Imagine a steaming bowl of lasagna soup, where rich, savory flavors swirl together like they’re dancing at a culinary party. Each spoonful captures the essence of comfort food, with layers of melted cheese and tender pasta that warm your soul. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, teasing your senses and building anticipation for the feast ahead. This is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you to a cozy Italian trattoria, even if you’re still in your pajamas.
Now, let me take you back to a chilly autumn evening when I first stumbled upon this delightful recipe. My friends were over for game night, and I needed something hearty yet simple to impress them. Enter lasagna soup—an instant hit! They devoured it faster than I could say “Mangia!” The laughter and warmth around the table made me realize that this dish is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Trust me; you’re going to want to dive into this flavor explosion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This lasagna soup is effortless to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Its robust flavor profile combines hearty ingredients for maximum satisfaction
- The vibrant colors and cheesy goodness make it visually appealing in any bowl
- Enjoy it on chilly evenings or as a crowd-pleaser at gatherings
I remember one time serving this lasagna soup at my family reunion. Everyone was raving about how delicious it was!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef for a healthy twist without sacrificing flavor.
- Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; make sure it’s finely chopped for even cooking.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are key; they infuse the broth with aromatic goodness.
- Canned Tomatoes: Use crushed tomatoes for a rich base; they add depth and balance.
- Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth enhances flavor while keeping salt levels in check.
- Pasta: Choose small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or mini shells that soak up the broth nicely.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully—don’t be shy with this cheesy layer!
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil takes the flavor to another level.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach adds nutrients and color; toss it in towards the end for vibrancy.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is perfect for garnishing; sprinkle generously on top before serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sautéing the Aromatics: Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Once browned, toss in diced onions and minced garlic until they soften and become fragrant.
Building the Base: Stir in crushed tomatoes along with chicken broth and Italian seasoning. Bring everything to a boil while stirring occasionally, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully.
Adding Pasta: Once boiling, add your pasta of choice and reduce heat to simmer gently for about 10-12 minutes until al dente. Keep an eye on it—no one wants mushy pasta!
Finishing Touches: As the pasta cooks, stir in fresh spinach until wilted slightly—this adds color and nutrition!
Cheesy Goodness: Turn off the heat and fold in shredded mozzarella cheese until melted into that glorious gooey texture we all love.
Serving Up: Ladle generous portions into bowls, then sprinkle grated Parmesan on top before diving in. Feel free to garnish with extra herbs if you’re feeling fancy!
And there you have it—a comforting bowl of lasagna soup that warms both body and soul! Whether you’re serving family or enjoying some me-time on the couch with Netflix, this dish delivers hearty satisfaction every single time.
You Must Know
- Lasagna soup is not just a dish; it’s a hug in a bowl
- The comforting aroma fills your kitchen, making everyone feel at home
- A perfect blend of cheese, noodles, and spices creates a symphony of flavor that warms both heart and soul
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground meat, then add onions and garlic for flavor. While that simmers, cook the pasta separately to ensure it doesn’t get mushy.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. You can also swap out traditional ricotta for cottage cheese for a lighter twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store lasagna soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain its creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For incredible flavor, use fresh herbs like basil or oregano
- Avoid overcooking pasta; it should be al dente when added to soup
- Always taste before serving to adjust seasoning as needed
The first time I made lasagna soup, my friends couldn’t stop raving about it. They insisted I should open a restaurant—apparently, feeding them was my secret talent!
FAQ
What is lasagna soup?
Lasagna soup is a comforting dish combining lasagna flavors in a delicious broth.
Can I make lasagna soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just replace meat with vegetables or plant-based protein for a hearty option.
How do I thicken lasagna soup?
To thicken, add more cheese or reduce the broth during cooking for a richer texture.
Lasagna Soup: A Cozy Italian Delight
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Experience the warmth of Italian comfort food with this delicious lasagna soup. Bursting with rich flavors, tender pasta, and melted cheese, each bowl is a heartwarming hug that brings friends and family together. Perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings, this easy-to-make dish will have everyone asking for seconds. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful masterpiece that satisfies both the palate and the soul.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups small pasta (elbow macaroni or mini shells)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil.
- Add pasta and reduce heat to simmer for 10-12 minutes until al dente.
- Stir in fresh spinach until wilted.
- Turn off the heat and mix in shredded mozzarella until melted.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
