsley.

Serve the Lasagna Soup hot, and enjoy the comforting, savory flavors with every bite.

Tips and Variations

• Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian twist, skip the sausage and use more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. You can add extra beans for protein or use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you prefer a leaner option, swap out the Italian sausage for ground turkey or chicken. You can still use all the same seasonings for a delicious, healthier version of the soup.
• Add Extra Vegetables: Feel free to add in more veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach. These can easily be incorporated into the soup to increase the nutrition and flavor.
• Cheese Variations: You can customize the cheese topping by adding parmesan cheese or substituting ricotta with cream cheese or mascarpone for a different texture.

Why Lasagna Soup is Perfect for Any Occasion

Lasagna Soup is a fantastic dish for so many reasons. It’s perfect for chilly days when you need something warm and hearty. It also makes for great leftovers, as the flavors continue to develop after a day or two in the fridge. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means cleanup is a breeze!

This dish is also a crowd-pleaser—whether you’re feeding a family, serving guests, or meal prepping for the week, Lasagna Soup is easy to make in large quantities and is sure to satisfy everyone’s appetite. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s both comforting and delicious.

Conclusion

Lasagna Soup is the ultimate comfort food in a bowl, combining the flavors of a classic lasagna with the ease of a soup. It’s rich, savory, and oh-so-satisfying, making it the perfect dish for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or any time you crave a warm, hearty meal. With its simple ingredients, quick cooking time, and endless variations, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household. So grab a pot, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the flavors of lasagna in a whole new way!