Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Cheese
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Experience the comforting flavors of classic lasagna in a hearty soup that’s perfect for cozy nights! This Lasagna Soup is loaded with savory ground meat, rich tomato sauce, and tender lasagna noodles, all topped with creamy ricotta cheese that melts beautifully into every bowl. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s a delightful twist on the traditional Italian favorite that the entire family will love.
Discover the rich flavors of Italy with this lasagna soup that combines all the best elements of traditional lasagna in a comforting soup form.
Comforting and Hearty Meal
Lasagna Soup brings all the comforting elements of traditional lasagna into a satisfying bowl. The combination of simmered ground beef and aromatic herbs creates a rich, savory base that warms both the body and the soul. With its hearty texture and bold flavors, this dish is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. It’s an easy way to enjoy the beloved lasagna flavor without the fuss of layering noodles and cheese.
This soup is not just a meal; it's a complete experience. The process of simmering the ingredients allows the flavors to meld wonderfully, creating an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen. Each spoonful transports you to an Italian kitchen, where hearty meals are made with love. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this Lasagna Soup will soon become a family favorite in your home.
Easy to Customize
One of the best aspects of Lasagna Soup is its versatility. You can easily modify the recipe to suit your family's tastes or dietary preferences. For instance, if you prefer turkey or chicken over beef, feel free to substitute. You can also add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to enhance the flavor and increase the nutritional value. This means you can create your own signature version of this classic dish, making it a great option for picky eaters.
Moreover, for those looking for a lighter version, swapping regular lasagna noodles for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta is a simple adjustment. Similarly, you can use low-fat cheese options to lighten it up without sacrificing taste. The ability to tweak ingredients means you can serve a delicious, homemade meal while accommodating various dietary needs and preferences.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Lasagna Soup is not only delicious but also a fantastic recipe for meal prepping. It can be made in large batches and stored for later use, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Store leftover soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze individual portions for a quick meal whenever you need one. This means you can enjoy the comforting taste of homemade lasagna soup even on the busiest days.
When reheating, simply add a touch of broth to loosen the soup, and consider topping your bowl with fresh ricotta and mozzarella again for that freshly-made taste. This soup retains its flavors well, making it an ideal make-ahead meal that can save you time in the kitchen while still providing a warm and delicious dish for your family.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
These are the key ingredients you'll need to make the delicious Lasagna Soup.
Instructions
Cooking Steps
Brown the Meat
In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat along with the chopped onion and minced garlic until fully cooked.
Add the Sauce and Noodles
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the broken lasagna noodles and bring to a simmer.
Cook the Soup
Let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender.
Serve with Ricotta
Serve hot, topped with a generous scoop of ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Cheese!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Lasagna Soup experience, consider pairing it with a side of crusty garlic bread or a light Caesar salad. The contrasting textures and flavors of a crunchy salad or warm bread complement the soup beautifully, enhancing the overall dining experience. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley as a garnish can also add a burst of color and freshness to your bowl.
For an extra touch of indulgence, feel free to drizzle some extra virgin olive oil on top before serving. This not only adds a hint of richness but also brings together the robust flavors of the soup.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, storing them correctly is crucial to maintaining the soup’s flavor and texture. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. For optimal freshness, try to consume refrigerated leftovers within three days, or freeze them if you’d like to enjoy them later on. When freezing, label the containers with the date to help keep track of storage times.
When you're ready to eat, thaw the frozen servings overnight in the fridge. Then, reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore the desired consistency. This careful storage approach ensures you can enjoy this delightful soup multiple times without losing quality.
Nutritional Information
This Lasagna Soup not only satisfies your cravings but can also be part of a balanced diet. Depending on your choice of ingredients, it can provide a healthy mix of protein from the meat and cheese, essential vitamins from the tomatoes and herbs, and carbohydrates from the lasagna noodles. By incorporating vegetables, you can further boost the nutrition content while keeping it hearty and filling.
For those keeping an eye on calories, consider reducing the amount of cheese or opting for part-skim options. Additionally, serving the soup with a side salad can help round out the meal while keeping it health-conscious. It's a delicious way to enjoy a classic dish while making informed choices for your health.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground turkey or sausage can be used as a substitute.
→ How can I make this soup vegetarian?
You can replace the meat with additional vegetables and use vegetable broth.
Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Cheese
Experience the comforting flavors of classic lasagna in a hearty soup that’s perfect for cozy nights! This Lasagna Soup is loaded with savory ground meat, rich tomato sauce, and tender lasagna noodles, all topped with creamy ricotta cheese that melts beautifully into every bowl. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s a delightful twist on the traditional Italian favorite that the entire family will love.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
How-To Steps
In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat along with the chopped onion and minced garlic until fully cooked.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the broken lasagna noodles and bring to a simmer.
Let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender.
Serve hot, topped with a generous scoop of ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 3g