Lasagna Soup: A Comforting Italian Twist
Lasagna soup is the ultimate comfort food, capturing all the flavors of classic lasagna in a warm, hearty bowl. This delightful dish combines the savory taste of lasagna with the ease of a one-pot meal, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. With its rich tomato base, hearty meat, tender pasta, and creamy cheese, lasagna soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Lasagna Soup Recipe
Lasagna soup is a fantastic way to enjoy all the quintessential flavors of traditional lasagna without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s an ideal dish for busy nights when you crave something comforting yet easy to prepare. The combination of aromatic herbs and spices, flavorful sausage, and melty cheese makes for a mouthwatering treat. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be tailored to different tastes or dietary needs, allowing you to create a dish everyone will love.
This soup is also an excellent choice for entertaining. Serve it at your next dinner party, and you’re sure to impress your guests with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation. It’s a crowd-pleasing option that pairs perfectly with a side salad or crusty bread.
Context/Background
Lasagna soup draws inspiration from the traditional Italian lasagna, a dish that has been cherished for centuries. While lasagna itself is believed to have originated in Ancient Greece, it became popular in Italy during the Middle Ages. Over time, the dish evolved into the layered pasta, meat, and cheese classic we know today. Lasagna soup provides a modern twist on these timeless flavors, transforming the labor-intensive process into a simple, savory soup.
Recipe Details
Serves: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- In a large pot, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it into pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the tomato paste, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Add oregano and thyme, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the broken lasagna noodles, cooking until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the ricotta cheese until well combined.
- Serve the soup hot, topped with mozzarella cheese. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Tips for Perfect Lasagna Soup
- For a spicier version, use hot Italian sausage.
- Add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more broth for a thinner soup or less for a thicker one.
- Use fresh herbs, if available, for enhanced flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your lasagna soup with a fresh green salad and a slice of garlic bread for a complete meal. For a rustic touch, serve it in individual bread bowls. A glass of red wine complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Storage and Leftovers
Store leftover lasagna soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of broth if the soup has thickened. For longer storage, freeze the soup without the noodles, as they could become mushy when thawed.
Final Thoughts
This easy lasagna soup recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves the classic taste of lasagna but is short on time. Its comforting flavors, combined with the convenience of a soup, make it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Treat yourself and your family to this delicious bowl of goodness!
Recipe Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the sausage with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Try using whole wheat lasagna noodles for a healthier twist.
- Customize the cheese blend by adding parmesan or pecorino for extra depth of flavor.