This creamy Three-Cheese Lasagna Soup combines rich flavors of mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly nights!
Who knew lasagna could be a soup? I love how quick and fun it is to make. Just stir, simmer, and enjoy—no layering needed! You won’t be able to resist seconds. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A great base for cooking, but feel free to substitute it with vegetable oil or butter if that’s what you have on hand. Both work well to sauté the onions and garlic.
Ground Beef/Sausage: If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be used. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or mushrooms for a meaty texture.
Broth: Beef broth gives a rich flavor, but chicken or vegetable broth can also be a tasty option. Homemade broth enhances the soup’s taste even more if you have it available!
Lasagna Noodles: If you don’t have lasagna noodles, any short pasta like penne or rotini will do. You can even use gluten-free pasta if needed. Just check the cooking time!
Cheeses: I love using fresh ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan. However, cottage cheese can be a lighter alternative to ricotta, while cheddar adds a unique flavor instead of mozzarella.
How Do I Perfectly Cook the Noodles in Soup?
Cooking noodles in soup can be tricky. You don’t want them overcooked and mushy! Here are some tips:
- Always add the noodles when the soup is boiling. This helps them cook evenly.
- Check the package instructions for the exact cooking time. Start with 1-2 minutes less than recommended, as they’ll continue cooking in the hot soup.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking together. This is especially important with broken lasagna noodles.
- If you have leftovers, it’s best to store the noodles separately. They can soak up too much broth and become soggy.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked noodles ready to soak up all that delicious flavor!
How to Make Three-Cheese Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 4 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara or pasta sauce
- 1 cup water
- 6 ounces broken lasagna noodles (about 2 cups)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Cheese Topping:
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty soup will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making a total of around 35 minutes. It’s a quick, warm meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Now, add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until you can smell that delicious aroma filling your kitchen!
2. Brown the Meat:
Add the ground beef or Italian sausage to the pot. Cook while breaking up the meat with a spoon until it’s browned and no longer pink. Make sure to drain any excess fat for a healthier soup base.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Now it’s time for the flavorful part! Stir in the marinara sauce, broth, water, dried basil, and oregano. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the broken lasagna noodles, and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 8-10 minutes or until the noodles are tender.
4. Season the Soup:
Give your soup a taste and season it with salt and black pepper as needed. If you like a little spice, this is when to add those crushed red pepper flakes.
5. Serve It Up:
Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with a generous dollop of ricotta cheese, then sprinkle lots of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. If you love melted cheese, you can place the bowls under a broiler for 2-3 minutes to get that lovely brown finish—just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Before serving, garnish your soup with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Pair it with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side for dipping. Enjoy your warm and cheesy lasagna soup!
This Three-Cheese Lasagna Soup is sure to become a favorite in your home for its comfort and simplicity!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Noodles in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free alternatives. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the gluten-free pasta.
How Should I Store Leftover Soup?
Let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 3 months. Just note that the noodles may become softer after freezing and thawing.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian by using lentils, mushrooms, or cooked vegetables instead of meat. Just be sure to use vegetable broth and your favorite marinara sauce for flavor!
What Can I Serve with Lasagna Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a side salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread for dipping, to soak in that delicious cheesy goodness!