Oh my goodness, you guys! If you’re in the mood for something warm and comforting, let me tell you about my absolute favorite recipe: Lasagna Soup! It’s like diving into a cozy blanket on a chilly day but in soup form. I remember the first time I made it; it was a dreary Sunday afternoon, and I was craving something hearty. The smell wafting through my kitchen made my family gather around in anticipation, and by the end, we were all scraping the bottom of our bowls. Trust me, it’s the ultimate bowl of happiness!
What sets this Lasagna Soup apart? It’s the rich flavors that meld together beautifully! We start with the classic combo of ground beef or Italian sausage, golden sautéed onions, and garlic that fill your kitchen with the most irresistible aroma. Then we bring it all to life with crushed tomatoes, a splash of chicken broth, and a medley of Italian spices. To top it all off, we add broken lasagna noodles that soften evenly in the broth and a dollop of ricotta for that creamy finish. Topped with plenty of gooey mozzarella, this soup is pure bliss!
What’s in Lasagna Soup?
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: These meats are the flavorful base for our soup. I usually lean toward ground beef for its savory richness, but Italian sausage adds that kick of flavor if you’re feeling adventurous.
Onions and Garlic: Aromatics are a must! Sautéing onions and garlic is where the magic begins. They infuse the broth with incredible flavor that’ll make your mouth water.
Crushed Tomatoes: This gives the soup its robust depth of flavor. I often go for a brand that has no added sugars, but any good-quality crushed tomatoes will do.
Chicken Broth: This is what brings the soup to life and adds a comforting warmth. Homemade broth is lovely, but I like to keep canned broth on hand for convenience.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme. I sometimes even throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of zing!
Lasagna Noodles: These are the star of the show! Broken into pieces, they soften perfectly in the soup, absorbing all those delicious flavors.
Ricotta Cheese: This adds a creaminess to the soup that’s simply divine. It also gives that classic lasagna texture we all love.
Mozzarella Cheese: To top it all off. Who can resist a bubbling layer of melted cheese? I certainly can’t!
Is Lasagna Soup Good for You?
Absolutely! While it’s indulgent and rich, it also has some wonderful nutritional benefits.
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: Packed with protein, these meats will keep you feeling full and satisfied. Just be mindful of your portion sizes if you’re watching your calorie intake!
Onions and Garlic: These aren’t just flavorful; they are also great for boosting your immune system!
Crushed Tomatoes: They’re rich in antioxidants, especially lycopene, which is beneficial for heart health.
Ricotta Cheese: Offers a good source of calcium and protein. Using part-skim ricotta can cut down on fat while still keeping that creaminess!
Feel free to take a conservative approach in your ingredients, but even if you indulge a little, remember that comfort is key in this soup!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (serves 4-6)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
– 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
How to Make Lasagna Soup?
1. In a large pot or dutch oven, brown the ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
2. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a simmer, letting those amazing flavors meld together for about 10 minutes.
4. Toss in the broken lasagna noodles, stirring occasionally until they soften, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Once the noodles are tender, scoop in the ricotta cheese, stirring it gently into the soup to create a creamy texture.
6. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese, letting it melt into gooey perfection.
7. Serve hot, and if you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
Serving Suggestions for a Cozy Night In
Now, let’s talk serving! I like to serve this Lasagna Soup with a crispy piece of garlic bread or a mixed green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for that perfect companion meal. If you want to get extra cozy, feel free to sprinkle some extra Italian seasoning or fresh herbs on top before serving. It adds an extra touch of love to your delicious, comforting soup!
Trust me, when you whip up this Lasagna Soup, your kitchen will fill with the most mouth-watering aroma, and your loved ones will feel overjoyed after the first bite! I can’t wait for you to try it out and hear how it turns out for you! If you have any tips or variations that made your lasagna soup special, please share! Happy cooking!
