Lasagna is one of those comfort foods that can take you back to family dinners, cozy nights, or even memories of Sunday meals that filled the house with warmth. But sometimes, you might not want the traditional layered, heavy pasta bake. Enter Lasagna Soup with Sausage-a delicious twist that’s both hearty and soul-satisfying, but in a much lighter, more slurp-able form. Imagine all the flavors of a lasagna-rich tomato sauce, creamy cheese, flavorful sausage-served in a hearty, satisfying soup. It’s a game-changer for anyone who craves lasagna without the fuss of layering and baking.
Not only does this lasagna soup pack a flavor punch, but it’s incredibly versatile. You can adjust the ingredients to your liking, play with the textures, and even make it a one-pot meal. In this guide, I’ll take you through everything you need to know to make this dish your new favorite comfort food, from the essential ingredients to some pro-level tips and tricks. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this flavorful journey!
Lasagna Soup With Sausage Recipe
This recipe strikes a perfect balance between rich, savory, and comforting, just like classic lasagna. It’s great for cold nights, busy weekdays, or whenever you want something that’s going to warm both your heart and your stomach.
Ingredients Needed
To create this delicious lasagna soup, you’ll need a mix of basic pantry ingredients and some flavorful additions that will bring depth to the soup. Here’s what you’ll need:
For The Soup Base
- Italian Sausage (1 lb) – Sweet or spicy, depending on your preference. This is the backbone of your flavor and gives the soup that rich, meaty texture.
- Yellow Onion (1 medium, diced) – Adds sweetness and a mild oniony flavor to balance out the sausage.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – A must for that aromatic kick.
- Crushed Tomatoes (28 oz can) – This forms the rich, tangy base of the soup, giving it that familiar lasagna flavor.
- Tomato Sauce (15 oz can) – Works with the crushed tomatoes to create a smooth and velvety texture.
- Chicken Broth (4 cups) – Acts as the liquid foundation of your soup, making it comforting without being too heavy.
- Lasagna Noodles (8 oz) – Broken into pieces, these will cook right in the soup and absorb all those flavors.
- Spinach (4 cups, fresh or frozen) – For a pop of green and an extra nutritional boost.
- Ricotta Cheese (1 cup) – For that creamy, slightly tangy element that mimics the cheesy layers in lasagna.
- Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated) – Adds a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the soup.
- Fresh Basil (optional) – For a fragrant, fresh finishing touch.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning. Adjust according to taste.
For The Optional Garnish
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (½ cup) – To melt over the top for that ooey-gooey, melty finish.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (to taste) – If you like a little spice, this will take it up a notch.
Cooking Instructions
Ready to cook up a storm? Here’s how to bring all of those ingredients together in a way that guarantees flavor and satisfaction:
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Brown The Sausage
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the sausage (casings removed) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the sausage is browned and crumbled, transfer it to a plate and set aside.
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Sauté The Vegetables
- In the same pot, add a little more oil if needed, then toss in the diced onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing it to release its aromatic oils.
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Create The Soup Base
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add the browned sausage back into the pot, and let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
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Add The Pasta
- Stir in the broken lasagna noodles. Reduce the heat slightly and let the soup simmer until the pasta is tender, about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the noodles don’t stick.
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Finish The Soup
- Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted.
- Remove the pot from heat, then swirl in the ricotta and parmesan cheeses. This will give the soup a creamy, cheesy consistency.
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Garnish And Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad on the side for a complete meal.
Ingredient Insights
Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients and how they contribute to the overall flavor and texture of this dish:
- Italian Sausage: This is the flavor powerhouse of the soup. Sausage imparts a rich, savory depth, and its fat helps create a comforting, almost luxurious texture in the broth.
- Ricotta Cheese: Adds creaminess and a slightly tangy flavor, just like the ricotta you’d layer in traditional lasagna.
- Lasagna Noodles: When broken up, these noodles cook directly in the soup, absorbing the flavors and becoming part of the broth. This eliminates the need for separate pasta prep and adds to the convenience.
- Spinach: Not only does it add a burst of color, but spinach is a great way to sneak in some greens. Its mild flavor blends well into the soup, providing extra nutrition without overpowering the dish.
- Crushed Tomatoes and Tomato Sauce: These are the base of your broth, adding both the sweet-tart tomato flavor and a smooth, rich consistency.
Expert Tips
Want to elevate your lasagna soup even further? Here are a few insider tips to help you cook like a pro:
- Make it Ahead: Lasagna soup is a great make-ahead meal. The flavors develop even more overnight, so you can make it a day or two in advance. Just be sure to store the noodles separately, as they will continue to absorb liquid and get mushy.
- Use Fresh Basil for Extra Flavor: Fresh basil is a wonderful touch when added just before serving. It adds a burst of freshness and complements the rich tomato flavor beautifully.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Lasagna noodles are hearty, but they can become soggy if overcooked. Stir them in towards the end and keep an eye on the pot to avoid mushy noodles.
- Add a Splash of Cream: If you want to make the soup extra creamy, add a splash of heavy cream when you stir in the cheeses.
Recipe Variations
The beauty of lasagna soup is in its versatility. Here are a few ways you can play around with the recipe:
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the sausage and replace it with chopped mushrooms or plant-based crumbles. You could also add extra veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots.
- Spicy Twist: For an extra kick, add more crushed red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage. You could even throw in a diced jalapeño for some heat.
- Meat Lovers’ Option: If you can’t get enough meat, try adding some ground beef or ground turkey along with the sausage for a more robust flavor profile.
- Dairy-Free: Swap out the ricotta and mozzarella for dairy-free cheese alternatives, or skip the cheese altogether for a lighter option.
Final Words
This Lasagna Soup with Sausage is an incredibly satisfying meal that combines the best elements of lasagna with the warmth and ease of a soup. With its hearty sausage, tender pasta, and rich, cheesy broth, it’s a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or preparing it in advance for a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.
FAQs
What Is Lasagna Soup With Sausage?
Lasagna soup with sausage is a variation of the classic lasagna, served as a comforting, hearty soup. It combines ingredients typically found in lasagna, such as pasta, sausage, ricotta, mozzarella, and marinara sauce, but in a broth-based, soup format, making it easier to prepare and perfect for colder months.
Can I Use Any Type Of Sausage For Lasagna Soup?
Yes, you can use various types of sausage for lasagna soup, including Italian sausage (mild or spicy), ground pork, turkey sausage, or even vegetarian sausage. The choice of sausage will affect the overall flavor of the soup, so choose one that fits your taste preferences.
Can I Make Lasagna Soup With Sausage Ahead Of Time?
Yes, lasagna soup can be made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors tend to develop even more after sitting for a few hours or overnight. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add extra broth if the soup has thickened too much.
Can I Freeze Lasagna Soup With Sausage?
Lasagna soup freezes well, though it’s best to freeze it before adding the pasta. Pasta can become mushy upon thawing. To freeze, cook the soup without the pasta, cool it, and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to eat, reheat the soup and add fresh pasta.
What Type Of Pasta Should I Use For Lasagna Soup?
You can use traditional lasagna noodles, broken into smaller pieces, or substitute with other pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or even mini shells. The goal is to have pasta that holds up well in a soup without becoming too soft or breaking apart.
How Can I Make Lasagna Soup With Sausage Gluten-free?
To make lasagna soup gluten-free, simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. There are many gluten-free pasta varieties available, such as rice, quinoa, or corn-based pasta, that work well in soups.
What Can I Use As A Substitute For Ricotta Cheese In Lasagna Soup?
If you don’t have ricotta cheese or prefer an alternative, you can use cottage cheese, cream cheese, mascarpone, or a mixture of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan for a similar creamy texture and flavor.
Can I Use Store-bought Marinara Sauce For Lasagna Soup?
Yes, store-bought marinara sauce can be used for convenience. However, for a richer flavor, consider adding a few extra seasonings, such as garlic, onion, and herbs, or simmering the sauce with some olive oil and balsamic vinegar to elevate the taste.
Is There A Way To Make Lasagna Soup With Sausage Spicier?
To make lasagna soup spicier, you can use spicy Italian sausage, add red pepper flakes, or mix in hot sauce or chopped jalapeños. Adjust the level of heat to your taste preference.
What Side Dishes Pair Well With Lasagna Soup With Sausage?
Lasagna soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes such as garlic bread, a fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette, or roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. A light antipasto platter with olives and cheese also makes a great accompaniment.