This Tomato Basil Lasagna Soup is warm, cozy, and super tasty! It combines rich tomato flavor with pasta and fresh basil, all in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!
If you’re like me and love cheese, you’ll be delighted to see heaps of melty mozzarella on top. It’s comfort food in a bowl, perfect for any chilly day or family dinner! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fats and flavor. You can substitute it with avocado oil or canola oil if needed, but I love the flavor olive oil brings to this soup.
Onion: Yellow onions work great for their sweetness. If you’re out, white onions or shallots can be used. For a milder flavor, green onions are also a fun option!
Crushed Tomatoes: They provide the base of the soup. If fresh tomatoes are in season, you can use chopped fresh tomatoes instead. Just cook them down a bit longer.
Basil: Fresh basil gives this soup its signature flavor. If you can’t find it, use 1 teaspoon of dried basil, but fresh is definitely my first choice!
Lasagna Noodles: Break regular lasagna noodles or use other pasta shapes like rigatoni or penne. Gluten-free pasta also works if you’re avoiding gluten.
Cheeses: I love the creaminess of ricotta and the meltiness of mozzarella. You can also use cottage cheese for a lighter option. Feel free to skip the cheeses if you’re dairy-free!
How Do I Avoid Overcooking the Lasagna Noodles?
The timing for cooking the lasagna noodles is key to keeping them perfectly al dente. They will continue to cook after being added to the soup, so it’s important to keep an eye on them.
- Check the noodles frequently after adding them to the soup.
- Cook them until just tender, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
- Once they’re cooked, remove the pot from the heat right away to prevent mushiness.
Enjoy the perfect texture in each delicious spoonful of soup!
How to Make Tomato Basil Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into bite-size pieces (or use broken lasagna-shaped pasta)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Tomato Basil Lasagna Soup takes about 30 minutes to prepare, including cooking time. It’s a quick and hearty meal, perfect for busy evenings or cozy weekends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. This will make your kitchen smell wonderful! Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
2. Build the Soup Base:
Pour the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth into the pot. Stir in the dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if you’re feeling spicy), and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a gentle boil.
3. Simmer and Cook the Noodles:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes to blend all the delicious flavors together. After that, add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Cook for another 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender, stirring occasionally to prevent them from sticking together.
4. Finish with Fresh Basil:
Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the fresh basil leaves. It adds a burst of fresh flavor! Remove the pot from the heat.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, it’s time to serve! Ladle the soup into bowls and top each one with a dollop of ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella, and some grated Parmesan cheese. If you have extra fresh basil, chop some up to sprinkle on top for garnish. Enjoy your cozy, cheesy lasagna-inspired soup!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta in This Soup?
Absolutely! Just make sure to check the cooking time on the gluten-free pasta, as it may vary from regular lasagna noodles. Follow the package instructions to ensure perfect texture!
How Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to mix in your favorite veggies! Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms would all be fantastic additions. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic for added flavor!
Is This Soup Freezable?
You can freeze this soup, but it’s best to do so before adding the pasta and dairy. That way, the texture remains just right. Portion it out, and it should last for up to 3 months in the freezer!
