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This soul-warming lasagna soup brings all the cozy flavors of classic lasagna into a comforting bowl. With the perfect blend of tomato, herbs, creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and chewy pasta, it is everything you love about Italian comfort food but without the fuss of layering and baking. Perfect for chilly nights or when you need something both hearty and simple, this recipe will become your new family favorite.
My first time making this was after a long day when I needed maximum comfort with minimal effort. Now I keep the ingredients on hand and whip it up whenever anyone in the house asks for “something cozy.”
Ingredients
- Italian sausage: Brings deep savory and slightly spicy flavor Look for sausage with visible flecks of herbs for best taste
- Tomatoes: Use a mixture of tomato paste crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes for a layered robust broth Choose ripe canned or fresh tomatoes with no added sugar
- Lasagna noodles: Broken into bite-sized pieces these noodles give that classic lasagna texture Wide noodles hold onto the cheesy soup base beautifully
- Ricotta cheese: Brings smooth creamy richness Use whole milk ricotta for best melt and flavor
- Mozzarella cheese: Adds the stretch and gooeyness of baked lasagna Fresh mozzarella melts best Look for one with minimal additives
- Onion and garlic: The flavor backbone Soft sweet sautéed onions with freshly minced garlic create a fragrant base
- Italian seasoning: A balanced blend of herbs boosts the Italian flavor Use a mix with basil oregano and a hint of thyme for best results
- Good quality broth: Chicken or vegetable broth makes the soup aromatic and hearty Choose low-sodium to control saltiness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Sausage and Aromatics:
- Start with a large heavy-bottomed pot Set over medium heat Add Italian sausage breaking it apart with a spoon Cook until browned and caramelized then add diced onions Continue stirring until translucent and soft Finally add minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant This unlocks deep savory notes in the broth
- Add Tomatoes and Broth:
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes diced tomatoes and a generous spoonful of tomato paste Stir thoroughly Add chicken or vegetable broth scraping up any browned sausage bits from the bottom This ensures maximum flavor Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let cook for about fifteen minutes for flavors to meld
- Cook the Pasta in the Broth:
- Drop in broken lasagna noodles and stir to separate them Let them cook uncovered gently simmering Stir every few minutes to prevent sticking Check at about ten minutes for al dente texture The noodles will soften more after sitting in the soup
- Add Cheeses for Creaminess:
- Lower the heat and add scoops of ricotta plus a generous handful of mozzarella Stir slowly until the cheeses melt through the soup and thicken it Creamy cheesy ribbons will appear as you stir The soup should now resemble melted lasagna filling
- Garnish and Serve:
- Ladle soup into bowls and top with torn basil or fresh parsley for brightness Serve piping hot A side of crusty bread makes it perfect for soaking up every last bite
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I am always amazed at how the mozzarella melts into little strings when you scoop it This soup reminds me of family Sunday suppers where we all raced for the cheesiest bites and fought over who got the last ladleful out of the pot
Storage Tips
Lasagna soup keeps well in the fridge for up to three days Store it in a container with a tight-fitting lid If it thickens too much simply add a splash of broth or water while reheating For longer storage freeze in individual portions for up to two months Just remember to cook the noodles a bit under for best texture after thawing
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap the sausage for ground turkey beef or a plant-based crumble for variety To make it vegetarian skip the sausage and load up on mushrooms zucchini and spinach For dairy-free use cashew cream and your favorite vegan shredded cheese
Serving Suggestions
Pair with crunchy garlic toast parmesan crisps or a fresh salad with tangy vinaigrette For a heartier twist try spooning the soup over creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables If you like heat add chili flakes or serve with spicy Italian sausage
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Cultural Context
Lasagna soup is a playful twist on the traditional Italian layered casserole It takes the most beloved parts of the classic dish and streamlines them for busy weeknights Though not found in old-world kitchens it channels the same heart and soul as any big pan of homemade lasagna
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of pasta is best for lasagna soup?
Broken lasagna noodles work best, as they mimic the traditional layers but in a spoon-friendly format. You can also use other short pasta if needed.
- → Can I make lasagna soup vegetarian?
Yes! Skip the sausage and add your favorite vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers for a hearty, meatless meal.
- → How do I get a creamy texture in lasagna soup?
Stir in ricotta and mozzarella at the end of cooking. The cheeses will melt into the broth, creating a rich, creamy finish.
- → What are good toppings or sides for lasagna soup?
Top with fresh basil and extra cheese. Serve with crusty garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
- → Is it possible to prepare lasagna soup in advance?
Yes, but for best texture, cook pasta separately and add when reheating. The soup base keeps well for up to three days in the fridge.
- → Can I make a vegan version of lasagna soup?
Absolutely! Use plant-based cheese alternatives and swap meat for more veggies or vegan sausage. Vegetable broth works perfectly.