The Best Lasagna Soup

Lasagna Soup is a delightful twist on the classic lasagna, combining all the savory flavors you love in a convenient and comforting soup format. Perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, this hearty dish is easy to prepare and offers a satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting friends, The Best Lasagna Soup will impress with its rich taste and delightful aroma.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: This soup captures the essence of lasagna with a hearty blend of beef, tomatoes, and spices.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can serve this delicious dish in about 35 minutes.
• Versatile: Customize your soup by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness topped with mozzarella or ricotta.

Tools and Preparation

To create The Best Lasagna Soup, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother. Here are some essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: This is crucial for cooking the soup ingredients evenly without spilling over.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and combining ingredients without scratching your pot.
• Cutting board & knife: Essential for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently.

Ingredients

To make The Best Lasagna Soup, gather these ingredients:

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground thyme
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 Tablespoon brown sugar

For the Broth

• 32 ounce carton chicken broth
• 2 (14.5 ounce) cans petite diced tomatoes
• 15 ounce can tomato sauce

For the Pasta

• 2 cups broken Mafalda pasta (or lasagna noodles)

For Topping

• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Shredded mozzarella cheese or a dollop of ricotta cheese (optional)

How to Make The Best Lasagna Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Vegetables

In a large pot, brown and crumble 1 pound ground beef along with 1 small onion, diced, and 1 green bell pepper, diced until they are tender.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Add in 3 cloves garlic, minced during the last couple of minutes of cooking so it doesn’t burn. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Drain Excess Grease

Drain excess grease from the ground beef mixture. Put ground beef back into the pot.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Stir in 1 teaspoon ground thyme, 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 Tablespoon brown sugar, 32 ounce carton chicken broth, 2 (14.5 ounce) cans petite diced tomatoes, and 15 ounce can tomato sauce. Stir well and bring mixture up to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer

Reduce heat, cover, and gently simmer for about 20 minutes.

Step 6: Add Pasta

After 20 minutes, add in 2 cups broken Mafalda pasta. Stir occasionally and simmer until pasta is tender (about 10 minutes). Note: break these up as small or as large as you prefer.

Step 7: Stir in Cheese

Finally, stir in 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 8: Serve

Ladle soup into bowls. Then top each bowl with shredded mozzarella cheese or a dollop of ricotta cheese. Enjoy!

How to Serve The Best Lasagna Soup

Lasagna Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re having a cozy night in or entertaining guests, here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair the soup with warm, crusty bread to soak up every delicious drop. A slice of garlic bread adds an extra layer of flavor.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness. This simple touch enhances the overall presentation and taste.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• Serve the soup alongside a light green salad. A mix of greens, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes dressed in vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.

With Grated Cheese Varieties

• Experiment with different cheeses on top! Besides mozzarella, try using provolone or gouda for a unique twist on classic flavors.

As a Make-Your-Own Bowl

• Set out toppings like additional cheese, crushed red pepper flakes, or olives for guests to personalize their bowls. It adds an interactive element to your meal.

How to Perfect The Best Lasagna Soup

To make sure your Lasagna Soup turns out perfect every time, follow these helpful tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Start with fresh vegetables and high-quality ground beef for the best flavor.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For a thicker soup, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it just before serving.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Feel free to add more herbs or spices based on your preference.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10–15 minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with Noodles: Try different types of pasta like shells or fusilli for fun shapes and textures.
• Freeze Leftovers: This soup freezes well, so make extra for convenient meals later on!

Best Side Dishes for The Best Lasagna Soup

When serving Lasagna Soup, consider these delicious side dishes that pair perfectly and enhance your meal experience.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice! Toasted baguette slices spread with garlic butter create the perfect accompaniment.
2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy Caesar dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
3. Caprese Skewers
   Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make delightful finger food.
4. Roasted Vegetables
   A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrition to your meal.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms
   Savory mushroom caps filled with herbs and cheese provide an elegant touch that pairs well with the soup’s flavors.
6. Vegetable Platter
   An assortment of crunchy veggies served with hummus or ranch dip invites healthy snacking while dining.
7. Antipasto Platter
   A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, and assorted cheeses creates a flavorful starter before diving into the soup.
8. Pasta Salad
   A chilled pasta salad tossed with vegetables and Italian dressing complements the warm soup nicely, creating an inviting spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making The Best Lasagna Soup can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the ground beef properly can result in less flavor. Always take the time to brown it until it’s nicely caramelized.
• Overcooking the pasta: Adding pasta too early or cooking it too long can turn it mushy. Add it towards the end and check for tenderness regularly.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Each brand of broth may vary in saltiness. Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheeses may not melt well or provide the right flavor. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan and high-quality mozzarella for better results.
• Not letting it simmer enough: Skipping the simmering step can lead to a bland soup. Allow time for flavors to meld together by simmering adequately.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The Best Lasagna Soup will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing The Best Lasagna Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating The Best Lasagna Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions related to The Best Lasagna Soup that might help you enhance your cooking experience.

How can I customize The Best Lasagna Soup?

You can add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for more nutrition. Experiment with different herbs such as basil or oregano for varied flavors.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative that keeps the soup lean while still being delicious.

What type of cheese is best for topping?

For topping, shredded mozzarella or dollops of ricotta cheese work wonderfully. You can also mix them for added flavor!

How do I thicken The Best Lasagna Soup?

If you prefer a thicker soup, consider adding a cornstarch slurry or more broken pasta during cooking.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This soup is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats easily, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Final Thoughts

The Best Lasagna Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different proteins or vegetables based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!