Comforting Lasagna Soup Dish

This hearty lasagna soup has quickly become my go-to recipe for busy weeknights when we crave Italian comfort food without the lengthy preparation. It delivers all the rich, satisfying flavors of traditional lasagna in a cozy bowl that's perfect for any season.

I first created this soup during a particularly cold winter when my family was craving lasagna but I didn't have time for all the assembly. Now it's requested at least twice a month, and I always make extra for lunches throughout the week.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: gives this soup its hearty texture and savory foundation. Look for 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for the best flavor
• Onion and garlic: form the aromatic base that builds depth in every spoonful
• Diced tomatoes: provide texture and bright acidity. Choose fire-roasted for extra flavor
• Tomato sauce and paste: create that rich, concentrated tomato flavor essential to authentic lasagna
• Chicken broth: adds savory depth while creating the perfect soup consistency
• Bowtie pasta: holds up beautifully in soup and mimics the ruffly edges of lasagna noodles
• Italian seasoning: delivers all the classic herbs in one convenient blend
• Cheese trifecta: ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan recreate that authentic layered lasagna experience

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the meat and aromatics:

Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic, sautéing for about 7-8 minutes until the beef is nicely browned with no pink remaining. This foundational step builds incredible flavor, so take your time and break up any large chunks of meat with your spoon.

Build the broth base:

Add your tomato products including diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Stir thoroughly to incorporate the tomato paste, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot these contain concentrated flavor. Pour in the chicken broth and season with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. This creates the rich, flavorful base that makes this soup so special.

Add pasta and simmer:

Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce to a medium simmer. Add the pasta directly to the pot no need to cook it separately and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb the delicious flavors as it cooks, taking about 10-15 minutes to reach perfect tenderness.

Adjust consistency:

Once pasta is tender, assess your soup's thickness. If it seems too thick, add water or additional broth in small increments until you reach your desired consistency. Remember the soup will continue to thicken as it stands, especially if you have leftovers.

Add cheese and serve:

For individual servings, ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with dollops of creamy ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and a generous sprinkle of parmesan. Alternatively, you can stir the cheeses directly into the pot after it's cooled slightly for a creamier overall texture. Finish with fresh parsley for color and a bright herbal note.

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The secret ingredient that makes this soup exceptional is definitely the tomato paste. Those three concentrated ounces transform an ordinary tomato soup into something that truly captures the essence of slow-simmered lasagna sauce. I never skip it, even when I'm tempted to simplify the recipe further.

Make It Your Own

This soup welcomes customization based on your family's preferences. You can add spinach or zucchini in the last few minutes of cooking for extra vegetables, or swap ground beef for Italian sausage for a spicier flavor profile. Some of my friends even add a splash of heavy cream at the end for an extra indulgent touch or stir in a few handfuls of fresh spinach for added nutrition.

Storage Solutions

The pasta in this soup will continue absorbing liquid as it sits, so leftovers will be thicker than when first made. When refrigerating, store in airtight containers for up to 5 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to return it to soup consistency. For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. The pasta texture may change slightly upon thawing, but the flavor remains delicious.

Serving Suggestions

This soup really shines when served with crusty garlic bread for dipping. A simple side salad with Italian dressing completes the meal perfectly. For entertaining, set up a topping bar with different cheeses, fresh herbs, and red pepper flakes so guests can customize their bowls. This interactive approach always gets rave reviews at casual dinner parties.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute bowtie pasta with macaroni, rigatoni, penne, or another sturdy pasta. Avoid lasagna sheets as they may break down over time.

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely. Lasagna soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 90 days. Reheat with added broth to adjust consistency.

→ What protein options can I use?

Ground beef is traditional, but you can substitute it with ground turkey, Italian sausage, or even a plant-based alternative if preferred.

→ What toppings pair well with lasagna soup?

Ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and fresh parsley are classic choices. You can also customize with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flavor.

→ How do I achieve the desired soup consistency?

Add water or broth gradually while cooking or reheating to adjust the thickness of the soup based on your preference.

→ Can I use a pressure cooker for this recipe?

Yes, a pressure cooker offers a quick and efficient option. Sauté the ingredients, then cook on high pressure for 1 minute, adjusting for desired pasta texture.