As I stirred the bubbling pot on the stove, the savory aroma of garlic and herbs filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy Italian trattoria. This Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup captures all the beloved flavors of classic lasagna, but in a comforting, slurpable form. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is not only quick to prepare—ready in just 30 minutes—but also a family-friendly favorite that will please even the pickiest eaters. With its creamy texture and hearty ingredients warming you from the inside out, this one-pot wonder is the ultimate comfort food solution on those chilly evenings. Are you ready to dive into a bowl of pure deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!
Why is Lasagna Soup so popular?
Comforting, Familiar Flavors: This Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup delivers all the classic tastes of lasagna in a cozy soup format that feels like a warm hug.
Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Family-Friendly Appeal: Picky eaters will love its creamy, cheesy goodness, making it an instant hit for dinner tables.
Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer stovetop, Instant Pot, or slow cooker, this recipe adapts perfectly to your cooking style.
Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and hearty ingredients, this soup is a complete meal that keeps everyone full and satisfied.
Pair it with some garlic bread or a fresh salad like Kale Caesar Salad for a complete dining experience!
Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup Ingredients
Get ready to create a comforting one-pot meal!
For the Soup Base
- Olive Oil – For sautéing the onions, adding richness. Substitutes include vegetable oil or butter.
- Onion – Provides a base flavor. Use shallots for a milder taste.
- Ground Beef (80/20) – Adds protein and richness. Can swap with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for lighter options.
- Garlic (minced) – Enhances flavor with aromatic notes. Fresh cloves or jarred minced garlic can be used.
- Dried Oregano – Brings authentic Italian flavor. Substitutes include dried basil or Italian herb mix.
- Tomato Paste – Provides depth of flavor and thickness. Can replace with crushed tomatoes if needed.
- Tomato Basil Pasta Sauce – Adds sweetness and complexity. Use any marinara sauce if unavailable.
- Diced Canned Tomatoes – Contributes texture and more tomato flavor. Fresh tomatoes can be used if cubed.
- Chicken Broth – Base liquid for the soup, adds flavor. Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
- Kosher Salt – For seasoning. Adjust as per dietary needs or dietary salt alternatives.
- Lasagna Noodles (Dried) – Provide the bulk of the dish. Swap with any short or long pasta, but avoid oven-ready types.
For the Creaminess
- Heavy Cream (optional) – Adds creaminess. Substitute with half-and-half or leave out for a lighter soup.
For the Toppings
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Topping for creaminess and flavor. Use any melting cheese as a substitute.
- Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated) – Adds sharp flavor. Block cheese can be grated at home for better flavor.
- Ricotta Cheese – For rich garnishing on top. Cottage cheese serves as a lighter alternative.
- Fresh Basil (finely chopped) – For a fresh finish and vibrant flavor. Dried basil can be a substitute, but fresh is recommended for best taste.
With these ingredients at hand, you’re one step closer to enjoying a bowl of Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup that your whole family will love!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup
Step 1: Sauté Onions
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add 1 diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This step lays the foundation of flavor for your Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add 1 pound of ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for about 7-8 minutes, stirring often until fully browned and no longer pink. Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic, a pinch of red pepper flakes, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Incorporate Tomato Ingredients
Mix in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, ensuring it’s well combined with the meat. Pour in 24 ounces of tomato basil pasta sauce and 14.5 ounces of diced canned tomatoes. Follow with 4 cups of chicken broth, stirring well to combine everything into a cohesive, flavorful mixture. Raise the heat and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Add Noodles
Once boiling, break 8-10 lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and add them to the pot. Stir to ensure the noodles are fully submerged. Season with kosher salt, then reduce the heat to low. Allow the soup to simmer for about 10-12 minutes, until the noodles are tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Stir in Cream
To add creaminess to your Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir everything together, mixing until smooth and creamy. If the soup appears too thick, feel free to add more broth until you reach your desired consistency. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Serve with Toppings
Ladle the hearty soup into bowls and top each serving with a generous dollop of ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella, and a dash of freshly grated parmesan. To finish, garnish with chopped fresh basil for a vibrant touch. Enjoy your comforting Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup!
Storage Tips for Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup without noodles in a heavy-duty freezer bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Noodle Separation: To avoid mushy pasta, store cooked noodles separately if you plan to freeze your soup. Add them fresh after reheating for the best texture.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore creaminess.
Expert Tips for Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup
-
Noodle Prep: Ensure lasagna noodles are broken into smaller pieces for even cooking. This avoids any chewy or undercooked pasta in your Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup!
-
Texture Control: If you like your soup thinner, simply add extra chicken broth after stirring in the cream. This way, you can achieve the perfect consistency that suits your family.
-
Storing Leftovers: Keep cooked noodles separate when saving leftovers to avoid mushy pasta. Store soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.
-
Flavor Boost: Don’t hesitate to customize flavors! Add sautéed vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or toss in some fresh herbs to elevate your dish.
-
Cheese Variations: Experiment with toppings! If you don’t have ricotta, cottage cheese or even cream cheese can make delicious alternatives.
Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative with this comforting soup, allowing your taste buds to guide you toward delicious alternatives!
-
Italian Sausage: Swap ground beef for Italian sausage to enhance flavor with a peppery, savory kick. This variation adds depth and an extra layer of comfort.
-
Vegetarian Delight: Go meatless by omitting the meat and using vegetable broth. Add hearty vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or even lentils for extra nutrition.
-
Pasta Twist: If lasagna noodles are unavailable, use any pasta shape you love, such as penne or fusilli. It will give a fun texture that kids will enjoy!
-
Extra Creamy: For an indulgent experience, increase the heavy cream or substitute with mascarpone cheese. It’s incredibly rich and makes every spoonful heavenly.
-
Spicy Kick: Craving some heat? Increase the red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños for a fiery take. It pairs perfectly with the creamy base.
-
Fresh Vegetable Boost: Add in fresh veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for a pop of color and flavor. They blend wonderfully into the rich soup, making it even heartier.
-
Savory Pesto: Stir in a few tablespoons of pesto sauce before serving for an aromatic twist. It adds a delightful herbaceous flavor that screams Italian.
-
Cheese Explosion: Top with a variety of cheeses like gouda or fontina for an ooey-gooey experience. Mixing cheeses elevates the flavor profile to a whole new level.
Pair your variations with a fresh side like a Kale Caesar Salad to create a meal bursting with flavor and joy!
What to Serve with Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup?
The comforting warmth of lasagna soup deserves delightful partners to round out your meal.
-
Garlic Bread:
A crunchy, buttery accompaniment that pairs perfectly with the creamy soup, inviting you to scoop up every last drop. -
Kale Caesar Salad:
This fresh salad adds a crisp contrast, balancing the richness of the soup with its zesty dressing and crunchy croutons. -
Roasted Vegetables:
Caramelized carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers bring a burst of flavor and nutrition, complementing the hearty lasagna soup beautifully. -
Parmesan Crisp:
Some baked parmesan crisps offer a crispy yet savory bite, enhancing the cheesy goodness of the soup and adding delightful texture. -
Lite Italian Sparkling Water:
Sip on sparkling water infused with lemon or lime for a refreshing cleanse between bites, adding a touch of Italy to your dinner table. -
Chocolate Lava Cake:
For dessert, indulge in rich chocolate lava cake. Its warm, gooey center provides a decadent finish to the meal, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can chop your onions, mince the garlic, and even brown the ground beef up to 24 hours in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their flavor. Additionally, feel free to measure out your dry ingredients, like the pasta and seasonings, for quick assembly later. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat everything in a pot, stir in the broth and remaining ingredients, then simmer until the noodles are tender. This way, you’ll enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort on those hectic weeknights!
Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe and fresh ingredients for my soup?
Absolutely! Choose fresh vegetables with no blemishes—onions should feel firm and have a smooth skin. For tomatoes, look for ripe ones that are plump and fragrant. When selecting ground beef, opt for 80/20 which gives the best balance of flavor and moisture. Always check for a bright red color with no brown spots. If using canned tomatoes, ensure the can is not dented and check the expiration date.
What is the best way to store leftovers of Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup?
Very! Store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure it has cooled down before sealing. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing it—just remember to keep the noodles separate for the best texture. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until bubbly and warm throughout.
Can I freeze Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then spoon it into a heavy-duty freezer bag or airtight container—just remember to omit the noodles. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and add fresh cooked noodles when ready to enjoy for that perfect texture!
What should I do if my soup is too thick or too thin?
If you find your soup too thick after adding cream, it’s easy to rescue! Add in chicken broth, a little at a time, stirring until you reach your desired consistency. For a soupy texture, aim for a gentle simmer while you adjust, and remember, it’s always better to go slow and add gradually.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! For those with dietary restrictions, this Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup can be made gluten-free by substituting gluten-free lasagna noodles. You can also make it vegetarian by swapping ground beef for plant-based crumbles and using vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. Additionally, if you have lactose sensitivities, consider using lactose-free cream or omitting it altogether.
How can I ensure the lasagna noodles are cooked perfectly in the soup?
To help your lasagna noodles cook evenly, break them into smaller pieces (around 2-3 inches) and make sure they’re fully submerged in the broth during cooking. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking. Simmer the soup until the noodles are just tender—this typically takes about 10-12 minutes as you stir everything together. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
Satisfying Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup Your Family Will Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add 1 diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Add 1 pound of ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for about 7-8 minutes, stirring often until fully browned and no longer pink. Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic, a pinch of red pepper flakes, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Mix in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, ensuring it's well combined with the meat. Pour in 24 ounces of tomato basil pasta sauce and 14.5 ounces of diced canned tomatoes. Follow with 4 cups of chicken broth, stirring well to combine everything into a cohesive, flavorful mixture. Raise the heat and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, break 8-10 lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and add them to the pot. Stir to ensure the noodles are fully submerged. Season with kosher salt, then reduce the heat to low. Allow the soup to simmer for about 10-12 minutes, until the noodles are tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
- To add creaminess to your Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir everything together, mixing until smooth and creamy. If the soup appears too thick, feel free to add more broth until you reach your desired consistency. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Ladle the hearty soup into bowls and top each serving with a generous dollop of ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella, and a dash of freshly grated parmesan. To finish, garnish with chopped fresh basil for a vibrant touch.
Leave a Reply