Introduction to Hearty Lasagna Soup
When the cool breeze of autumn starts sweeping through your windows, or when winter’s icy fingers demand a warm embrace, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of soup to kindle warmth in your soul. Hearty Lasagna Soup takes the comfort of traditional lasagna and transforms it into a steaming, spoonful delight that is both familiar and invigorating. This recipe is more than just a soup; it’s an experience, a hug in a bowl for those seeking comfort on a chilly day or simply yearning for a taste of home.
Ingredients for Lasagna Soup
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 28-oz can of crushed tomatoes
- 6 cups of beef or chicken broth
- 2 cups water (optional for a thinner consistency)
- 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1⁄2 tsp salt
- 1⁄4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1⁄4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1⁄2 cup shredded mozzarella
- Fresh basil for garnish
For the Ricotta Mix
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1⁄4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1⁄4 cup shredded mozzarella
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
1. Preparing the Base
- Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef or sausage and cook until it’s nicely browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
2. Adding the Liquids and Tomatoes
- Pour in the can of crushed tomatoes, followed by the beef or chicken broth. If you prefer a less thick soup, add 2 cups of water.
- Season the soup with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Cooking the Noodles
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the broken lasagna noodles, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid. Cook until al dente, typically about 10 minutes, but check your noodle packaging for exact times.
4. Preparing the Ricotta Mix
- In a small bowl, combine the ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella for the topping. This will mimic the lasagna’s creamy cheese layer.
5. Serving the Soup
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Dollop a spoonful of the ricotta mixture on top of each serving.
- Sprinkle with additional mozzarella for that ultimate cheese pull.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an added touch of color and flavor.
🍜 Note: If the soup thickens upon sitting, simply add more broth or water when reheating to achieve your desired consistency.
Tips for the Perfect Hearty Lasagna Soup
- Meat Variation: While ground beef or sausage are traditional, you could substitute with ground turkey or even lentils for a vegetarian twist.
- Cheese Options: Mix up the cheeses or add more if you prefer. A sprinkle of Fontina or Asiago can be delightful.
- Pasta Shape: If lasagna noodles aren't available, use any pasta shape you have. Penne, fusilli, or bowtie pasta all work wonderfully.
- Freeze Ahead: This soup freezes well without the noodles. Cook noodles fresh when reheating the soup for a better texture.
- Flavor Infusion: For an extra layer of flavor, let the soup sit for an hour after cooking to allow the flavors to meld.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Net Carbs | 35g |
The Hearty Lasagna Soup not only brings the rich flavors of lasagna into a soothing, easy-to-make soup, but it also delivers on nutrition, offering a balanced meal in a bowl. Whether you're cooking for a crowd, want a comforting meal for the week, or just need something to warm you up, this recipe is your culinary companion.
Can I make Lasagna Soup ahead of time?
+
Yes, you can prepare the soup base ahead of time and add the noodles when reheating to maintain their texture. The soup itself will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
What can I use if I don’t have lasagna noodles?
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Any pasta shape can be used. Smaller shapes like rotini or broken spaghetti work just as well.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
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Absolutely! Replace the meat with lentils or a mix of mushrooms for texture and umami flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of meat-based broth.
