Name: Cozy Up with Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef (Use 80/20 for best flavor); 1 pound Italian sausage (Can substitute with ground turkey); 1 14.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes (Adds acidity and flavor); 4 cups chicken stock (Homemade or store-bought); 1 medium onion (Chopped); 4 cloves garlic (Minced); 2 tablespoons tomato paste (Thickens the soup); 1 tablespoon dried basil; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 bay leaf (Remove before serving); 2-3 pieces lasagna noodles (Broken into pieces); ½ cup heavy cream (Stir in off the heat); 1½ cups mozzarella cheese (Plus extra for garnishing)

As the aroma of simmering herbs wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel nostalgic for family dinners filled with laughter and warmth. Today, I’m sharing a comforting bowl of Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta, a delightful twist on a classic that’s sure to soothe your soul. This hearty soup packs all the beloved flavors of traditional lasagna into a quick and easy dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. With savory ground beef, tender pasta, and a luxurious cheesy finish, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you simply crave a cozy meal. Plus, it’s family-friendly and makes fantastic leftovers, ensuring you’ll have something nutritious on hand when time is tight. Ready to dive into a bowl of comfort? Let’s get cooking!

Why is Easy Lasagna Soup a Must-Try?

Hearty Comfort: This soup embodies the ultimate comfort food, with rich flavors reminiscent of your favorite lasagna.
Quick & Easy: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy evenings when you need a satisfying meal fast.
Family Favorite: Kid-approved and adult-friendly, it’s a dish everyone can enjoy.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with ground turkey or add veggies like spinach for a nutritious twist.
Perfect Leftovers: The flavors develop beautifully overnight, making it a great choice for meal prep or taking to work.
Pair it with some crusty garlic bread or try it alongside a refreshing Caesar salad for a complete dining experience!

Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta Ingredients

For the Soup Base

Ground Beef – Provides a rich, savory base; choose 80/20 for the best flavor without excessive greasiness.
Italian Sausage – Adds spice and depth; feel free to mix in ground turkey for a leaner option.
Diced Tomatoes – Offers acidity and color; use canned for convenience and flavor enhancement.
Chicken Stock – Delivers depth to the soup; homemade or store-bought works wonderfully.
Onion – Builds foundational flavor; sauté until translucent for optimum taste.
Garlic – Infuses aromas into the soup; add it to the onions for a fragrant base.
Tomato Paste – Thickens the soup and intensifies the tomato flavor; a must-have for richness.
Dried Herbs (basil, oregano, parsley) – Infuses the soup with aromatic qualities; fresh herbs can be substituted.
Bay Leaf – Adds depth but doesn’t forget to remove it before serving!

For the Lasagna Noodles

Lasagna Noodles – The star of the dish; use either traditional or gluten-free varieties depending on your preference.

For Creaminess and Topping

Heavy Cream – Adds a creamy, luxurious texture; stir in off the heat to prevent curdling.
Mozzarella Cheese – Adds a gooey, melty finish to the soup; reserve some for garnishing.

This Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta offers a delightful, comforting dish that brings the warmth of family dinners to your table in just 30 minutes!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta

Step 1: Brown the Meat
In a large Dutch oven, heat over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and 1 pound of Italian sausage, cooking until nicely browned, approximately 6–8 minutes. Ensure the meat is thoroughly cooked and breaks apart easily, as this will enhance the overall flavor of your Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta. Do not drain the fat; it will add richness to the soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
With the meat browned, add 1 chopped onion and 4 minced cloves of garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3 minutes or until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully. This step forms the flavorful base for your comforting soup.

Step 3: Add Flavorings
Next, stir in a generous 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 tablespoon of dried basil, 1 tablespoon of dried oregano, and 1 bay leaf. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the spices and tomato paste to become aromatic and caramelized. This step will deepen the flavor profile of your Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta significantly.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Pour in a 14.5-ounce can of diced tomatoes and 4 cups of chicken stock, stirring well to combine. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, which will take about 5 minutes. This boiling step is essential to ensure all flavors meld together beautifully before you continue cooking.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for 10 minutes. This simmering phase allows the flavors of your Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta to develop and intensify, creating a rich and hearty broth. Give it an occasional stir to prevent sticking to the bottom.

Step 6: Cook the Noodles
Add approximately 2–3 broken lasagna noodles to the simmering soup. Stir gently to incorporate, letting them cook for about 10 minutes or until al dente. Keep an eye on the noodles to avoid overcooking, as you want them tender but still firm, ensuring a satisfying texture in every spoonful.

Step 7: Finish the Soup
Once the noodles are cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in ½ cup of heavy cream and 1½ cups of mozzarella cheese until melted. This will create a creamy, luxurious texture in your Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta. Make sure to mix thoroughly for a silky finish.

Step 8: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with additional mozzarella cheese for that gooey, melty topping. You can also garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot, perhaps with a side of crusty garlic bread or a simple salad, allowing everyone to enjoy the comforting essence of this dish.

Storage Tips for Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta

Fridge: Store any leftover Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta in an airtight container for up to 4 days; the flavors will deepen after an overnight rest.

Freezer: To preserve the soup for longer, freeze it before adding cream and cheese for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock if it thickens too much. Stir in cream and cheese once heated through for a fresh taste.

Leftovers: Enjoy the improved taste of leftovers; they make a quick, hearty lunch or dinner option that’s delicious and comforting!

What to Serve with Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta

Cozying up with a warm bowl of soup creates the perfect backdrop for a delightful meal experience.

Crusty Garlic Bread: The perfect companion for sopping up every drop of delicious soup, amplifying the comforting experience.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, zesty dressing, and crunchy croutons offer a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft and buttery rolls add a light, fluffy element that complements the rich flavors of lasagna soup.
Savory Breadsticks: These cheesy, herb-infused treats provide a fun, dippable option that pairs beautifully with the soup.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables adds color and health to your plate, balancing out the dish’s creaminess.
Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine, like Chianti, enhances the Italian flavors, creating a more sophisticated dining experience.
Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with warm apple crisp; its cinnamon-spiced flavor contrasts nicely with the savory soup.
Italian Pasta Salad: A chilled salad packed with fresh vegetables and Italian dressing complements the warm soup and adds a cheerful touch.
Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: These flaky, cheesy delights bring comfort and flavor, making every bite a satisfying treat alongside your soup.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta are a lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can prepare the soup base (without cream and cheese) up to 3 days in advance, storing it in the refrigerator. Just brown the meats, sauté the onions and garlic, and add your tomatoes and broth, letting it cool before refrigerating. When ready to serve, simply bring the mixture back to a simmer, add broken lasagna noodles, and cook for about 10 minutes until tender. Stir in the heavy cream and mozzarella off the heat for a creamy finish, ensuring that your soup is just as delicious as when freshly made!

Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta Variations

Feel free to add your personal touch to this recipe and create a unique version of Easy Lasagna Soup that your family will love!

Ground Turkey: Use lean ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option, keeping the flavor profile rich. It’s a great way to enjoy a healthier meal while still enjoying that cozy vibe.
Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative for a creamy texture without the dairy. This variation is perfect for lactose-sensitive family members who don’t want to miss out on the comfort.
Veggie-Loaded: Stir in fresh spinach or kale towards the end of cooking to boost nutrition without sacrificing flavor. The greens add a nice texture and a pop of color that makes the soup even more inviting.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the soup for a delightful heat that will warm you up inside and out. Just a pinch will elevate the dish and satisfy those who love a little spice in their meals.
Mushroom Richness: Introduce sliced mushrooms for additional earthiness and texture. As they sauté with the onions and garlic, they’ll soak up all the savory flavors and add depth to your soup.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist. These herbs can elevate the flavors, reminiscent of traditional Italian cooking, and make your kitchen smell amazing.
Cheesy Variations: Mix in some ricotta or cottage cheese instead of just mozzarella for an authentic lasagna flavor profile without the ricotta layer. This will add creaminess throughout the soup and make it even more indulgent.

Enjoy exploring these variations and discovering your favorite rendition of Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta! For more comforting recipes, check out this Cheddar Gnocchi Soup and find the perfect pairing to suit your taste!

Expert Tips for Easy Lasagna Soup

Timing is Key: Add lasagna noodles only 10-12 minutes before the soup is done to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Brown the Meat Well: Ensure the beef is well-browned before adding other ingredients; this enhances the overall flavor richness of your Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta.
Careful with Dairy: Stir in heavy cream off the heat to prevent curdling and maintain a creamy texture.
Cheesy Goodness: For the best melty topping, add most of the mozzarella just before serving. This provides a gooey finish every time!
Herb Freshness: If using fresh herbs instead of dried, remember to increase the quantity, as fresh herbs have a milder flavor.
Flavor Boost: Consider adding a splash of red wine or a dash of balsamic vinegar during cooking for an extra depth of flavor.

Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta Recipe FAQs

What type of ground beef should I use for the soup?
I recommend using 80/20 or 85/15 ground beef for the best flavor without too much greasiness. This fat ratio will give your Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta a rich and savory base that enhances the overall taste of the dish.

How should I store leftovers of Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to preserve freshness. The flavors will actually improve after an overnight rest, so feel free to enjoy it a day later!

Can I freeze Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta?
Absolutely! You can freeze the soup before adding the cream and cheese for up to 3 months. To freeze, let it cool completely, then pour it into a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, reheat on the stove, and stir in the cream and cheese for that fresh, creamy finish.

What if the lasagna noodles become mushy in the soup?
To prevent mushy noodles, add the broken lasagna noodles only 10-12 minutes before the soup is done simmering. Keep an eye on them as they cook; they should be al dente when you remove the pot from heat. This way, they stay tender yet firm in each comforting bite.

Are there any dietary considerations for Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta?
Yes! If you’re considering dietary restrictions, feel free to substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. Additionally, you can replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version of this comforting soup. Always check for allergies with your ingredients and adjust as necessary.