Italian Lasagna Soup
Introduction
Italian Lasagna Soup is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. It combines the rich flavors of traditional lasagna into a comforting, hearty soup. With all the familiar ingredients, this dish brings the taste of Italy right to your kitchen. Perfect for chilly nights or whenever you need a delicious meal, this soup is sure to please everyone around the table.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Italian Lasagna Soup is a great choice for several reasons. First, it’s easy to prepare, taking less time than traditional lasagna. Second, it’s filled with flavors that everyone loves, making it a hit at family dinners. Finally, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup. You can enjoy a warm bowl of comfort without too much hassle!
How to Make Italian Lasagna Soup
Making Italian Lasagna Soup is simple and straightforward. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 2 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Directions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until soft.
- Add ground beef or sausage, and cook until browned.
- Pour in the broth, crushed tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and add broken lasagna noodles. Simmer until noodles are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in the ricotta and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix until combined and heated through.
- Serve hot, topped with the remaining mozzarella cheese and fresh basil.
How to Serve Italian Lasagna Soup
Serve Italian Lasagna Soup hot in bowls. You can sprinkle some extra mozzarella cheese on top for added flavor. A sprinkle of fresh basil will enhance the dish and give it a beautiful touch. Pair it with some crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Italian Lasagna Soup
To store leftover Italian Lasagna Soup, let it cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
Tips to Make Italian Lasagna Soup
- Use a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage for extra flavor.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste. If you like more heat, you can add red pepper flakes.
Variation
You can make this soup vegetarian by replacing the meat with mushrooms or lentils. Use vegetable broth and skip the ricotta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative for a vegan option.
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup in the slow cooker?
Yes! You can sauté the onions and garlic first, then add all other ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
2. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute lasagna noodles with other pasta shapes, like penne or fusilli, but the cooking times may vary.
3. How can I make this soup creamier?
For a creamier texture, stir in a bit of heavy cream or more ricotta cheese before serving.
Enjoy making and savoring this delightful Italian Lasagna Soup!
Italian Lasagna Soup
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing
- 1 cup onion, chopped For flavor
- 3 cloves garlic, minced For aroma
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage Choose your preference for protein
For the Soup
- 2 cups chicken or beef broth Base of the soup
- 15 oz crushed tomatoes, canned For depth of flavor
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning For seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste To enhance flavors
- 8 pieces lasagna noodles, broken Use broken pieces for a rustic feel
- 1 cup ricotta cheese Adds creaminess
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese For topping and mixing
- Fresh basil for garnish Optional, for presentation
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until soft.
- Add ground beef or sausage, and cook until browned.
- Pour in the broth, crushed tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and add broken lasagna noodles. Simmer until noodles are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in the ricotta and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix until combined and heated through.
- Serve hot, topped with the remaining mozzarella cheese and fresh basil.
