Introduction

There are few things more comforting than a warm bowl of soup on a chilly evening. As the winds whip outside, the smell of garlic and tomatoes wafts through your kitchen, wrapping you in a cozy embrace. Today, I want to share a recipe that transforms the traditional lasagna into an easy, heartwarming dish: Cheesy Lasagna Soup. This recipe has become a staple in our home, and I know it will soon find a place in yours too. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or seeking a quick weeknight meal, this cheesy universe of flavors will bring joy and satisfaction to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Lasagna Soup is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and memories. Here are some reasons you’ll adore making this dish:

Comfort in a Bowl: The rich, cheesy goodness brings that nostalgic feeling of a cozy family gathering.
Flavor Explosion: With layers of spices, melted cheese, and hearty pasta, every spoonful is a delight.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner solution.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will slurp away happily, making clean-up a breeze!
Versatile Dish: Customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins for a fun twist.
Healthy Option: This recipe can be modified to include lean meats or gluten-free pasta.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Cheesy Lasagna Soup:

Ground Beef or Italian Sausage (1 pound) – Adds a savory depth.
Onion (1 medium, chopped) – For sweetness and aroma.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – A must for that indescribable flavor.
Crushed Tomatoes (28 ounces) – The base of our soup, tangy and rich.
Chicken Broth (4 cups) – To give the soup its comforting liquid gold.
Lasagna Noodles (8 ounces, broken into pieces) – The heart of the dish; gluten-free options can be used.
Ricotta Cheese (1 cup) – Creamy texture that elevates the soup.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups) – The ultimate melty goodness.
Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated) – For a nutty finish.
Italian Seasoning (2 teaspoons) – Brings all the cozy flavors together.
Salt and Pepper (to taste) – Essential for seasoning.

Substitutions: You can easily swap in ground turkey for a lighter option or omit meat for a vegetarian delight. Instead of ricotta, try cottage cheese for a lower-fat version.

Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

This Cheesy Lasagna Soup will be ready faster than takeout, bringing a homemade touch to your table without the stress.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté: In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent — about 3-4 minutes. Your kitchen will smell amazing at this point!
Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef (or sausage) to the pot, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Let it simmer for a moment, while the anticipation builds.
Season: Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
Noodles in: Add your broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 10 minutes, until the noodles are tender.
Cheesy Finish: Once noodles are cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until everything is wonderfully melted and ooey-gooey.
Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the Cheesy Lasagna Soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh basil if desired. Grab a spoon, and dig in!

Tips and Variations

Veggie Delight: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for a nutrient boost.
Extra Spice: If you love heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mix.
Herb Infusion: Fresh basil or oregano can replace dried for a garden-fresh flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles for a healthier twist.

Serving Suggestions

This comforting soup is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with a warm, crusty baguette or a simple side salad. Enjoy it with a glass of red wine or sparkling water to complete the meal. Perfect for a cozy Sunday dinner or a festive gathering, this dish will definitely impress.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely and place it in an airtight container; it’ll hold up well for 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding a splash of broth to loosen the soup if needed.

Pro Tips from the Kitchen

Cheese Lovers: Use a blend of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano for a gourmet flavor.
Pre-Chop: Pre-chop your ingredients on weekends to save time during the week.
Make it Saucy: For a thinner soup, add more broth according to your preference.
Cheese Layering: Consider sprinkling extra cheese on top and broiling for a bubbly crust.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! Replace the meat with plant-based crumbles and use vegan cheese for a delicious vegan version.
What can I use instead of ricotta?
Cottage cheese works well, or you can create a cashew cheese blend for a nutty alternative.
Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It holds up nicely in the fridge and reheats well, making it a perfect choice for meal prep.

Conclusion

As you gather with loved ones around a steaming bowl of Cheesy Lasagna Soup, you’ll not only savor the warmth of the flavors but also the memories you’ll create together. Cooking this dish brings out the joy of home and family, making it an essential part of your culinary repertoire. So grab your spoon, invite your favorite people, and let this soup become a new tradition in your home. I can’t wait for you to experience the bliss that comes with each comforting bite! Share your moments with us and let’s spread the joy of cooking together. Happy eating!

Contents

1 Cheesy Lasagna Soup

Cheesy Lasagna Soup

A comforting and easy lasagna soup that combines rich flavors and cheesy goodness, perfect for a family meal.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Course Main Course, Soup

Cuisine Italian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

Protein

1 pound Ground Beef or Italian Sausage Adds a savory depth.

Vegetables

1 medium Onion, chopped For sweetness and aroma.
3 cloves Garlic, minced A must for that indescribable flavor.

Soup Base

28 ounces Crushed Tomatoes The base of our soup, tangy and rich.
4 cups Chicken Broth To give the soup its comforting liquid gold.

Pasta

8 ounces Lasagna Noodles, broken into pieces Gluten-free options can be used.

Cheeses

1 cup Ricotta Cheese Creamy texture that elevates the soup.
2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese The ultimate melty goodness.
1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated For a nutty finish.

Seasonings

2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning Brings all the cozy flavors together.
to taste Salt and Pepper Essential for seasoning.

Instructions

Preparation

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent — about 3-4 minutes.
Add the ground beef (or sausage) to the pot, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Cooking

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Let it simmer for a moment.
Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
Add your broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Cook according to package instructions, about 10 minutes, until the noodles are tender.
Once noodles are cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until everything is wonderfully melted.

Serving

Ladle the Cheesy Lasagna Soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

For a veggie option, add spinach or kale during the last few minutes. Add red pepper flakes for extra spice. Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for healthier choice.

Keyword Cheesy Soup, Comfort Food, Easy Recipe, Lasagna Soup, Quick Dinner