Oh, let me tell you, I have a special place in my heart (and stomach!) for this Easy Lasagna Soup. It’s like a warm hug on a cold day, and no kidding, it comes together in about 30 minutes! I first stumbled across this recipe during a busy week when I needed something warm and comforting but didn’t have all day to spend in the kitchen. The result? A deliciously cheesy, hearty soup that had my family coming back for seconds (and thirds!). Since then, it’s become a staple in my home—perfect for cozy nights or when I’m entertaining guests.
What I love most about this dish is its versatility; it feels indulgent like a classic lasagna, but it’s made in one pot! Plus, the aroma of Italian herbs mingling in the air while it simmers is simply heavenly. So, buckle up and let’s dive into how you can whip up this delightful soup!
What’s in Easy Lasagna Soup?
Lasagna Noodles: These hearty noodles are what gives this soup its classic lasagna feel. I love breaking them up into bite-sized pieces; they absorb the flavor of the broth perfectly.
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: This gives the soup a robust flavor! I usually go for lean ground beef, but Italian sausage adds a spicy kick if you’re feeling adventurous.
Onion and Garlic: You can’t go wrong with these aromatics. They lay the flavor foundation, making every spoonful vibrant.
Crushed Tomatoes: This is the base of our soup, creating a luscious, tangy sauce. Go for quality brands with no added sugars for the best taste!
Broth: Vegetable or chicken broth—both work magic here, imparting that deep, comforting flavor we all crave on a chilly night.
Dried Basil and Oregano: These herbs are essential for that Italian taste. They infuse the soup with a burst of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Salt and Pepper: To taste, of course—always season to your heart’s content!
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Oh, the cheesy goodness! Melting it into the soup takes it to another level—a gooey, delicious level.
Fresh Parsley: For garnishing, because we eat with our eyes first! It also adds a pop of freshness that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Is Easy Lasagna Soup Good for You?
Absolutely! This soup contains several wholesome ingredients that not only satisfy your palate but also deliver nutritional benefits.
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: A great source of protein! Just watch the lean content; opting for lean meat helps keep it heart-healthy.
Crushed Tomatoes: They’re loaded with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is great for heart health.
Lasagna Noodles: You can swap regular with whole-wheat or gluten-free noodles if you’re looking for a healthier, alternative spin on this dish.
Fresh Vegetables: If you choose to add veggies like spinach or bell peppers (which I highly recommend for added nutrition), you’re getting even more vitamins and minerals!
Just keep in mind that if you opt for higher-fat meat or add too much cheese, it can tip into more indulgent territory. But hey, balance is key, right?
Ingredients
– 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
– 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
This recipe serves about 4-6 people—plenty for a cozy family dinner or an inviting get-together with friends!
How to Make Easy Lasagna Soup?
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground meat over medium heat until fully cooked. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat—nobody likes a greasy soup!
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion becomes translucent, around 3-4 minutes. Get ready for that mouthwatering aroma to fill your kitchen!
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a delightful boil.
4. Once boiling, toss in the broken lasagna noodles, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Trust me; the soup will start thickening up nicely.
5. Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until it melts. Oh, yes—cheese is life!
6. Serve the soup hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for an extra burst of flavor. Dinner’s ready!
Serving Suggestions and Extra Tips
– If you want to boost the heartiness factor, feel free to sneak in some vegetables like spinach or bell peppers—your body will thank you!
– This dish pairs perfectly with warm, crusty garlic bread for dipping. You can never have too much bread, right?
– Leftovers? They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just a heads up, you may need to add a little additional broth when reheating, as the noodles tend to soak up the liquid over time.
There you have it! This Easy Lasagna Soup not only knocks it out of the park in flavor but also serves as a great conversational piece when you invite friends over. Trust me; they’ll be begging you for the recipe! If you decide to try it out, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Happy cooking!
