This One-Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup is a comfy dish that brings all the flavors of lasagna into a warm, hearty bowl. It’s loaded with pasta, meat, and melty cheese!
You only need one pot, which means less cleanup—yay! I love topping mine with fresh basil for a pop of flavor. Perfect for cozy nights! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds a rich flavor, but you can swap it with Italian sausage for a spicy kick or use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you want a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or mushrooms.
No-Boil Lasagna Noodles: These are perfect for this recipe since they cook directly in the soup. If you can’t find them, regular lasagna noodles work too—just break them up and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Cheeses: Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan make this dish creamy and cheesy. If you’re looking for substitutes, try cottage cheese in place of ricotta, or mix in other melting cheeses like Fontina. For a dairy-free option, use cashew or nut-based cheeses.
Broth and Tomatoes: Beef broth deepens the flavor, but chicken or vegetable broth works just as well. Instead of crushed tomatoes, you could use diced tomatoes or even a can of tomato sauce.
How Do I Get the Right Consistency for My Soup?
The key to achieving that perfect, creamy soup consistency is all about timing and mixing. Here’s how:
- Make sure to stir in the cheeses towards the end of cooking. This allows them to melt properly without separating.
- Keep the soup at a gentle simmer while the noodles cook—this helps thicken it, making it hearty.
- If your soup turns out too thick, simply stir in more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
- For a more rustic feel, you can mash some of the noodles against the side of the pot to release starch, thickening the soup naturally.
One-Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups water
- 8 ounces no-boil lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish
Time Needed:
This One-Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup requires about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time. You’ll be enjoying this warm and cheesy soup in about 30 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or Italian sausage) and cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. If there’s any excess fat, drain it before moving on.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and the garlic is fragrant. This step is crucial for building flavor!
3. Combine Ingredients:
Pour in the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, and water. Then stir in the dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to taste. Mix everything together well.
4. Bring to a Simmer:
Let the mixture come to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer gently.
5. Add Noodles:
Add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Simmer uncovered for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender.
6. Mix in the Cheese:
Add the ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese to the soup. Stir until all the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy and delicious.
7. Check Seasoning:
Before serving, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. A little more salt or pepper can make a big difference!
8. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley or basil for a burst of freshness.
9. Enjoy:
Serve your One-Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup hot, accompanied by crusty bread or garlic bread. Enjoy this comforting dish with family and friends!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work perfectly and will result in a slightly lighter soup. Just follow the same cooking steps and seasonings for a delicious outcome.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and substitute it with extra vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms. You can also add some cooked lentils for added protein and texture.
Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
What Can I Pair This Soup With?
This cheesy lasagna soup pairs great with crusty bread or garlic bread! For a lighter option, consider serving it with a fresh garden salad to balance out the richness.
