Lasagna. It’s one of those comfort foods that has graced dinner tables for generations. The layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, melty cheese, and the rich combination of spices make it irresistible. But what if you could enjoy all of the delicious elements of lasagna without the time-consuming assembly? Enter One Pot Lasagna Soup – the same rich flavors, but in a quicker, more relaxed form. This recipe brings the flavors of lasagna into a cozy, hearty soup that’s easy to make and perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Unlike traditional lasagna, where you have to deal with layering noodles and cheese, the one-pot version simplifies everything, saving time and effort while still giving you that classic lasagna taste. It’s perfect for those nights when you’re craving a comforting Italian meal but don’t want to deal with the mess of baking.
This soup is flexible, too. You can adjust it to your personal taste or dietary preferences, and most of the ingredients are pantry staples, so there’s a good chance you already have everything you need.
Let’s dive into how you can create this easy, delicious dish!
One Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe
Ready to make this mouthwatering One Pot Lasagna Soup? Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and how to put it all together in just a few steps. Whether you’re a cooking pro or just getting started, this recipe is designed for anyone looking to make a simple yet delicious meal.
Ingredients Needed
Before you start, gather all of the following ingredients. These will give you that authentic lasagna flavor in no time:
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Ground beef or ground turkey (1 lb)
The base of the soup, giving it that meaty richness. Ground turkey is a lighter option, but ground beef is the classic choice.
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Onion (1 medium, finely chopped)
Adds a savory sweetness and aroma to the dish.
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Garlic cloves (3, minced)
Garlic is essential in Italian cuisine and gives the soup depth and a nice punch of flavor.
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Crushed tomatoes (28 oz can)
This will form the broth and bring that rich tomato flavor that is the hallmark of lasagna.
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Tomato paste (2 tbsp)
Concentrated tomato flavor for richness and thickness.
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Chicken broth (4 cups)
This will act as the base of your soup, giving it the right consistency. You can use vegetable broth or beef broth if preferred.
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Lasagna noodles (8 oz, broken into pieces)
The star of the show! Break them into smaller pieces so they can cook directly in the soup and soak up all the flavors.
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Ricotta cheese (1 cup)
Adds the creamy texture that makes lasagna so indulgent.
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Mozzarella cheese (1 ½ cups, shredded)
The melted mozzarella is essential for that gooey, melty goodness that you expect from lasagna.
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Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated)
A finishing touch for extra flavor.
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Italian seasoning (1 tbsp)
A blend of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme to give the soup that classic Italian flair.
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Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
Adds a little heat for those who love a spicy kick.
Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s walk through the simple steps to make this lasagna soup. It’s all about layering the flavors and cooking everything in one pot, so you don’t need to worry about complicated steps or dishes piling up. Here’s how to do it:
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Brown The Meat
- Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef or turkey. Cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
- Once browned, remove any excess fat if needed and set the meat aside.
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Sauté The Aromatics
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Build The Soup Base
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add in the Italian seasoning and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together.
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Cook The Noodles
- Break the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces (about 2-3 inch pieces) and add them to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Let the soup simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally so the noodles don’t stick to the bottom.
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Add The Cheese
- Once the noodles are cooked, lower the heat and stir in the ricotta, mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
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Final Touches
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary (you might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning).
- Serve hot, topped with the remaining Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Ingredient Insights
Every ingredient in this soup serves a purpose, and each one contributes to the overall flavor profile. Here’s why these ingredients are key:
- Ground meat (beef or turkey): The foundation of the soup, providing protein and savory depth.
- Tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that enriches the soup base.
- Ricotta and mozzarella: The creamy, cheesy elements that replicate the lasagna layers we all love.
- Italian seasoning: This mix of herbs is the backbone of most Italian dishes. It brings balance to the soup.
- Lasagna noodles: The true star – soaking up all the flavors of the broth while creating that authentic lasagna feel.
Expert Tips
- Use fresh herbs: If you have fresh basil or oregano on hand, swap out the dried Italian seasoning for fresh herbs. It’ll give the soup a vibrant flavor.
- Simmer carefully: Don’t rush the simmering process. Let the noodles absorb the flavors and get tender. Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking together.
- Make it a day ahead: Like most soups, this lasagna soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
- Add greens for extra nutrients: Spinach or kale can be added for a pop of color and a nutritional boost. Just toss it in when you add the cheese so it wilts into the soup.
Recipe Variations
One of the best things about a one-pot lasagna soup is how customizable it is. Here are some variations to try:
- Vegetarian version: Omit the ground meat and use lentils, mushrooms, or tofu for a plant-based protein. You can also add more veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Spicy version: Add a chopped jalapeño or more red pepper flakes for a spicier kick. You can even throw in a bit of hot sausage instead of regular ground meat.
- Add a creamy touch: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for an extra creamy texture.
- Swap the noodles: If you want to try something different, you can use gluten-free lasagna noodles or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.
Final Words
This One Pot Lasagna Soup is truly a game-changer for busy weeknights when you want the comforting flavors of lasagna without all the fuss. It’s hearty, cheesy, and packs all the classic lasagna goodness into one simple bowl. Plus, you don’t have to wait for the oven to heat up or worry about layering pasta sheets. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for leftovers.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, this recipe will be a hit every time. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your own variations, and enjoy the process!
FAQs
What Is A One Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe?
A one pot lasagna soup recipe is a simplified version of traditional lasagna, where the ingredients are cooked together in a single pot to create a comforting, soup-like version of the dish. It combines the flavors of lasagna-such as noodles, meat, tomatoes, and cheese-into a hearty, easy-to-make soup.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead Of Ground Beef For Lasagna Soup?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in a one pot lasagna soup recipe. Ground turkey will give the soup a lighter flavor, but still provide the necessary protein and texture. You can also opt for ground chicken or lean sausage for variations.
How Do I Make Lasagna Soup Gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free lasagna soup, simply swap the regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free pasta or rice noodles. Be sure to check the labels of your broth and other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free, and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
Can I Freeze One Pot Lasagna Soup?
Yes, you can freeze one pot lasagna soup. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
What Kind Of Cheese Is Best For Lasagna Soup?
A combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese is typically used in lasagna soup. Ricotta adds creaminess, mozzarella gives the soup its cheesy stretchiness, and Parmesan brings a sharp, nutty flavor. You can adjust the proportions or substitute with other cheeses like provolone or Gouda depending on personal preference.
Can I Use Vegetable Broth Instead Of Chicken Or Beef Broth?
Yes, vegetable broth is a great substitute if you want to make the soup vegetarian or simply prefer a different flavor profile. It will still provide depth to the soup, especially when paired with hearty vegetables and seasonings.
How Long Does It Take To Make One Pot Lasagna Soup?
On average, a one pot lasagna soup can be made in about 30 to 40 minutes. The cooking time can vary depending on the type of noodles used and whether you’re browning meat before adding the rest of the ingredients.
Can I Use No-boil Lasagna Noodles In This Soup Recipe?
Yes, you can use no-boil lasagna noodles in a one pot lasagna soup. Simply break them into smaller pieces and add them to the soup as it cooks. The noodles will soften and absorb the flavors of the broth, making them perfect for this easy recipe.
How Can I Make One Pot Lasagna Soup Spicier?
To add some heat to your lasagna soup, you can incorporate spicy ingredients like crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or hot Italian sausage. You can also increase the amount of black pepper or chili powder depending on your preferred level of spiciness.
Is It Necessary To Brown The Meat Before Adding It To The Soup?
Yes, browning the meat before adding it to the soup helps to enhance its flavor by creating a caramelized crust. It also allows you to drain any excess fat, which results in a cleaner, less greasy soup. However, if you’re in a rush, you can skip this step, though the flavor might be slightly less rich.