Best Lasagna Soup Recipe

Lasagna soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines the rich, cheesy flavors of traditional lasagna with the ease of a hearty soup. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something warm and satisfying but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. With its ground beef, crushed tomatoes, and Italian herbs, this soup delivers all the classic lasagna flavors in a bowl. The addition of ricotta and parmesan cheese toppings makes it even more indulgent. Whether you’re cooking on the stovetop, in an Instant Pot, or using a Crockpot, this recipe is versatile and foolproof. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will have your family asking for seconds!

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the recipe, it’s essential to gather all the necessary tools and ingredients. Proper preparation ensures a smooth cooking process and a delicious outcome.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven (for stovetop cooking)
• Instant Pot or Crockpot (for hands-off cooking)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chef’s knife and cutting board (for mincing onions and garlic)
• Ladle (for serving)

Importance of Each Tool
A large pot or Dutch oven is ideal for even heat distribution, preventing the soup from burning. An Instant Pot or Crockpot saves time and effort, making it perfect for busy cooks. A wooden spoon helps stir ingredients without scratching your cookware. Measuring tools ensure accuracy, especially for spices and liquids. A sharp chef’s knife makes prep work quick and efficient.

Preparation Tips

• Mince the onions and garlic ahead of time to save effort during cooking.
• Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease in the soup.
• Opt for low-sodium beef broth and crushed tomatoes to control the saltiness.
• Break lasagna noodles into smaller pieces for easier eating.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to make the best lasagna soup recipe:

For the Soup:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
• 1/2 cup minced onion
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 6 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)

For Serving (Optional):

• 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Stovetop Instructions

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat for 3 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned.
• Stir in the minced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until onions are translucent and garlic is fragrant.
• Pour in the crushed tomatoes, bay leaf, dried herbs (basil, parsley, oregano), black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well.
• Add the beef broth and water. Stir to combine, then cover the pot and bring the soup to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally.
• Once boiling, add the uncooked pasta. Stir and reduce the heat to medium. Cook uncovered for half the recommended cook time on the pasta package (e.g., if the box says 10 minutes, cook for 5 minutes). The pasta will continue cooking as the soup cools.
• After the pasta has cooked for half the recommended time, remove the pot from the heat. Let the soup sit uncovered for 5 minutes so the pasta finishes cooking. Discard the bay leaf.
• Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a dollop of ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of parmesan, if desired. Enjoy!

Instant Pot Instructions

• Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode for 13 minutes. Heat the olive oil and brown the ground beef for 10 minutes. Add onion and garlic, and sauté for 2–3 more minutes.
• Scrape the bottom of the pot to avoid a burn notice. Stir in the tomatoes, spices, broth, and water.
• Add the pasta, ensuring it’s submerged but not touching the bottom. Cover, seal, and cook on High Pressure for 2 minutes.
• Quick release the pressure once done. Discard the bay leaf and serve with toppings.

Crockpot Instructions

• Brown the ground beef in a skillet. Add onion and garlic and sauté until translucent. Transfer to the Crockpot.
• Add tomatoes, spices, broth, and water to the Crockpot. Stir to combine. Cook on Low for 6–8 hours or High for 3–4 hours.
• During the last hour of cooking, add the pasta and cook until just tender. Alternatively, cook pasta separately and add it to the soup before serving.
• Discard the bay leaf and serve with parmesan and ricotta.

Lasagna soup is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your preferences. Here are some serving ideas to elevate your meal:

• Cheese Toppings: Add a dollop of ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of parmesan to each bowl for a creamy, cheesy finish.
• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley to add a burst of color and freshness.
• Bread Pairings: Serve with garlic bread, crusty Italian bread, or warm dinner rolls for dipping into the flavorful broth.
• Extra Heat: For those who enjoy a bit of spice, offer red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil on the side.
• Vegetable Boost: Add a handful of fresh spinach or kale to the soup just before serving for an extra dose of greens.

These serving suggestions not only enhance the flavor but also make the meal more visually appealing and satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Even the simplest recipes can go awry if certain steps are overlooked. Here are some common mistakes and tips to ensure your lasagna soup turns out perfectly every time:

Overcooking the Pasta
One of the most frequent mistakes is overcooking the pasta, which can make it mushy and unappetizing. To avoid this, cook the pasta for only half the recommended time on the package. The residual heat from the soup will finish cooking the noodles to the perfect al dente texture.

Skipping the Sauté Step
Sautéing the onions and garlic is crucial for building a flavorful base. Rushing this step or skipping it altogether can result in a bland soup. Take the time to cook the onions until they’re translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

Using High-Sodium Ingredients
Many store-bought broths and canned tomatoes contain high levels of sodium, which can overpower the dish. Opt for low-sodium beef broth and crushed tomatoes to control the saltiness. You can always adjust the seasoning at the end.

Not Adjusting Spice Levels
The red pepper flakes add a subtle kick, but not everyone enjoys spicy food. Taste the soup before serving and adjust the spice level to your preference. You can also omit the flakes entirely if desired.

Adding Pasta Too Early in Slow Cookers
If you’re using a Crockpot, avoid adding the pasta at the beginning. Cook the pasta separately or add it during the last hour of cooking to prevent it from becoming overly soft.

Ignoring the Bay Leaf
The bay leaf adds a subtle depth of flavor, but it’s not meant to be eaten. Remember to remove it before serving to avoid an unpleasant texture.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a lasagna soup that’s flavorful, hearty, and perfectly balanced.

Side Dish Recommendations

Pairing your lasagna soup with the right side dishes can turn it into a complete and satisfying meal. Here are eight side dish ideas that complement the flavors of the soup:

1. Garlic Bread
A classic pairing, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the rich, tomato-based broth.

2. Caesar Salad
The crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing of a Caesar salad provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli add a healthy and colorful touch to your meal.

4. Caprese Salad
Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a light and elegant side.

5. Grilled Zucchini
Seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, grilled zucchini is a simple yet flavorful accompaniment.

6. Bruschetta
Toasted bread topped with a mixture of diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic is a delightful appetizer or side.

7. Antipasto Platter
A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables adds variety and sophistication to your meal.

8. Focaccia Bread
Soft, herb-infused focaccia is perfect for tearing and dipping into the soup.

These side dishes not only enhance the dining experience but also provide a balanced meal with a mix of textures and flavors.

To ensure your lasagna soup turns out perfectly every time, here are some additional tips and tricks:

Avoid Overcooking Pasta
Slightly undercook the pasta, as it will continue to absorb liquid and soften after the soup is removed from heat. This ensures the noodles maintain a pleasant texture.

Adjust Broth Consistency
If you prefer a thinner soup, add extra broth or water during the cooking process. Conversely, if the soup thickens too much as it sits, a splash of broth can restore the desired consistency.

Pasta Options
While broken lasagna noodles provide an authentic feel, you can substitute them with reginetti, penne, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Spice Level Customization
The red pepper flakes add a subtle heat, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste. For a milder version, reduce or omit the flakes entirely.

Ricotta Substitute
If you don’t have ricotta cheese on hand, cottage cheese or shredded mozzarella makes a great alternative. Both options add a creamy, cheesy element to the soup.

Fresh Herbs
While dried herbs work well in this recipe, fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or oregano can elevate the flavor. Use double the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.

Make It Vegetarian
For a meatless version, replace the ground beef with lentils, plant-based ground meat, or extra vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.

These tips allow you to customize the recipe to your preferences while ensuring a delicious outcome.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Lasagna soup is a great make-ahead meal, and leftovers taste even better the next day. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

Refrigeration

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the soup (without pasta) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Cook fresh pasta separately and add it to the soup when reheating to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Reheating

• To reheat on the stovetop, place the soup in a pot over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened.
• For the microwave, transfer the soup to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.

Proper storage and reheating ensure your lasagna soup retains its flavor and texture, making it a convenient option for busy days.

FAQs

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about lasagna soup:

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or shredded mozzarella. Both options provide a creamy, cheesy texture.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with lentils, plant-based ground meat, or extra vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the pasta separately and add it to individual servings just before eating. Alternatively, slightly undercook the pasta in the soup and let it finish cooking off the heat.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, but double the amount since fresh herbs are less concentrated. For example, use 2 teaspoons of fresh basil instead of 1 teaspoon of dried.

Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Yes, but freeze it without the pasta. Add freshly cooked pasta when reheating to maintain the best texture.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While broken lasagna noodles are traditional, you can use penne, rigatoni, or any pasta shape you prefer.

How can I make the soup spicier?
Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

These FAQs address common concerns and provide helpful solutions to ensure your lasagna soup turns out perfectly.

Conclusion

Lasagna soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings the essence of traditional lasagna into a quick and easy soup format. With its rich tomato base, hearty ground beef, and cheesy toppings, it’s a meal that satisfies both the stomach and the soul. Whether you’re cooking on the stovetop, in an Instant Pot, or using a Crockpot, this recipe is versatile and adaptable to your preferences.

By following the detailed instructions, tips, and serving suggestions provided in this guide, you can create a lasagna soup that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t forget to pair it with delicious sides like garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete dining experience.

So, gather your ingredients, grab your favorite pot, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of the best lasagna soup you’ve ever tasted. Happy cooking!