Lasagna soup is an irresistible twist on the classic lasagna, transforming the beloved dish into a cozy, soul-satisfying bowl of comfort. Imagine everything you love about lasagna-rich marinara sauce, gooey cheese, savory beef, and aromatic herbs-transformed into a warm, hearty soup. It’s perfect for those chilly days when you want the heartiness of lasagna but with less work and time involved. This lasagna soup recipe skips the ricotta, making it a bit lighter, yet still bursting with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a weeknight meal, this soup will quickly become a family favorite.
Lasagna Soup No Ricotta Recipe
This no-ricotta lasagna soup is a simplified, yet equally satisfying version of traditional lasagna. The absence of ricotta doesn’t sacrifice any of the essential flavors-ground beef, tangy marinara, and gooey melted cheese are still front and center. The best part? It’s easy to make, using only one pot, which means less mess and more time enjoying the meal!
Ingredients Needed
You’re not dealing with an extensive list of ingredients here-just a few pantry staples and some fresh essentials. Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting dish:
- Ground beef (or turkey, if you prefer) – The base of your soup, giving it that meaty richness. You can use lean ground beef to keep it lighter.
- Olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables and adding flavor to the soup base.
- Yellow onion – A key flavor base, chopped finely.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic is a must, finely minced for that aromatic punch.
- Crushed tomatoes – This gives the soup its rich, tomatoey base.
- Marinara sauce – Adds depth and sweetness to the tomato flavor.
- Beef broth – Enhances the meaty base and brings everything together.
- Pasta (such as mafaldine or broken lasagna noodles) – Traditional lasagna noodles are cut into smaller pieces, or you can opt for any short pasta like rotini or penne.
- Mozzarella cheese – The melty, stretchy cheese that’ll top off your soup.
- Parmesan cheese – For an added layer of savory, nutty flavor.
- Italian seasoning – A blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary-bringing that herby, Italian vibe.
- Salt and pepper – To taste, for seasoning and balance.
Cooking Instructions
Making lasagna soup is straightforward and involves just a few simple steps. Here’s a detailed guide to bringing all the ingredients together in one pot:
-
Sauté The Veggies
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
-
Brown The Meat
Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
-
Add The Liquids And Seasonings
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, marinara sauce, and beef broth. Add 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
-
Cook The Pasta
Once the soup is simmering, add your pasta to the pot. Let it cook uncovered for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.
-
Finish With Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Let them melt into the soup, creating a creamy, cheesy texture throughout.
-
Serve And Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls, then top with the remaining mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Garnish with a bit of fresh basil or parsley for color and extra flavor.
Ingredient Insights
- Ground Beef: Ground beef adds a savory depth to the soup, making it rich and filling. If you’re looking to make a leaner version, swapping it out for ground turkey or chicken is a great option, and it’ll still give you that hearty texture.
- Crushed Tomatoes and Marinara Sauce: Using both crushed tomatoes and marinara sauce creates a nice balance between tangy and slightly sweet flavors, mimicking the rich tomato base found in classic lasagna. If you’re in a pinch, you could use all crushed tomatoes, but it may lack that familiar Italian flavor profile.
- Cheese: Cheese is what makes this soup “lasagna”! Mozzarella, for its meltiness, and Parmesan, for its sharp and nutty flavor, come together to replicate the cheesy goodness of traditional lasagna layers. Adding them towards the end of cooking ensures they melt perfectly, without getting too stringy or overcooked.
- Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs brings the aromatic punch that gives this soup its Italian flair. You can play around with it by adding extra fresh basil or oregano if you want to make the flavor more pronounced.
Expert Tips
- Customize the pasta: While traditional lasagna noodles are great, you don’t have to stick with them. Try other short pasta shapes like fusilli, rotini, or penne. Just be sure to cook the pasta separately if you’re planning to store leftovers to avoid the noodles absorbing too much of the broth.
- Make it ahead: Lasagna soup stores wonderfully! Make it a day ahead to let the flavors meld together. If storing, keep the pasta separate and add it when reheating to prevent it from getting too soft.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or ricotta alternative: If you miss that creamy element from traditional lasagna, a dollop of sour cream or a ricotta substitute (like whipped cream cheese) can provide the creamy element without the ricotta.
- Spicy variation: Add red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño when cooking the onions and garlic for a spicy twist. It’ll add a little heat, balancing the richness of the cheese and tomato.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Lasagna Soup: Skip the meat altogether and add extra veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers. A plant-based protein like lentils or a plant-based meat alternative can also be used for added texture.
- Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup: Toss everything (except the pasta and cheese) into your slow cooker, and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the pasta and cheese about 15-20 minutes before serving.
- Gluten-Free Version: Swap the pasta for a gluten-free option. Gluten-free pasta tends to absorb more liquid, so be ready to add extra broth if necessary.
- Creamy Lasagna Soup: For a creamy version, add a cup of heavy cream or half-and-half to the soup base after the beef is browned, before adding the tomatoes and broth. This will create a richer, velvety texture.
Final Words
Lasagna soup without ricotta brings all the flavor and comfort of the classic dish, but in a streamlined, easy-to-make soup form. It’s the perfect solution when you’re craving lasagna but want to skip the layers and hours of baking. With its hearty base, melty cheese, and bold Italian seasonings, this soup will warm you up on even the coldest nights.
FAQs
What Is Lasagna Soup Without Ricotta?
Lasagna soup without ricotta is a variation of traditional lasagna where the ricotta cheese is omitted. The soup is made with a savory broth, pasta, ground meat (often beef or sausage), tomatoes, and a blend of seasonings to mimic the flavors of lasagna without the cheese layer typically found in the classic dish.
Can I Make Lasagna Soup Without Ricotta In Advance?
Yes, lasagna soup can be made ahead of time. However, it is best to cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving to avoid it becoming too soggy. The soup itself can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and the flavors will continue to develop.
What Can I Use Instead Of Ricotta In Lasagna Soup?
Instead of ricotta, you can use a variety of alternatives depending on your preference. Options include cottage cheese, cream cheese, or even a dairy-free option like cashew cream. Some people also choose to simply skip the cheese altogether and add more vegetables or a thicker broth for texture.
What Type Of Pasta Is Best For Lasagna Soup Without Ricotta?
Traditional lasagna noodles, broken into pieces, are commonly used for lasagna soup. However, you can also use other types of pasta like rotini, penne, or fusilli. It’s important to choose pasta that will hold up well in the soup without becoming too mushy.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead Of Beef Or Pork In Lasagna Soup?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to beef or pork in lasagna soup. Ground chicken or even plant-based meat substitutes are also great options for those looking for lower-fat or vegetarian versions of the soup.
How Do I Add Flavor To Lasagna Soup Without Ricotta?
The key to adding flavor to lasagna soup without ricotta is in the seasonings and broth. Use a good-quality broth (beef or vegetable) and add garlic, onion, oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes for that lasagna-inspired flavor. Adding a little Parmesan or mozzarella towards the end of cooking will also help to enhance the taste.
Can I Make Lasagna Soup Without Ricotta In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can make lasagna soup without ricotta in a slow cooker. Simply sauté the ground meat and vegetables, then add them to the slow cooker with the broth and seasonings. Let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add pasta towards the end to prevent it from becoming too soft.
What Can I Serve With Lasagna Soup Without Ricotta?
Lasagna soup pairs well with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette. For extra indulgence, a sprinkle of mozzarella or Parmesan cheese can be added on top when serving.
Is Lasagna Soup Without Ricotta Gluten-free?
Lasagna soup without ricotta is not necessarily gluten-free, as traditional pasta contains gluten. However, you can easily make the recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta or a pasta substitute like zucchini noodles or rice noodles.
Can Lasagna Soup Without Ricotta Be Made Vegetarian?
Yes, you can make lasagna soup without ricotta vegetarian by substituting the ground meat with plant-based alternatives like lentils, mushrooms, or a vegetarian meat substitute. You can also add extra vegetables to create a hearty and flavorful vegetarian soup.