Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe: Cheesy Beef & Tomato Pasta

Lasagna Soup is an incredible dish that brings the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna into a warm, hearty bowl. This Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe: Cheesy Beef & Tomato Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. With its rich tomato broth, tender noodles, and cheesy goodness, you’ll find this soup is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this delicious meal when you’re craving comfort food without the fuss of layered lasagna.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe allows you to whip up a delicious meal in just over an hour, perfect for those busy nights.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimize cleanup with this all-in-one recipe that cooks everything in a single pot.
• Comforting Flavors: Experience the rich taste of lasagna in a soup format, making it ideal for chilly evenings.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spices or add your favorite vegetables for a personal touch.
• Cheesy Goodness: With layers of creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella, every spoonful is packed with cheese.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your cooking adventure, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for simmering all ingredients together, helping flavors meld beautifully.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot while ensuring even cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for preparing the creamy ricotta topping that adds richness to the soup.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
• 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil (or 2 tbsp fresh, chopped)
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 6 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup beef broth (non-alcoholic alternative for red apple vinegar)
• 10-12 lasagna noodles, broken into 1-2 inch pieces
• 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
• 1/2 cup fresh Italian parsley, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 tsp granulated sugar (optional)

FOR THE CREAMY RICOTTA TOPPING:

• 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
• 1 large egg (optional)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Pinch of black pepper

FOR SERVING AND GARNISH:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Extra fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley
• Crusty garlic bread or warm baguette

How to Make Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe: Cheesy Beef & Tomato Pasta

Step 1: Sauté Meat and Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and brown thoroughly while breaking it apart. Drain excess fat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes; cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Deglaze and Build Tomato Base

Pour in beef broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it reduce for about 2–3 minutes. Stir in tomato paste and cook for another few minutes before adding crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes.

Step 3: Simmer Soup Base

Add beef or vegetable broth to the pot, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low. Cover partially and let simmer for approximately 30–60 minutes so flavors can meld together. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional sugar as needed.

Step 4: Cook Lasagna Noodles

Break lasagna noodles into irregular pieces while the soup simmers. Increase heat back to medium-high until boiling again. Add broken noodles immediately while stirring to prevent sticking. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook uncovered for about 10–12 minutes until al dente.

Step 5: Finish Soup and Prepare Ricotta Topping

Once noodles are cooked through, stir in whole milk or heavy cream along with chopped parsley. Taste again for seasoning adjustments. In a separate mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, optional egg, salt, and black pepper; mix thoroughly.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle generous portions of hot soup into bowls. Add a dollop of creamy ricotta mixture on top of each serving then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese. Garnish with extra fresh basil or parsley before serving alongside crusty garlic bread or a warm baguette.

Enjoy your delicious Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe: Cheesy Beef & Tomato Pasta!

How to Serve Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe: Cheesy Beef & Tomato Pasta

Serving Easy Lasagna Soup is an enjoyable experience that can be customized to fit your taste. This hearty dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Add a Creamy Ricotta Dollop

• A generous spoonful of the creamy ricotta topping adds richness and a burst of flavor to each bowl.

Fresh Herbs Garnish

• Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness that brightens the dish.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread for dipping. It complements the soup’s flavors perfectly and adds a satisfying crunch.

Top with Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, add more shredded mozzarella on top before serving for an extra cheesy delight.

Serve with Salad

• A simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup and adds a refreshing touch to the meal.

Enjoy with Wine or Sparkling Water

• Pair your soup with a glass of sparkling water or your favorite non-alcoholic beverage to cleanse your palate while enjoying this rich dish.

How to Perfect Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe: Cheesy Beef & Tomato Pasta

To elevate your Easy Lasagna Soup, consider these helpful tips for perfection. They will ensure you achieve the best flavor and texture every time you make it.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs, high-quality tomatoes, and lean ground beef for better flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs based on your preference during cooking.
• Cook Noodles Separately: For a less mushy texture, cook lasagna noodles separately and add them just before serving.
• Add Vegetables: Enhance nutrition by incorporating spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers into the soup.
• Let it Rest: Allow the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking. This helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Freeze Leftovers: If you have extra soup, freeze it in portions for a quick meal later on!

Best Side Dishes for Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe: Cheesy Beef & Tomato Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Lasagna Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread
   Deliciously toasted bread spread with garlic butter that complements the soup perfectly.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese for added crunch.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted until caramelized provide a sweet contrast.

4. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil make a refreshing side that enhances Italian flavors.

5. Stuffed Mushrooms
   Savory mushrooms filled with herbed breadcrumbs or cheese offer an elegant touch to your dinner table.

6. Antipasto Platter
   A mix of olives, marinated artichokes, cheeses, and cured meats (substituting turkey or beef) creates a flavorful appetizer spread.

7. Pasta Salad
   A cold pasta salad tossed in Italian dressing brings another layer of flavor while being easy to prepare ahead of time.

8. Steamed Green Beans
   Simple yet elegant; lightly steamed green beans seasoned with lemon zest add freshness without overpowering the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Lasagna Soup, there are common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Browning Step: Failing to brown the beef thoroughly can result in a bland soup. Make sure to take your time and brown the meat well for rich flavors.
• Not Adjusting Seasonings: Many forget to taste and adjust seasonings. Always taste your soup before serving and add salt, pepper, or sugar if needed to balance flavors.
• Overcooking Noodles: Cooking lasagna noodles too long can lead to mushiness. Add them during the last stages of cooking to ensure they remain al dente.
• Using Low-Quality Tomatoes: Poor-quality canned tomatoes can ruin the broth’s flavor. Opt for high-quality crushed and diced tomatoes for the best results.
• Neglecting the Cheese Topping: Some skip or skimp on the creamy ricotta topping, which is essential for that classic lasagna flavor. Don’t skip this step; it adds richness and creaminess.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Easy Lasagna Soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe: Cheesy Beef & Tomato Pasta

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe: Cheesy Beef & Tomato Pasta

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), transfer soup into an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 25-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl; heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe.

Can I make Easy Lasagna Soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Keep it stored in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

What can I use instead of beef broth?

You can substitute beef broth with vegetable broth or chicken broth for a lighter taste without compromising flavor.

How do I customize my Easy Lasagna Soup?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or swap ground beef for turkey or lamb based on your preference.

Can I freeze this Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure it’s cooled completely before freezing. Store it in airtight containers and enjoy later!

Final Thoughts

This Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe is a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, combining comfort food flavors into a cozy one-pot meal. It’s versatile enough for family dinners or weeknight meals, allowing you to customize ingredients based on your tastes. Give it a try and enjoy a warm bowl of cheesy goodness!