This Cheesy Ground Beef Lasagna Soup is a warm and hearty dish that brings all the flavors of lasagna into a cozy bowl. It’s loaded with ground beef, cheesy goodness, and delicious pasta.
The best part? It’s like a hug in a bowl! I love how easy it is to make, and you can top it with even more cheese if you’re feeling extra cheesy. Who could say no to that? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is your main protein and adds richness to the soup. If you want a lighter option, consider using ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, use a plant-based meat substitute or lentils.
Onion: A small onion will add great flavor. If you’re short on onions, shallots or leeks can work in a pinch. For a milder taste, try using green onions.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings depth to the soup. If you don’t have fresh, use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder instead. Just remember, fresh is always best for flavor!
Diced Tomatoes: These are key for the soup’s base. If fresh tomatoes are in season, feel free to substitute them—just peel and chop. Canned tomatoes are also great, and using fire-roasted for a smoky flavor is my personal favorite.
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional lasagna noodles are perfect for this dish but broken up. If you have other types of pasta like fusilli or even gluten-free pasta, feel free to use them as substitutes!
How Do You Ensure the Perfect Flavor Balance in the Soup?
Creating a tasty soup is all about layering flavors. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with browning the ground beef well before adding the onion. This helps build flavor.
- Allow the onion to soften before adding garlic; this keeps the garlic from burning, which can create a bitter taste.
- Stir in the herbs after the tomatoes are added, as this helps release their oils and benefits flavor.
- Simmer the soup long enough for the flavors to meld—about 10 minutes is perfect!
- Always taste as you go. It helps you adjust seasoning and ensure the balance is just right. If it’s too acidic, a pinch of sugar can help!
These steps will set you up for a deliciously cozy soup that everyone will love. Enjoy making it!
Cheesy Ground Beef Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
Cheesy Components:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish
Time Needed
This Cheesy Ground Beef Lasagna Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. So, in just about 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, comforting dish ready to be enjoyed!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the ground beef over medium heat. Cook it until it’s fully browned and no pink remains, which will take about 5-7 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks—this will give you nice, crumbly beef.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Once the beef is cooked, add the finely chopped onion to the pot. Cook it for about 3-4 minutes until it softens. Then, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until it smells wonderful!
3. Build the Soup Base:
Add in the canned diced tomatoes with their juices, the tomato sauce, and the beef broth. Stir everything together so it’s well combined. This is where the flavors start to come alive!
4. Season It Up:
Sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if you like it spicy), and season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Mix well!
5. Bring It to a Boil:
Increase the heat to bring your soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This helps meld all the flavors together beautifully.
6. Add the Noodles:
Add your broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Let them cook until they are tender, which will take about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Make It Cheesy:
Once the noodles are cooked, turn off the heat. Stir in the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan. Keep stirring until everything is melted and creamy.
8. Serve It Up:
Ladle the soup into bowls, and finish it off by topping each bowl with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. You can never have enough cheese!
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve hot and enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite!
This soup takes all the goodness of lasagna and transforms it into a warm, inviting bowl. Perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings, and guaranteed to become a favorite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative. Just make sure to cook it completely the same way as you would the ground beef, and it’ll still be delicious!
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
You can swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute, or use lentils or mushrooms for added texture. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep the flavor rich and hearty.
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Yes, you can! Store the soup in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of broth or water, as it thickens over time.
What Can I Use Instead of Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta, you can use cottage cheese or cream cheese as a substitute. Just blend it until smooth before adding to the soup for a creamy consistency.