Lasagna is one of those beloved comfort foods that people can enjoy in almost any season-rich, hearty, and layered with flavor. But what if you could enjoy all the warmth and deliciousness of traditional lasagna without the hassle of layering noodles and baking it for hours? Enter Lasagna Soup!
This dish takes everything that makes lasagna great and transforms it into a quick, one-pot soup. It’s the ultimate combination of convenience and flavor, offering a warm, creamy, and savory bowl of comfort. When you add ground turkey instead of the traditional beef, you get a leaner version that still packs in tons of flavor. Whether you’re craving something filling for dinner or want to impress guests with a creative twist on a classic, this lasagna soup will do the trick.
Let’s dive into how you can make this mouthwatering dish and get a taste of all its delicious, comforting goodness.
Lasagna Soup With Ground Turkey Recipe
This Lasagna Soup recipe with ground turkey is like a cozy, flavorful hug in a bowl. It’s packed with the familiar flavors of lasagna-tomato, herbs, cheese, and tender noodles-but in a slurp-worthy soup format. The ground turkey keeps things lighter without compromising on taste. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend family dinners.
Ingredients Needed
To get started, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to gather for a delicious pot of lasagna soup:
- Ground turkey (1 lb): The star of the show! This provides lean protein without the heaviness of beef.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): For sautéing the veggies and giving a rich, smooth base.
- Yellow onion (1, chopped): Adds depth and sweetness to the soup.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): A must for that savory punch.
- Carrots (2, peeled and chopped): These bring a slight sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
- Celery (2 stalks, chopped): Adds texture and an aromatic foundation.
- Crushed tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): The key to that rich tomato flavor.
- Tomato sauce (1 can, 15 oz): Gives the soup that creamy, smooth tomato base.
- Beef broth (4 cups): Rich and savory, it adds body to the soup and helps everything come together.
- Bay leaves (2): For a subtle herbal flavor.
- Italian seasoning (2 tbsp): A blend of basil, oregano, and thyme that brings the classic Italian lasagna taste.
- Lasagna noodles (8 oz, broken into pieces): These make up the pasta portion of your soup. You can use regular or gluten-free lasagna noodles depending on your preference.
- Ricotta cheese (½ cup): This adds that signature creaminess and richness to the soup.
- Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melted on top for that gooey, cheesy finish.
- Parmesan cheese (¼ cup, grated): To sprinkle on top for an extra cheesy touch.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s walk through the cooking process to make sure you’re creating a flavor-packed bowl of soup.
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Sauté The Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute or so until fragrant.
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Brown The Ground Turkey
Push the veggies to one side of the pot and add the ground turkey to the other side. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Season the turkey with a pinch of salt and pepper to help develop the flavor.
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Add The Liquids And Seasonings
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add the Italian seasoning and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for 15 minutes to meld the flavors.
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Cook The Noodles
Break the lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and stir them into the soup. Let them cook for about 10-12 minutes, until they are tender but not too mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
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Finish The Soup
Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the ricotta cheese. This will create a creamy, velvety texture. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
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Serve And Top
Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. If you’d like, you can also garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Ingredient Insights
- Ground Turkey: Opting for ground turkey in this recipe helps reduce the fat content compared to traditional beef. Turkey is also a great source of lean protein and offers a milder flavor that pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients. It absorbs the spices and tomato broth really well, so it’s never bland in the soup.
- Noodles: Using lasagna noodles adds that familiar, comforting texture that makes lasagna so iconic. Breaking them into smaller pieces allows them to cook more evenly in the soup. You could also try other types of pasta, like rigatoni or penne, if you prefer.
- Tomatoes & Broth: The combination of crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth creates a perfect balance of richness and acidity. The tomato flavor is the backbone of this dish, while the broth provides a savory depth. You can use vegetable broth for a lighter option or if you’re vegetarian.
- Ricotta & Mozzarella: Ricotta gives the soup a creamy, smooth texture and a slightly tangy flavor, while mozzarella melts beautifully on top. Together, they create that cheesy, lasagna-like experience we all crave.
Expert Tips
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Pasta can get mushy if it’s left in the soup too long, so be sure to keep an eye on it. If you’re making the soup ahead of time, consider cooking the noodles separately and adding them just before serving to preserve their texture.
- Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Letting it sit allows the flavors to develop more fully, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeks.
- Top It with Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil, oregano, or parsley can take your soup to the next level. It adds an herbal freshness that contrasts nicely with the rich tomato broth and creamy cheese.
- Add Spice: If you want a little heat, throw in some red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or season the soup with a dash of hot sauce.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: You can easily make this dish vegetarian by replacing the ground turkey with plant-based meat or extra vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. Use vegetable broth to keep the soup rich without meat.
- Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, skip the ricotta and mozzarella, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Coconut milk can be a good substitute for the creamy texture.
- Different Noodles: If you don’t have lasagna noodles, any pasta will work! Try rotini, farfalle, or even macaroni for a different shape.
- Spicy Version: Add some chili flakes, jalapeños, or even a bit of sriracha for a spicier kick.
Final Words
Lasagna soup with ground turkey is one of those dishes that combines convenience with indulgence. You get all the flavors of lasagna in a fraction of the time-no need to layer noodles or spend hours baking. Plus, using ground turkey makes it lighter without sacrificing any of the hearty goodness we love.
It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for cozy family dinners, meal prep, or even impressing guests with a fun, unique twist on a classic. And because it’s such a versatile recipe, you can tweak it to suit your dietary preferences or taste.
FAQs
What Is Lasagna Soup With Ground Turkey?
Lasagna soup with ground turkey is a hearty, comforting dish that combines the flavors of traditional lasagna, such as tomato, garlic, and herbs, with ground turkey instead of beef. It’s a lighter variation of the classic lasagna but in soup form, featuring pasta, a rich tomato-based broth, and melted cheese.
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead Of Ground Turkey?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey with ground beef. However, ground turkey makes the soup leaner, and using ground beef will result in a richer, more traditional flavor. Adjust seasonings and cooking times accordingly to suit your preference.
What Kind Of Pasta Should I Use For Lasagna Soup?
For lasagna soup, broken lasagna noodles are commonly used. If you don’t have lasagna noodles, you can substitute with other short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells. Just ensure the pasta is bite-sized to match the soup’s consistency.
Can I Make Lasagna Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, lasagna soup can be made ahead of time. It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. However, if you plan to freeze it, it’s best to store the pasta separately to avoid it becoming too soft when reheated.
Is Lasagna Soup With Ground Turkey A Healthy Dish?
Lasagna soup with ground turkey is generally a healthier option compared to traditional lasagna because ground turkey is leaner than beef. Additionally, it can be made lighter by reducing the amount of cheese or using low-fat alternatives. The dish is also rich in vegetables like onions, garlic, and tomatoes, adding nutritional value.
Can I Make Lasagna Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, lasagna soup can be made in a slow cooker. Brown the ground turkey and sauté the vegetables beforehand, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours. Add the pasta about 30 minutes before serving to prevent it from becoming too soft.
What Cheese Is Best For Lasagna Soup?
The best cheese for lasagna soup is a combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Ricotta gives the soup a creamy texture, mozzarella adds meltiness, and Parmesan provides a salty, umami flavor. You can also sprinkle extra cheese on top before serving.
Can I Make A Vegetarian Version Of Lasagna Soup?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of lasagna soup by replacing the ground turkey with plant-based protein or lentils. Additionally, use vegetable broth and skip any meat-based ingredients. You can still enjoy the traditional flavors with cheese, pasta, and vegetables.
What Spices Should I Use For Lasagna Soup?
The key spices for lasagna soup are garlic, basil, oregano, and thyme, which are commonly used in traditional lasagna recipes. You can also add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, and salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning based on your flavor preference.
How Do I Store And Reheat Leftover Lasagna Soup?
To store leftover lasagna soup, allow it to cool completely and then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a little extra broth if necessary to loosen the soup. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.