This Ground Beef Lasagna Soup is a cozy bowl of goodness! It has all the classic flavors of lasagna but in a warm, comforting soup form, perfect for chilly days.
The best part? You get to enjoy the cheesy goodness without all the layering. I love topping mine with extra cheese, because who doesn’t love a bit more cheese? 🧀
Making this soup is super easy. Just toss in the ingredients, let it simmer, and you’ll have dinner ready in no time. It’s a big hit with my family and sure to be with yours too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef gives the soup its hearty base. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can work just as well. For a vegetarian alternative, try using lentils or mushrooms—both add depth and protein.
Pasta: I love using broken lasagna noodles in this recipe for that classic lasagna feel. If you don’t have them, any short pasta like rotini or penne will also fit perfectly. For gluten-free options, choose gluten-free pasta brands that you enjoy.
Ricotta Cheese: This adds creaminess to the soup. If you’re looking for lighter options, cottage cheese can be a good substitute. Vegans can use cashew cream or a tofu ricotta for a plant-based twist.
Cheeses: I use mozzarella for that gooey texture and Parmesan for an extra kick. Feel free to switch up the cheeses; a mix of cheddar or provolone could be fantastic here!
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from Your Soup?
To develop rich flavors in your lasagna soup, focus on a couple of key steps:
- Brown the ground beef well; don’t rush this step! The caramelization adds a lot of depth.
- Cook the onions and garlic until they’re soft. This releases their natural sweetness, making your soup deliciously aromatic.
- Let the soup simmer after adding the broth and tomatoes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, so patience is key!
When it comes to serving, topping with fresh herbs like basil or parsley brightens up the flavors, making each bowl feel fresh and inviting!
Ground Beef Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (950ml) beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz/410g) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz/227g) tomato sauce
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 oz (170g) lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces (or rotini pasta)
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup (240g) ricotta cheese
- 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Ground Beef Lasagna Soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll be enjoying this hearty dish in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef. Cook it until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. If there’s extra fat in the pot, drain it off carefully.
2. Add Onions and Garlic:
Now, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together with the beef until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the Liquids and Seasonings:
Mix in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (don’t forget the juice!), tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Don’t forget a pinch of salt and pepper! Bring the mixture to a simmer—this is where the flavors start to meld.
4. Cook the Pasta:
Once it’s simmering, sprinkle in the broken lasagna noodles or rotini pasta. Check the package instructions for cooking time; it’s usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally so the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
5. Taste and Adjust:
After the pasta is tender, taste your soup. Adjust the seasonings if necessary to make sure it’s just right for you!
6. Serve with Toppings:
Ladle the warm soup into bowls. Top each bowl with a dollop of creamy ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella, and a touch of grated Parmesan. This is where the cheesy magic happens!
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finish it off with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley to add a lovely touch. Enjoy this warm, comforting lasagna soup that replicates the rich flavors you love!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you’re looking for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or mushrooms for added texture and protein.
What Pasta Can I Use Besides Lasagna Noodles?
You can easily swap lasagna noodles for any short pasta like rotini, penne, or fusilli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta package instructions!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens up too much!
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the soup up to the point of adding the pasta, then refrigerate it. When you’re ready to eat, just heat it up and add the pasta to cook it fresh for the best texture!
