Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup

This Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup is a delightful twist on the classic lasagna, bringing all its rich flavors into a comforting soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, looking for a quick weeknight meal, or need something hearty for a chilly day, this recipe has you covered. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll have a delicious bowl of soup ready in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Convenient: Prepare this Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Picky-Eater Approved: The familiar flavors of lasagna make this soup appealing to everyone, including kids!
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main course, or serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of cheeses and cream ensures each spoonful is comforting and satisfying.
• Customizable Ingredients: Easily swap in your favorite vegetables or protein to match your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup recipe, gather your kitchen tools for smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking the soup evenly and holding all your ingredients comfortably.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring even mixing of flavors.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make the Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup:

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion (finely diced)
• 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

For the Liquid Mix

• 25 ounces tomato basil pasta sauce
• 28 ounces diced canned tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken broth (more if you want a thinner soup)
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt (divided or more to taste)

For the Noodles and Creaminess

• 12 lasagna noodles (uncooked and broken into 2 pieces)
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• 6 tbsp fresh basil (finely chopped)

How to Make Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook until soft. Then add the ground beef; sauté until browned. Stir in minced garlic, red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, oregano, and tomato paste until well combined.

Step 2: Combine the Sauces

Add the tomato sauce, diced canned tomatoes, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, add broken lasagna noodles. Stir in the remaining 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or more to taste), then reduce heat to let it simmer until noodles are tender.

Step 3: Add Creaminess

Stir in heavy cream if using. You can add an extra cup or two of chicken broth if you prefer a thinner soup texture. For an extra cheesy experience, stir shredded mozzarella or parmesan into the soup.

Step 4: Serve with Toppings

Ladle the lasagna soup into bowls. Top each serving with ricotta cheese, additional mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, and freshly chopped basil. Enjoy every bite!

This Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup is sure to become a favorite in your household!

How to Serve Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup

This Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal with family, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Pairing this soup with warm, crusty bread makes for a perfect combination. The bread can be used to soak up the rich, creamy broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing your soup with fresh basil or parsley adds a burst of flavor and color. It enhances the dish’s presentation and freshness.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• A light salad, such as a Caesar or mixed greens, complements the richness of the soup. It provides a refreshing contrast that balances the meal.

In Individual Bowls

• Serving the soup in individual bowls can make it feel more special and elegant. Personalizing each bowl allows for unique toppings per guest.

With Extra Cheese on Top

• For cheese lovers, adding extra mozzarella or parmesan on top just before serving creates an indulgent finish. Melted cheese brings a comforting touch.

As a Make-Your-Own Station

• Set up a toppings station with options like ricotta, shredded cheese, and fresh herbs. Guests can customize their bowls according to their preferences.

How to Perfect Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup

To ensure your Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality tomatoes enhance the flavor of your soup significantly. Opt for organic produce when possible.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook! Adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference to achieve the best flavor balance.

• Control Consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, add more chicken broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

• Cook Noodles Properly: Keep an eye on the lasagna noodles to avoid overcooking them. They should be tender but still hold their shape.

• Incorporate Variations: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and texture. This will make the dish even heartier.

• Store Leftovers Wisely: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop while adding more broth if needed.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup

Complement your Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup with these delightful side dishes that enhance the overall meal experience.

1. Garlic Bread: This classic side is easy to prepare by spreading butter and minced garlic on slices of baguette before baking until golden.

2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offers a refreshing taste that pairs wonderfully with the soup.

3. Stuffed Peppers: Filled with rice, spices, and vegetables, stuffing bell peppers adds nutritious value while keeping with Italian flavors.

4. Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies grilled to perfection adds smoky flavors and complements the creamy lasagna soup well.

5. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese provides a comforting side that’s also gluten-free and pairs beautifully with rich soups.

6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses creates an inviting appetizer spread that guests will love before diving into their soup.

7. Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil on toasted bread creates a crunchy bite that enhances your meal’s texture.

8. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs serve as a hearty side dish that complements the rich flavors of the soup perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you create the best Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Using too much salt: Too much salt can overpower the flavors. Start with the recommended amount and adjust according to your taste.
• Not breaking the noodles correctly: If the lasagna noodles are not broken into smaller pieces, they may not cook evenly. Aim for 2-inch pieces for best results.
• Skipping the cream: Omitting heavy cream will make your soup less creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider using a smaller amount or a suitable substitute.
• Overcooking the noodles: Cooking lasagna noodles for too long can make them mushy. Keep an eye on them and remove from heat once tender.
• Ignoring freshness of herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh can change the flavor profile. Try to use fresh basil when possible for a more vibrant taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in the container as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Microwave on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a pot, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup.

Can I make Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Just follow the same steps but combine all ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or coconut milk as lighter alternatives that still provide creaminess.

How do I thicken my Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup?

If your soup is too thin, add an extra tablespoon of tomato paste or simmer it uncovered to reduce it further.

Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or lamb works well if you prefer those over beef.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup is not only quick and easy but also offers comforting flavors that everyone will love. Feel free to customize it with different meats, vegetables, or even pasta shapes based on what you have on hand. Give it a try today!