You know that warm, cheesy, bubbling lasagna that makes your whole kitchen smell like heaven? Imagine all that deliciousness — but in a bowl.
That’s what Lasagna Soup is. I came up with this recipe one chilly evening when I was too lazy to layer noodles, sauce, and cheese (we’ve all been there, right?).
I just wanted all the flavor of lasagna without all the fuss. And let me tell you — this bowl delivers. It’s hearty, cozy, and perfect for lazy nights or feeding a crowd.
Why You’ll Love This Lasagna Soup
If you love lasagna, you’re going to fall head over spoon for this soup. It’s rich, creamy, and cheesy — all the things you want from lasagna, but quicker.
Here’s why it’s going to win you over:
- You can make it in one pot. No stacking or baking needed.
- It’s ready in 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
- It tastes just like lasagna, maybe even better.
- You can easily customize it — add sausage, chicken, veggies, or even go meatless.
Basically, it’s comfort food made simple.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about what goes into this magic bowl. Don’t worry, nothing fancy — just simple pantry staples:
- Olive oil – for sautéing and that touch of flavor.
- Ground beef or Italian sausage – adds that meaty depth we love in lasagna.
- Onion & garlic – the flavor base.
- Tomato paste – gives the soup richness.
- Crushed tomatoes – the main body of the broth.
- Beef broth – brings everything together and keeps it soupy.
- Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper – your flavor boosters.
- Lasagna noodles – broken into bite-sized pieces.
- Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese – the holy trinity of lasagna.
Optional but amazing: a sprinkle of red chili flakes or fresh basil on top.
How to Make Lasagna Soup
This part’s fun and super easy — no layers, no oven, no stress. Just a pot and a little stirring.
Step 1: Sauté the Meat and Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot. Toss in your ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Add onion and garlic and let them cook until they’re soft and fragrant. That smell? That’s your first sign of something delicious coming.
Step 2: Add the Tomato Goodness
Stir in tomato paste, then pour in crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Give it all a good stir. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes — this helps deepen the flavor, making it rich like classic lasagna sauce.
Step 3: Drop in the Noodles
Now break your lasagna noodles into smaller pieces (I just snap them with my hands). Add them straight to the pot. They’ll cook right in the soup, soaking up all that flavorful broth. Stir occasionally so they don’t stick.
Tips to Make It Perfect Every Time
- Don’t overcook the noodles. They’ll keep softening as the soup sits.
- Add more broth if the soup thickens too much — it’s all about that perfect soupy texture.
- Use sausage if you want extra flavor — it makes a big difference.
- Add spinach or zucchini if you want to sneak in some veggies.
And most importantly — always taste before serving. A little extra salt or cheese can make everything sing.
What to Serve with Lasagna Soup
This soup is already filling, but a few sides can make it feel like a full Italian feast:
- Garlic bread (because dunking is mandatory).
- Caesar salad for freshness.
- Grilled veggies if you want something light on the side.
Or honestly, just a big spoon and some stretchy sweatpants — that’s all you really need.
How to Store and Reheat
You’re going to want leftovers — trust me.
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze without the cheese topping for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
Variations to Try
This recipe is flexible — make it your own!
- Chicken Lasagna Soup: Swap ground beef for shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add mushrooms, bell peppers, or lentils.
- Spicy Kick: Add red chili flakes or spicy sausage.
- Creamy Dreamy Version: Stir in a splash of cream or milk at the end for a silky finish.
Why This Soup Hits Different
It’s more than just soup — it’s nostalgia in a bowl. Every spoonful tastes like Sunday dinner, but without the hours in the kitchen.
It’s the kind of meal that makes you slow down, take a deep breath, and smile after the first bite. It’s hearty, cheesy, and feels like a hug from the inside out.
FAQs About Lasagna Soup
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the base (without noodles) ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, heat it up and add noodles fresh — this keeps them from getting too soft.
2. Can I use other pasta instead of lasagna noodles?
Absolutely. Penne, rotini, or bow-tie pasta all work great if that’s what you have.
3. Is this soup spicy?
Not by default, but you can add spice with red chili flakes or spicy sausage if you like heat.
4. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese altogether. The tomato broth is still flavorful enough to stand on its own.
5. How can I make it more filling?
Add beans, extra veggies, or serve with a side of buttery garlic bread. That’ll keep you full and happy.
