Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup – All the Comfort of Lasagna in a Bowl

Introduction

Creamy Lasagna Soup is everything you crave in traditional lasagna — rich tomato flavor, creamy cheese, savory ground meat, and tender noodles — but made simple in one pot. This hearty and satisfying soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy nights when you want something warm and cozy without the layering and baking of a full lasagna.

This version is made extra creamy with a swirl of ricotta and parmesan stirred in just before serving, giving you that cheesy lasagna essence in every spoonful.

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Ingredients Overview

Ground Meat

• Ground beef or Italian sausage: Adds a savory, meaty base.
• Lean beef (85/15) or turkey for a lighter version.

Aromatics

• Onion and garlic: Build depth and warmth.
• Italian seasoning: Classic herb blend with oregano, basil, and thyme.

Tomatoes & Broth

• Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce: Gives it that deep lasagna flavor.
• Tomato paste: Adds richness and body.
• Beef or chicken broth: Thins the soup to the right consistency while adding flavor.

Pasta

• Broken lasagna noodles: Classic choice for lasagna lovers.
• Alternatives: Mafalda, bowtie, rotini, or any short-cut pasta work well too.

Creamy Cheesy Finish

• Ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and that lasagna filling flavor.
• Parmesan: Brings saltiness and nuttiness.
• Mozzarella: Optional for topping or stirring in.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, heat:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

Add:

• 1 lb ground beef or sausage
• 1 diced yellow onion
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cook until meat is browned and onion is soft. Drain excess fat if needed.

Add:

• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
  Sauté for 1 minute.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base

Stir in:

• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Let tomato paste cook for 1–2 minutes to develop flavor.

Add:

• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups beef broth or chicken broth
• 8 oz broken lasagna noodles

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes, until noodles are tender.

Step 3: Stir in the Creamy Cheesy Finish

Turn heat to low. Stir in:

• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• ¼ cup grated parmesan
• Optional: ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk for added richness

Simmer 2–3 minutes until creamy and heated through.

Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or chili flakes.

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian version: Skip the meat and use lentils or mushrooms.
• Make it spicy: Add Italian sausage and a pinch of crushed red pepper.
• Low-carb: Use zucchini ribbons or hearts of palm pasta instead of noodles.
• Make ahead: Cook soup without noodles and add pasta when reheating for better texture.

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

Serve with:

• Garlic bread or crusty baguette
• A crisp green salad with balsamic dressing
• A sprinkle of extra mozzarella or basil on top

Perfect for:

• Cold evenings
• Family dinners
• Meal prep lunches — it reheats beautifully

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Nutritional & Health Notes

• Protein-rich: From the meat and cheese.
• Calcium boost: Thanks to ricotta and parmesan.
• Customizable: Easy to make gluten-free or lower-carb by swapping pasta.

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FAQs

Q1: Can I freeze lasagna soup?

Yes, but for best results, freeze it without the pasta to avoid mushiness. Add fresh noodles when reheating.

Q2: Can I use pre-cooked pasta?

You can, but add it at the end so it doesn’t overcook or turn soggy.

Q3: Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes — use a plant-based cream and cheese alternatives, or skip the creamy finish.

Q4: Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Yes — cook the meat first, then transfer all ingredients (except pasta and cheeses) to the slow cooker. Add pasta in the last 30 minutes and cheese just before serving.

Q5: What’s the best broth to use?

Beef broth gives a deep, hearty flavor, but chicken or veggie broth works too.

Q6: Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes — blend it smooth if you want a creamier consistency.

Q7: What herbs go best as a garnish?

Fresh basil, parsley, or even oregano add a lovely finish and aroma.

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