Looking for a meal that warms your heart and fills your belly? This Easy Lasagna Soup is the answer. It’s a comforting blend of ground beef, tomatoes, and gooey cheese, perfect for chilly nights. I’ll guide you step-by-step to create this hearty dish. Whether you’re cooking for family or just yourself, this recipe brings joy to every bowl. Let’s get started on making your new favorite soup!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups beef broth
The main ingredients make this lasagna soup hearty and filling. Ground beef gives it a rich flavor. The crushed tomatoes add a sweet and tangy taste. Beef broth helps to create a savory base. This combo makes every spoonful comforting.
Cheese Varieties
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Cheese plays a big role in this dish. Ricotta cheese brings creaminess. It melts beautifully and adds depth. The mozzarella cheese makes each bowl cheesy and gooey. Finally, Parmesan cheese gives a salty kick. Together, these cheeses create a lovely layering of texture and taste.
Seasonings and Aromatics
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Seasonings and aromatics are key to flavor. Fresh garlic and onion add wonderful aroma while cooking. Dried basil and oregano give a classic Italian taste. These simple ingredients transform the soup from basic to fantastic. Don’t skimp on these; they make a big difference!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Base
To start, I heat a splash of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Next, I add the chopped onion and sauté it for about 3-4 minutes. I want the onion to be soft and a bit clear. Then, I toss in the minced garlic. I stir it for about 30 seconds to let the aroma bloom.
After that, I add 1 pound of ground beef to the pot. I break it into smaller pieces as it cooks. I cook until the beef is browned. If there is too much fat, I carefully drain it.
Building the Soup
Now comes the exciting part. I stir in 28 ounces of crushed tomatoes and 4 cups of beef broth. Then, I sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and optional crushed red pepper flakes for heat. I season it with salt and black pepper. I increase the heat to bring the soup to a rolling boil.
Cooking the Noodles
Once the soup boils, I lower the heat. I add 8 broken lasagna noodles into the pot. I let the soup simmer for about 10-12 minutes. I stir it occasionally, so the noodles do not stick. I want them to be al dente, just firm enough to bite into.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Best Flavor
To make your lasagna soup shine, use fresh herbs for garnish. Fresh basil adds a bright taste. It lifts the flavor and looks great too. You can even chop some and stir them in right before serving. For heat, balance the spices. Use crushed red pepper flakes for a kick. Adjust the amount to your taste. Start small, then add more if you like spice.
Texture and Consistency
Keep the noodles from becoming mushy by stirring them often. Once you add the broken noodles, pay attention! They should cook for about 10 to 12 minutes. If you want a thicker soup, mix in a little extra ricotta. It makes the soup creamy. You can also add more crushed tomatoes to thicken it up. Just remember to adjust the seasoning.
Presentation Suggestions
Serve the soup in rustic bowls for a cozy look. A drizzle of olive oil on top adds a nice shine. It also enhances the flavor. Pair the soup with crusty bread for dipping. This makes each bite more satisfying. You can even sprinkle some extra cheese on top for a gourmet touch.
Variations
Vegetarian Option
You can easily make this soup vegetarian. Instead of ground beef, use mushrooms or lentils. Mushrooms add a nice texture and flavor. Lentils are hearty and full of protein. Both options keep the soup filling and tasty. You will still enjoy the rich flavors of the sauce.
Gluten-Free Adaptation
If you need a gluten-free option, swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta. Many stores carry great gluten-free noodles now. They cook up just as well as regular pasta. Just follow the package instructions for best results. This way, everyone can enjoy the soup without worry.
Extra Ingredients
Feel free to add more veggies to your soup! Spinach is a great choice; it wilts nicely and adds nutrients. Zucchini can also be a fun addition. You can chop it up and throw it in during the last few minutes of cooking. This boosts the flavor and makes the soup even heartier.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Instructions
To store your Easy Lasagna Soup, let it cool first. Then, pour the soup into an airtight container. Make sure to seal it well. Place it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Stir occasionally to heat evenly.
Freezing Tips
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top, as the soup will expand when frozen. You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Heat it on the stove until warm, stirring often. You can add a little extra broth if it seems too thick.
Shelf Life
For the best taste, try to eat your soup within a week of making it. After that, the flavors may not be as fresh. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. If it smells off or looks strange, it’s best to throw it out. Enjoy your Easy Lasagna Soup while it’s at its best!
FAQs
How do I make Easy Lasagna Soup?
To make Easy Lasagna Soup, follow these simple steps:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot.
2. Sauté chopped onion until it’s soft.
3. Add minced garlic and ground beef. Cook until the beef is brown.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and spices.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, then add broken lasagna noodles.
6. Simmer for about 10-12 minutes until noodles are al dente.
This soup is easy and quick. You can enjoy a warm bowl in just 30 minutes.
Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?
Yes, you can mix and match cheeses! Here are some tasty options:
– Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a different texture.
– Swap mozzarella for provolone for a sharper taste.
– Try adding goat cheese for a tangy flavor.
Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. It’s a fun way to make the soup unique!
Is lasagna soup healthy?
Lasagna soup can be healthy if you watch your portions. It has protein from the beef and calcium from the cheese. Here are some tips to keep it nutritious:
– Use lean ground beef or turkey to cut down on fat.
– Add extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers for more nutrients.
– Control your cheese portions to lower the calorie count.
This soup can fit well in a balanced diet if you enjoy it in moderation.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making lasagna soup ahead of time is easy. Here are some tips:
– Prepare the soup base and store it in the fridge. Add noodles when you heat it up.
– You can freeze the soup too. Just leave out the noodles, as they get mushy when frozen.
– To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat. Stir often to keep it from sticking.
Making it ahead saves time and fills your home with a lovely aroma!
This blog post covers how to make easy lasagna soup, starting with key ingredients like ground beef, tomatoes, and cheese. I shared step-by-step instructions to guide you through cooking the base and building the soup. Helpful tips teach you how to enhance flavor and texture. For those with dietary needs, I included variations and storage info for leftovers.
Lasagna soup is a flexible and fun dish. Enjoy tailoring it to your taste, and impress your family tonight.
