Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup

Oh, friends, let me take you back to a crisp autumn evening when my kitchen transformed into a cozy haven. The aroma of garlic and simmering tomatoes wafted through the air like a warm hug, wrapping around me as I set out to create a dish that would warm our hearts and bellies. That night, I stood over the pot, stirring what would become my family’s favorite – Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup!

With each bubbling stir, I could already taste the rich, velvety goodness that would soon fill our bowls. The flavors of tangy marinara paired with the creaminess of ricotta made me feel as if I had struck gold in my own kitchen. The thrill of discovery struck, and I hurriedly jotted down the recipe, eager to share this delightful dish with all of you. Believe me when I say – you’ll fall in love with this comforting meal too! It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both luscious and hearty, all while bringing the warmth and love of traditional lasagna into a cozy, spoonable form.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This soup comes together in a flash, making weeknight cooking a breeze!
• One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup. Just one pot to wash!
• Hearty & Filling: With protein-rich ground meat, creamy layers, and tender noodles, this soup satisfies the soul.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for families or gatherings, it’s a hit for both adults and kids alike!
• Comforting & Cozy: It wraps you like a warm blanket on chilly days, offering all the comforting flavors of lasagna.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For a lovely base of flavor. If you have extra virgin, use it for a richer taste!
• 1 pound lean ground beef or ground turkey: Choose whichever you prefer! Lean meats give you that delicious umami without the extra fat.
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced: Adds sweetness and depth. Make sure to chop it finely so it melts into the soup!
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Because garlic makes everything better! The aroma will dance throughout your kitchen.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of flavors that brings a little Italian bistro to your home cooking.
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little kick! Adjust to your spice preference.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors. Adjust if you’re watching your sodium intake.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: To balance the dish with a hint of warmth.
• 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce: A shortcut to rich flavor! Choose a brand you love or make your own.
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps it light yet savory. Use homemade if you have some for extra flavor points!
• 1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Adds depth and a fresh, tangy taste.
• 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces: The heart of the dish! Break them into rustic chunks for a delightful texture.
• ½ cup heavy cream: Creates that luscious creaminess that takes this soup to a whole new level!
• ½ cup ricotta cheese: Adds richness and a hint of sweetness. Feel free to dollop some on top when you serve!
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: The melty goodness that binds it all together. Use fresh for a stringy, decadent finish.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: A final touch of salty richness.
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped: Adds a burst of freshness. What’s not to love about fresh herbs?
• Extra Parmesan cheese for topping: Always a good idea!

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss in your ground beef or turkey, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until it’s browned and delicious. Let those savory aromas fill your kitchen! Drain any excess fat, but keep about a tablespoon for flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the diced onion and let it cook until it’s translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes. Oh, and the smell! Then, stir in the minced garlic and let it sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Take a big breath and soak it all in!

Step 3: Build the Base

Now, it’s time to add your Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir it all together, then pour in the marinara sauce, chicken broth, and crushed tomatoes. Mix it well, and bring this beautiful blend to a gentle boil!

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Reduce the heat to medium-low and allow the soup to simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes. This step deepens all those fabulous flavors – trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Step 5: Cook the Noodles

Once your soup is simmering nicely, add the broken lasagna noodles directly to the pot. Cook until they’re tender, about 10-12 minutes, and stir occasionally. If it becomes too thick, feel free to add a splash more broth.

Step 6: Make It Creamy

Now for the magic! Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything melts and the soup becomes irresistibly creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning to your liking.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Ladle your beautifully rich soup into bowls, and don’t skip the garnish! Top with fresh basil or parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan. Serve hot with some garlic bread or a crisp side salad. You’re ready for cozy dinner bliss!

Pro Tips for Success

• Use a mix of cheeses (like Asiago or provolone) for a unique flavor twist!
• Feel free to add more veggies! Spinach or mushrooms would add both nutrition and taste.
• Don’t rush the simmering process; let those flavors develop for a richer taste.

Flavor Variations

• Seasonal twists: Try adding butternut squash or zucchini for a seasonal flavor kick!
• Protein swap: Ground sausage or even lentils for a vegetarian version would be delightful!
• Spice it up: Add more crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce for an extra zing.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this comforting soup with a slice of garlic bread, a light salad, or even some crusty baguette. Consider serving it in rustic bowls for a charming presentation. Perfect with a glass of red wine or a sparkling lemon soda on the side.

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can prep components ahead of time! Cook the soup through simmering, then chill it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove and stir in the dairy just before serving.

Leftovers

Turn leftover soup into a pasta bake! Spread it in a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until golden and bubbly.

Freezing

Yes, this soup can be frozen! Just let it cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags. Be sure to label with the date. It can keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw in the fridge overnight.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, or gently warm in the microwave in short bursts, stirring often. Add a splash of broth or water to loosen it if needed.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the meat for lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.

Can I use fresh lasagna noodles?
Yes, just keep in mind they may need a shorter cooking time!

How can I make this soup dairy-free?
You can use a plant-based cream alternative and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

What can I add for extra nutrition?
Toss in some spinach or kale right before serving for a boost of greens!

Final Thoughts

Friends, this Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup is not just a recipe; it’s a cozy embrace in a bowl, perfect for any gathering or family dinner. Whether you’re curling up on the couch or hosting a gathering, this soup will forever have a place in your heart – and your recipe collection. So gather your loved ones, ladle out those warm bowls, and dig in! I can’t wait to hear how much you love it! Stay cozy, and happy cooking!

Print