Lasagna soup combines the rich flavors of traditional lasagna with a comforting broth, perfect for chilly evenings. To make it, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil, then brown 1 pound of Italian sausage. Stir in a can of crushed tomatoes and 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth. Add broken lasagna noodles, simmering until tender and creamy. Serve hot, topped with dollops of ricotta and a sprinkle of fresh basil for that authentic touch. This easy recipe allows for customization with your favorite vegetables. Stick around to discover tips and variations that can elevate your lasagna soup experience!
Key Takeaways
- Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil, then brown Italian sausage for a flavorful base.
- Add crushed tomatoes and broth, simmering to meld flavors before adding broken lasagna noodles.
- Incorporate ricotta and mozzarella cheese, allowing the soup to thicken and become creamy.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil for an authentic touch and extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator; flavors will deepen and can be reheated with added broth for consistency.
History
Lasagna soup has its roots in the classic Italian dish, lasagna, which dates back to ancient times. You can trace its origins to layers of pasta, meat, and cheese that were popularized in Italy.
Over the centuries, lasagna evolved, and regional variations emerged, showcasing local ingredients and flavors. As Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to America, they adapted lasagna to suit their new surroundings.
This creativity led to the birth of lasagna soup, where all the beloved elements of lasagna come together in a comforting bowl of broth. The dish captures the essence of family gatherings and shared meals, allowing you to enjoy the heartiness of lasagna in a new, delightful form.
It's a reflection of how food evolves with culture.
Recipe
Lasagna soup is a delicious twist on the classic Italian dish, combining the comforting layers of lasagna with a hearty and flavorful broth. This dish is perfect for chilly evenings or when you're looking for a quick and satisfying meal. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also allows you to enjoy all the flavors of lasagna without the hassle of layering and baking.
To make this lasagna soup, you'll simmer a rich tomato sauce with Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and tender pasta. The result is a warm and inviting soup that captures the essence of traditional lasagna while being perfect for a cozy bowl on the couch. Top it off with creamy ricotta and a sprinkle of fresh basil for an extra touch of authenticity.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned. Stir in the onion, garlic, and bell pepper, cooking until the vegetables are softened.
Add the crushed tomatoes, broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes. Add the broken lasagna noodles and cook for an additional 10 minutes until the noodles are tender.
Serve hot, topped with dollops of ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and a sprinkle of fresh basil.
For the best results, use high-quality canned tomatoes for a richer flavor. Feel free to customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.
If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or add more noodles. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, and the flavors will deepen as it sits. Reheat gently on the stove and add a splash of broth to loosen it up if needed.
Enjoy your lasagna soup!
Cooking Steps
Now that you've gathered all your ingredients, it's time to start cooking!
First, you'll sauté the onions and garlic to build a flavorful base.
Then, you'll add the ground beef or sausage, setting the stage for a hearty lasagna soup.
Step 1. Sauté Onions and Garlic
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Once the oil shimmers, add a finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Next, mince three cloves of garlic and add them to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant but isn't browned.
The combination of the sautéed onion and garlic will create a flavorful base for your lasagna soup. Make sure to scrape up any bits from the bottom of the pot to enhance the taste.
Once you've reached this point, you're ready to move on to the next step in creating your delicious soup!
Step 2. Add Ground Beef or Sausage
To enhance the hearty flavor of your soup, add one pound of ground beef or Italian sausage to the pot.
Break the meat apart with a wooden spoon as you add it, ensuring it browns evenly. Cook it over medium heat for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it's fully browned and no longer pink.
If you're using sausage, you can choose spicy or sweet, depending on your preference.
Once the meat is cooked through, drain any excess grease from the pot to keep your soup from becoming too oily.
This step not only improves the flavor but also the texture of your lasagna soup, making it deliciously satisfying.
Enjoy the rich aroma filling your kitchen!
Step 3. Stir in Tomato Sauce
Once the meat is browned and any excess grease has been drained, stir in a generous jar of tomato sauce to create a rich base for your lasagna soup.
Make sure to mix it thoroughly, allowing the sauce to coat the meat evenly. This step infuses your soup with a deep, savory flavor that mimics traditional lasagna.
As you stir, watch the sauce bubble and simmer, releasing its enticing aroma. If you want to elevate the taste, consider adding a pinch of sugar or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Let the mixture cook for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully before moving on to the next step. Enjoy the smell!
Step 4. Add Broth and Seasonings
As you prepare to enhance the flavors of your lasagna soup, gradually pour in the broth, stirring to combine. This will create a rich base for your dish.
Next, add your seasonings—don't be shy! Sprinkle in dried oregano, basil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick. Taste as you go; you can always adjust the seasoning later.
If you prefer a touch of sweetness, consider adding a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomato sauce.
Keep stirring until everything's well incorporated, and let the mixture come to a gentle simmer. This step is essential for melding the flavors together, setting the stage for a hearty and satisfying lasagna soup.
Step 5. Simmer With Pasta and Cheese
Now it's time to add the pasta and cheese, transforming your broth into a deliciously hearty meal.
Stir in your favorite short pasta, like penne or rotini, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the pasta to cook perfectly, soaking up all those rich flavors.
Once the pasta is al dente, reduce the heat and fold in a generous amount of ricotta cheese. Stir until it melts into the soup, creating a creamy texture.
For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle in shredded mozzarella and Parmesan. Let everything simmer for another couple of minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the soup is thickened.
Enjoy your comforting lasagna soup with fresh basil on top for a burst of flavor!
Final Thoughts
While you may have enjoyed every step of creating your Lasagna Soup, the real joy comes when you take your first bite. The rich flavors, the comforting warmth, and the delightful textures blend together to create a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Don't forget to share this deliciousness with family or friends; their smiles will be just as rewarding.
Remember, this recipe is versatile, so feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or dietary preferences.
Whether you're enjoying it for a cozy dinner or meal prepping for the week, Lasagna Soup is sure to satisfy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Lasagna Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make lasagna soup ahead of time! Just prepare it as usual, cool it completely, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
When you're ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on the stove.
If you plan to freeze it, consider leaving out any pasta until you're ready to serve, as it can become mushy.
This way, you'll have a delicious meal ready to go when you need it!
What Can I Substitute for Ricotta Cheese?
If you need a substitute for ricotta cheese, you've got some tasty options.
You can use cottage cheese blended until smooth for a similar texture. Cream cheese thinned with a bit of milk or yogurt can work too.
For a dairy-free option, try silken tofu mixed with lemon juice and a pinch of salt.
Each choice brings a unique flavor, so pick one that suits your dish best! Enjoy experimenting!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, let them cool down to room temperature first.
Then, transfer your food into airtight containers to keep it fresh. You can refrigerate it for up to three to four days.
If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it—just make sure to use freezer-safe containers.
When you're ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Enjoy your meal!
Is Lasagna Soup Gluten-Free?
Yes, lasagna soup can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free pasta or omit the pasta altogether.
You'll want to check the labels on any broth, sauces, or additional ingredients, as they may contain gluten.
Consider using zucchini noodles or other alternatives if you're looking to keep it low-carb.
Can I Freeze Lasagna Soup?
Yes, you can freeze lasagna soup!
Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag.
It's best to portion it out for easy reheating later.
When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Arf, an author and an innovative enthusiast of coffee, coffee alternatives, and tea, plays a crucial role as a contributor to the esteemed Cappuccino Oracle platform. Renowned for his curiosity and passion for these captivating beverages, Arf has carved out a unique space for himself in the world of exploration and writing. He realized that coffee, coffee alternatives, and tea are not mere drinks to keep one awake, but universes of flavors and stories waiting to be explored.
