The sizzling sound of garlic meeting sizzling onions fills my kitchen, transporting me straight to a cozy Italian bistro. Today, I’m sharing my recipe for One-Pot Cheesy Lasagne Soup, a delightful comfort food that captures all the beloved flavors of traditional lasagne while simplifying the process into a single pot. This dish proves that hearty meals needn’t be complicated or time-consuming—the beauty of this lasagne soup lies in its ease of preparation, whisking together rich tomato goodness and tender beef in just about 40 minutes. Plus, it’s a perfect crowd-pleaser for busy weeknights when you’re craving that home-cooked essence without the hassle. What could be better than a dish that makes your kitchen smell divine and warms your heart at the same time? Grab a bowl and let’s dive into this comforting culinary adventure!
Why is This Lasagne Soup a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its finest: This lasagne soup is all about easy preparation, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Comforting and satisfying: Each bowl delivers rich, hearty flavors that remind you of classic lasagne but in a delightful soup format. Crowd-pleasing: Ideal for families or entertaining guests, it will impress even the pickiest eaters. Versatile ingredients: Feel free to experiment with different proteins like turkey or even add extra veggies, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to elevate the dish. For those who love to explore Italian-inspired recipes, check out my Chicken Noodle Soup with Egg Noodles for another warm and comforting option.
Lasagne Soup Ingredients
Let’s gather everything you need to create your heartwarming lasagne soup!
For the Soup Base
- Onion – Adds depth and sweetness; use brown, red, or shallots for different flavors.
- Carrot – Provides additional sweetness; can be omitted if you’re not a fan of veggies.
- Bay Leaves – Adds aromatic complexity; feel free to leave out if you don’t have them on hand.
- Garlic – Infuses the soup with robust flavor; use about 5 cloves for a punch.
- Tomato Paste – Essential for depth and richness; don’t skip this one!
- Dried Oregano – Perfect seasoning that can be substituted with your favorite Italian herb mix.
For the Protein
- Beef Mince – The main protein; substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Beef Stock – Provides foundational flavor; you can easily swap in chicken or vegetable stock.
For Creaminess and Flavor
- Double Cream – Adds luxurious creaminess; omit if you prefer a lighter soup.
- Parmesan Rind – Optional but boosts the flavor immensely; keep any old rinds for this purpose.
For the Noodles
- Lasagne Sheets – Broken into pieces, they impart a unique texture; any pasta can work in a pinch.
For the Final Touch
- Chopped Spinach – Adds nutritional value; perfectly fine to skip if feeding picky eaters.
- Ricotta – Enhances creaminess when served; mix it with garlic and parmesan for extra flavor.
With these simple ingredients, you’ll be on your way to a comforting bowl of lasagne soup that beats any takeout!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lasagne Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large saucepan, heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and carrot along with bay leaves, stirring regularly for 5-8 minutes, until softened and fragrant. You should see the onion turning translucent, creating a lovely aroma that fills your kitchen.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasoning
Stir in minced garlic, tomato paste, and dried oregano into the softened vegetables. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking. The mixture should start to blend harmoniously, giving off a rich, savory scent that signals it’s time for the next step.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Increase the heat to high and add the beef mince into the saucepan. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks, stirring until it’s browned completely, about 5-7 minutes. Ensure there is no pink remaining, and you’ll notice the meat is nicely seared and adds a hearty touch to your lasagne soup.
Step 4: Combine Base Ingredients
Pour in the tomato passata and beef stock, then add the double cream and parmesan rind. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors throughout. After a few minutes, you’ll see bubbles rising to the surface, indicating that the base is ready.
Step 5: Incorporate the Pasta
Add the broken lasagne sheets to the simmering soup and reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom, letting it cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye out for the pasta softening and absorbing the rich broth.
Step 6: Prepare the Ricotta Topping
While the pasta cooks, grab a small bowl and mix together ricotta, grated parmesan, crushed garlic, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired. This creamy concoction will top your lasagne soup beautifully, adding a delightful finish that elevates the dish.
Step 7: Add Spinach
Stir in the chopped spinach into the soup shortly before serving, allowing it to wilt for about 2-3 minutes. The vibrant greens will brighten your lasagne soup, and you’ll see the color transform, adding extra nutrition and flavor to your comforting creation.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the steaming lasagne soup into bowls and top each serving with a generous spoonful of the ricotta mixture. This final touch will create a creamy layer over the hearty soup, inviting you to dig in and experience the delightful flavors of lasagne in a bowl.
How to Store and Freeze Lasagne Soup
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Enjoy the comforting flavors warm, either in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Freezer: Freeze lasagne soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain its creamy texture.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of beef stock or water to thin the soup if needed, as it may thicken after refrigeration or freezing.
Make-Ahead: This lasagne soup is ideal for meal prepping; making it in advance can enhance the flavors, giving you a convenient, heartwarming dish ready to enjoy any day!
Make Ahead Options
These Lasagne Soup preparations are a game-changer for busy home cooks! You can chop the onion, carrot, and garlic, and mix the ricotta topping up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate them separately to maintain their flavors. The soup base can be prepared and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to deepen. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the soup on the stove and add the broken lasagne sheets, simmering until cooked through. By prepping ahead, you not only save time but ensure that your comforting lasagne soup is just as delicious and ready to warm your heart on a busy weeknight!
Lasagne Soup Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to make this lasagne soup truly your own with these delicious twists and swaps!
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Lighter Protein: Swap beef mince for ground turkey or chicken to create a leaner but equally satisfying meal.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagne sheets or your favorite gluten-free pasta to enjoy this classic dish without the gluten! It’s a great choice for those with dietary restrictions.
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Veggie Delight: Incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture. This adds vibrant colors and a fresh crunch, making your soup even more delightful.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to bring a bit of heat, giving your lasagne soup a zesty finish. Just a pinch can elevate the whole experience!
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Vegan-Friendly: For a plant-based option, substitute beef mince with lentils or chickpeas and use vegetable stock instead of beef stock. Make sure to add in cashew cream for that creamy consistency!
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Herbal Twist: Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley instead of dried oregano for a vibrant burst of flavor. The fresh notes bring the essence of an Italian garden right to your bowl!
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Extra Creamy: If you’re a fan of creaminess, consider adding more double cream or a quick splash of coconut milk. This will make your soup extra luscious and satisfying.
For a cozy meal alongside this soup, pair it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad. And remember, if you’re looking for another inventive twist on comfort food, check out my Cheddar Gnocchi Soup for another warm favorite!
Expert Tips for Lasagne Soup
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Stir Regularly: Stirring often while the pasta cooks helps prevent the lasagne sheets from clumping together, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture.
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Use Quality Stock: Opt for a good-quality beef stock as the base to enhance the overall flavor of your lasagne soup, giving it a rich and hearty taste.
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Don’t Skip the Ricotta: Adding the ricotta mixture as a topping significantly boosts creaminess and flavor; it’s a delicious yet worthwhile step!
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Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to tweak the amount of garlic and oregano to suit your taste preferences, making the lasagne soup uniquely yours.
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Enhance with Veggies: For extra nutrition and flavor, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini; they blend beautifully into the soup.
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Make Ahead: This soup is perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day, so consider making a double batch for easy lunches!
What to Serve with One-Pot Cheesy Lasagne Soup
To create a well-rounded meal that enhances the cozy experience of this comforting lasagne soup, consider these delightful pairings.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlic-infused bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, adding a satisfying crunch with every bite.
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Crisp Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the richness of the soup.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection offer a lovely caramelized flavor that complements the hearty soup beautifully.
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Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Soft, flaky biscuits packed with cheese make a delightful sidekick, soaking up the wonderful flavors of the soup while adding a comforting touch.
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Classic Caesar Salad: The bold Caesar dressing and crunchy croutons create a delicious contrast, enhancing the soup’s flavors and adding an extra layer of satisfaction.
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Wine Pairing: A glass of red wine, like a Chianti or Merlot, perfectly complements the rich tomato flavors, bringing a touch of sophistication to your meal.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: End your meal on a sweet note with this indulgent dessert. The warm, oozy chocolate contrasts perfectly with the savory soup, leaving everyone satisfied.
These combinations will not only make your dining experience unforgettable, but they also elevate simple comfort food to a harmonious feast!
One-Pot Cheesy Lasagne Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ingredients for this lasagne soup?
Absolutely! The key to a flavorful lasagne soup starts with the freshest ingredients. For the beef, opt for 80-90% lean beef mince for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture. When selecting vegetables, look for onions that are firm and smooth, avoiding any with dark spots. For the garlic, choose bulbs that are heavy and tightly packed, indicating freshness. If using spinach, choose vibrant green leaves without any wilting. Fresh ingredients really elevate the dish!
How should I store leftover lasagne soup?
Very important! Allow your lasagne soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat it either in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. For reheating, I recommend adding a splash of beef stock or water to keep it from thickening too much.
Can I freeze lasagne soup for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the soup cool completely and then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply transfer the container to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. For reheating, place it in a saucepan over medium heat and add a little additional stock or water for the best texture. Stir gently until heated through.
What should I do if my soup thickens too much while cooking?
Very common! If you find that your lasagne soup is getting too thick, just add a small amount of beef stock or water to loosen it up. Stir gently while it simmers; this should help achieve the desired consistency. Remember, soup can always be adjusted—so don’t hesitate to tweak it to your liking!
Is there a way to customize this lasagne soup for dietary restrictions?
Definitely! This dish is quite versatile. For a gluten-free option, substitute traditional lasagne sheets with gluten-free pasta. If you are avoiding dairy, you can skip the double cream and ricotta or replace them with plant-based alternatives, like coconut cream or tofu ricotta. For those avoiding red meat, ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of beef mince. Make it your own while still capturing that comforting flavor!
Can my pet share in this lasagne soup?
Very insightful question! It’s best to keep this lasagne soup to yourself. While many of the ingredients, like beef and vegetables, are safe for pets, the garlic and onion used in the recipe can be harmful to dogs, as they can cause gastrointestinal distress. So save this delicious meal as your special comfort food and treat your pet to something safe just for them!
Comforting Lasagne Soup that Beats Takeout Every Time
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large saucepan, heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and bay leaves, stirring for 5-8 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic, tomato paste, and oregano. Cook for an additional 2 minutes while stirring.
- Add beef mince and cook at high heat, stirring until browned completely, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in tomato passata and beef stock, then add double cream and parmesan rind. Bring to a simmer.
- Add broken lasagne sheets and reduce heat, cooking until al dente, about 10-12 minutes.
- Mix ricotta with grated parmesan and garlic in a small bowl.
- Stir in chopped spinach shortly before serving, letting it wilt for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve the soup in bowls topped with the ricotta mixture.
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