Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, you’ve come to the right place! This Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup is not just delicious; it’s a family favorite that brings everyone together around the table. With its rich blend of flavors, it captures all the comforting goodness of traditional lasagna but in a delightful soup form that can be ready in just 40 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this soup is one you’ll want to make again and again.

Imagine the aroma of garlic and herbs wafting through your kitchen while this soup simmers away. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or hosting friends, it’s always a hit. So grab your pot and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Family-friendly: The creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it a sure win for even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-ahead convenience: This soup is perfect for meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day!
• Customizable: You can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or whatever you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome ingredients that create magic in your bowl. Let’s dive into what you need:

For the Soup 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
• 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 Creamy Finish

• 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)

Variations

One of the best things about this Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your taste or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make it vegan: Substitute beef with lentils or plant-based ground meat and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or even some chopped jalapeños!

How to Make Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the finely diced onion and cook until it’s soft and fragrant. This step is crucial as sautéing releases natural sweetness from the onions. Once they’re softened, add the ground beef and sauté until browned all over. Stir in the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, oregano, and tomato paste. This blend forms a flavorful base for your soup!

Step 2: Build Your Soup Base

Next, stir in the tomato sauce, diced canned tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil before adding those broken lasagna noodles into the pot. Remember to season with the remaining salt! Reduce heat and let it simmer until those noodles are tender—this will take about 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Cream It Up!

Once the noodles are cooked just right, stir in the heavy cream for that luscious texture! If you prefer your soup on the thinner side, feel free to add an extra cup or two of chicken broth at this point. A little pro tip: stirring shredded mozzarella directly into the soup makes it even creamier!

Step 4: Serve with Love

Spoon this delightful lasagna soup into bowls and top each serving with dollops of ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, freshly grated parmesan cheese, and sprinkle with chopped basil. Serve hot and enjoy every comforting spoonful!

This Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup will surely become one of your go-to recipes for any occasion!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup

Making this lasagna soup is a breeze, but here are some tips to take it from good to great!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality canned tomatoes can significantly elevate the flavors. Fresh basil adds a vibrant taste, while quality tomatoes provide a deeper, richer base for your soup.

• Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of chicken broth slightly or add more lasagna noodles. For a thinner soup, feel free to add extra broth until you reach your desired consistency.

• Make Ahead: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can prepare it ahead of time and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve. The flavors often improve after a day in the fridge!

• Experiment with Cheeses: While mozzarella and parmesan are traditional, feel free to mix in other cheeses like gouda or fontina for added flavor. Each cheese brings its unique twist to the dish!

• Customize Your Protein: For a healthier version, you can swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Alternatively, use plant-based meat crumbles for a vegetarian option that still packs a punch.

How to Serve Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup

This Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup is not only delicious but also visually appealing! Present it in stylish bowls with an array of garnishes and side dishes for an inviting meal.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of finely chopped fresh basil on top adds color and enhances the Italian flavors.
• Extra Cheese: A dollop of ricotta cheese or an extra sprinkle of mozzarella creates a creamy finish that your family will love.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a kick, offering red pepper flakes on the side allows everyone to customize their spice level.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of this creamy soup. Simply spread butter mixed with minced garlic on slices of bread and toast until golden brown.

• Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad with crunchy romaine lettuce and tangy dressing complements the richness of the soup. It adds freshness and balances out the meal beautifully.

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots brings additional flavors and nutrients to your table while being easy to prepare alongside your soup.

• Caprese Skewers: These simple skewers made with cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls (or plant-based alternatives), and basil leaves drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing bite that pairs excellently with lasagna soup.

Now that you have all these tips and serving ideas, you’re ready to impress your family or guests with this comforting bowl of Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste amazing, but it also stores well, making it a great option for busy weeknights. Here’s how to handle leftovers and keep your soup fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If you want to enjoy it later, consider portioning it out into smaller containers.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for best results.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months; just be sure to label the containers with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave on defrost setting.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through; add extra broth if needed to reach desired consistency.
• Stir well before serving, and enjoy your delicious lasagna soup again!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe.

Can I make Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with your favorite plant-based protein or even mushrooms for that hearty texture. Just ensure you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How long does Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup lasts about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I make Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup in advance?

Yes! This soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freeze portions for later use.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream.

Final Thoughts

Making this Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup is not just about enjoying a delicious meal; it’s about creating moments of warmth and comfort in your kitchen. I hope you find joy in preparing this recipe as much as I do! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a simple weeknight treat, this lasagna soup is sure to please everyone at the table. Happy cooking, and enjoy every creamy spoonful!