Lasagna Soup Hearty Italian Bowl

This hearty lasagna soup transforms the traditional comfort dish into a rich, satisfying bowl you can enjoy in under 30 minutes. All the familiar lasagna flavors mingle in a savory broth, creating a meal that's both nostalgic and innovative.

I first created this soup on a chilly autumn evening when my family was craving lasagna but I lacked the time for layering and baking. The moment my kids tried it, they declared it even better than traditional lasagna—now it's requested at least twice a month in our home.

Ingredients

• Ground beef 90/10: provides the perfect balance of flavor and leanness while creating the hearty base
• Yellow onion: adds aromatic sweetness that develops depth as it cooks with the beef
• Garlic cloves: bring essential Italian flavor that permeates the entire soup
• Tomato paste: concentrates umami richness and thickens the broth beautifully
• Marinara sauce: delivers instant complex flavor without hours of simmering
• Italian seasoning: blends multiple herbs in one convenient addition
• Chicken broth: creates a silky base that marries all flavors together
• Lasagna noodles: broken into pieces give the authentic pasta experience in spoonable form
• Fresh parsley: brightens the rich flavors with herbal notes
• Cheese blend: combines mozzarella, parmesan and ricotta for that authentic lasagna experience

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Meat and Aromatics:

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground beef and diced onion, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is completely browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. This creates the flavor foundation for your soup. If there's excessive fat, drain it off for a cleaner broth.

Add Flavor Builders:

Add the minced garlic and tomato paste to the pot, stirring constantly for about one minute. The garlic should become fragrant but not brown, while the tomato paste caramelizes slightly for deeper flavor. Stir in the fresh parsley to incorporate its bright notes.

Create the Sauce Base:

Pour in the marinara sauce and sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the meat mixture. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients, allowing the seasonings to bloom in the hot sauce for about 30 seconds.

Develop the Soup:

Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to medium-low and carefully add your broken lasagna noodles. Simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally to prevent noodles from sticking together, until pasta is tender but still has slight bite, approximately 8-10 minutes.

Finish with Fresh Elements:

Stir in the remaining chopped parsley and taste the soup. This is your opportunity to adjust seasonings with additional salt and pepper if needed. The broth should be rich and well-balanced with noticeable herb flavors.

Prepare the Cheese Mixture:

In a separate small bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, parmesan, and ricotta cheese, stirring until well mixed. This creates the signature creamy, cheesy element that makes lasagna so beloved.

Serve with Signature Topping:

Ladle the hot soup into individual serving bowls. Top each serving with a generous dollop of the cheese mixture, allowing it to melt slightly into the hot soup. Garnish with additional fresh parsley and basil leaves for color and aroma.

Save This

The cheese mixture truly transforms this from a regular soup to an extraordinary experience. I discovered this approach by accident when my daughter insisted on having a "pool of cheese" on top rather than stirred in. Now we never serve it any other way—watching the cheese slowly melt into the hot broth creates anticipation that makes the first spoonful absolutely magical.

Make-Ahead Storage Tips

This lasagna soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. The flavors actually develop and deepen overnight, making it ideal for meal prep. When reheating, add a splash of broth if the soup has thickened, as the pasta will continue absorbing liquid. For longer storage, freeze portions without the cheese mixture for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop.

Simple Substitutions

Easily accommodate dietary preferences by swapping ground beef for Italian sausage, ground turkey, or plant-based alternatives. For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers, creating equally satisfying depth. The chicken broth can be substituted with vegetable broth without sacrificing flavor. For gluten-free diets, use your favorite gluten-free pasta broken into pieces—just adjust cooking time according to package directions.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your lasagna soup experience by offering crusty garlic bread or focaccia alongside for dipping. A simple side salad with Italian vinaigrette creates a restaurant-worthy meal. For entertaining, set up a topping bar with extra cheese, red pepper flakes, fresh herbs, and crunchy garlic croutons, allowing guests to customize their bowls. This soup pairs wonderfully with a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese to complement the rich tomato flavors.

Common Queries

→ What type of meat works best for lasagna soup?

Lean ground beef adds hearty flavor and richness. Turkey, chicken, or plant-based grounds can also be used.

→ Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, small shapes like ditalini or shells work well. Any short pasta that holds broth is suitable.

→ How do I make it vegetarian?

Replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms and zucchini, and use vegetable broth for depth of flavor.

→ When should cheese be added?

For the best texture, mix cheeses just before serving, then spoon over each bowl while the soup is hot.

→ Can lasagna soup be made ahead?

Yes, prepare the soup without adding cheese or pasta; add them when reheating to prevent sogginess.

→ What garnishes are recommended?

Freshly chopped parsley and basil leaves brighten the dish and enhance its Italian flavors.