I still remember the first time I made lasagna soup for my family. It was one of those chaotic evenings when I stared into the fridge trying to figure out what would satisfy everyone without turning me into a short-order cook. Lasagna soup came to my rescue – a warm, hearty blend of pasta and meat soup with all the comfort of classic lasagna, but in a cozy bowl. My kids’ eyes lit up when they took their first spoonful, and my husband declared it a new family favorite right away. For me, it meant peaceful smiles around the table instead of the usual mealtime tug-of-war.
This Italian lasagna soup quickly became a staple for us, especially on cooler nights. It feels like a cream tomato soup but with layers of flavor from the ground meat, herbs, and cheesy goodness that everyone loves. What surprised me most was how simple this lasagna soup recipe really is. No elaborate steps or fancy ingredients – just honest, comforting food that even the pickiest eaters ask for again. If you’ve been hunting for a pasta and meat soup that’s both fulfilling and fuss-free, this is it.
I’ve been cooking family meals for years now, juggling school lunches, after-school snacks, and dinners around dance recitals and work deadlines. Lasagna soup fits right into that rhythm. It’s quick to pull together, uses common pantry staples, and fills bellies with warmth and goodness that lasts beyond the meal. Fellow comfort seekers, if you’re craving a simple way to add a little magic to your mealtime without all the stress, keep reading. This lasagna soup will be your new go-to for cuddly food that’s kinder on your time and energy. Plus, I’m sharing my favorite hacks and tweaks that make this comfort food soup even better. Trust me, your family will thank you for it!
For more cozy soup ideas to keep your dinner lineup fresh, try this white lasagna soup recipe from MommiesMore or explore my creamy chicken parmesan soup for another satisfying twist. And when you’re in the mood for a little variety, this quick potsticker soup always comes through for our family.
INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:
Here’s the simple list for your lasagna soup – no complicated shopping trips needed!
- 1 pound lean ground beef or Italian sausage (you can swap for ground turkey for a lighter touch)
- 1 medium onion, chopped (adds that cozy aroma to your soup base)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (flavor booster you don’t want to skip)
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes (this is the heart of your cream tomato soup base)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or beef broth (go with broth over water for deeper flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (classic herb blend that layers your taste)
- 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces (don’t worry if you use regular pasta, my family enjoys it just the same)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (this adds creaminess to your soup, but cottage cheese works in a pinch)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella (because cheese is comfort in every bite)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional but lovely for presentation and freshness)
If you’re pressed for time, buy pre-minced garlic or frozen chopped onions. These little shortcuts keep your lasagna soup cooking time trim without losing flavor. And the best part? You can find all these ingredients at your regular grocery store without hunting specialty aisles or breaking your budget.
My family gets extra comfort when I stir in ricotta at the end — it transforms this pasta and meat soup into a creamy, dreamy bowl every time. For a budget-friendly swap, shredded cheddar makes a great stand-in for mozzarella, keeping your lasagna soup just as tasty and wallet-friendly.
If you want to see a comfort-powered slow cooker version to save even more time, check out this easy slow cooker lasagna soup recipe – it’s a game changer for busy weeks!
Let’s Make it Happen!
Ready to make lasagna soup magic? Let’s cook together with these steps:
- Brown your meat: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add your ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Break the meat apart as it cooks — smell those meaty, savory notes? That’s your first comfort win. Drain excess fat, then add chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until onions soften.
- Add the liquids and seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer – your kitchen should start smelling like cozy Italian comfort soon. Simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes to let flavors mingle.
- Cook the noodles: Toss in broken lasagna noodles directly into the pot. Stir gently to prevent sticking. Cook until noodles are tender, about 10 minutes. Tip: This is perfect downtime for you – prep school lunches or relax for a bit knowing dinner is on track.
- Add the creamy touch: Lower heat to medium-low. Dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese into each bowl when serving, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella. Your family will love stirring in these creamy bits (and you’ll love how quickly it all comes together!).
- Garnish and serve: Finely chop basil or parsley for a fresh finish. Serve your lasagna soup hot with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.
I used to fuss over getting the seasoning just right. What helped me was tasting the soup before adding noodles, adjusting salt little by little. Don’t worry if your lasagna soup looks a bit saucier than usual — that thick, creamy tomato broth is exactly what you want for the best comfort food soup experience.
Need a shortcut? Extra cheese lovers can stir mozzarella right into the soup near the end for oozy goodness. Also, leftovers taste incredible the next day and freeze well — perfect for crazy weeks!
Our family has embraced the cozy chaos that lasagna soup brings to the table, making dinner easier and more satisfying. Want to see a cute take on Italian lasagna soup from a fellow comfort seeker? Check out this heartwarming Facebook post for inspiration.
How We Love to Eat This!
Lasagna soup has won over my kids’ appetites faster than I expected. I serve it with garlic breadsticks or a crisp Caesar salad for a well-rounded meal that balances creamy and fresh. The kids love dunking bread into the soup, making dinner a fun mix of textures.
This comforting lasagna soup shines best on chilly nights or after a busy day when everyone needs a little warmth. It’s a fantastic crowd-pleaser for casual Sunday dinners or even comforting lunches on the weekend. I’ve even packed it up for family gatherings, where friends gush over the rich flavors and cheesy goodness.
Leftovers? Oh yes! Cold nights call for reheated bowls topped with extra cheese and fresh herbs. Some days, we add vegetables like spinach or zucchini to sneak in more greens without anyone noticing. My family appreciates this cream tomato soup base because it feels indulgent but wholesome.
For quick sides, you could toss together a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or roast some garlic parmesan veggies. If you’re looking to switch things up, I’ve tried white lasagna soup (like this MommiesMore classic) and it’s equally soul-satisfying – perfect when you want a lighter but still creamy comfort meal.
Friends who’ve tasted this pasta and meat soup always ask for the recipe because it hits that familiar lasagna flavor in a new, slurpable form. It’s authentic Italian comfort, served in a bowl!
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Is this lasagna soup really filling enough for growing kids?
Absolutely! The combination of meat, pasta, and cheese makes this Italian lasagna soup a hearty meal. My kiddos stay energized after dinner and rarely ask for snacks immediately.
My picky eater won’t try this lasagna soup. Any tricks?
Try serving a small portion with cheese on top and a side they love, like garlic bread. Let them mix in ricotta themselves—it makes it fun and less intimidating.
Can I meal prep lasagna soup for busy weeks?
Yes! This soup freezes beautifully. Portion it into airtight containers and thaw during busy days for a satisfying comfort food soup that feels fresh.
What if I don’t have lasagna noodles?
Use any pasta you have—rotini or penne works great! My family enjoys it just the same, and it saves a trip to the store.
Is this more like a cream tomato soup or a pasta and meat soup?
It’s a cozy combo of both! The creamy ricotta and tomato base feel like a cream tomato soup, but the broken noodles and meat add a full pasta and meat soup experience.
How can I make it lower in calories but still comforting?
Swap ground beef for ground turkey, skip extra cheese, and use low-sodium broth. Adding veggies like zucchini or mushrooms boosts nutrition and volume, keeping it hearty.
Can I make this lasagna soup in a crockpot?
You sure can! For a slow cooker version, this easy recipe is a lifesaver when you want dinner waiting for you after a busy day.
For more tips and ideas, you’ll love the cozy chicken parmesan soup I often pair with lasagna soup nights, found right here. Plus, for a change of pace, our potsticker soup always delivers on comfort.
Final Thoughts:
Lasagna soup continues to be a hero in my family’s kitchen because it hits every comfort food goal we have: quick, satisfying, and full of flavor. My lasagna soup comfort hacks that keep me sane:
- Use pre-minced garlic and frozen chopped onions to save prep time
- Always break noodles into small pieces so kids eat easily
- Add ricotta dolloped at serving for creamy richness without fuss
We’ve tried several family-tested variations: swapping beef for Italian sausage (my husband’s fave), making a white lasagna soup with creamy béchamel instead of tomato (great for picky eaters), and adding kale or spinach for an extra veggie boost (my health-conscious sister’s pick). Everyone has their version they love!
I encourage you to make this lasagna soup your own. Swap ingredients, tweak seasonings, and serve it with your family’s favorite sides. It’s all about simple comfort that fits your busy days and brings smiles around the table. I hope this soup becomes a comforting hug in a bowl for your family, just like it did for mine. Don’t hesitate to dive into this satisfying recipe and celebrate one more dinnertime win!
For inspiration beyond lasagna soup, check out this lovely Facebook share reminding us all how “lasagna soup is like a big hug in a bowl” — it’s the perfect encouragement to cozy up with this meal.
Happy cooking, fellow comfort seekers!
Lasagna Soup
Lasagna Soup delivers all the comforting flavors of classic lasagna in a warm, hearty bowl perfect for cozy dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Add broken lasagna noodles and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
- Ladle soup into bowls and top each with a spoonful of ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired and serve hot.
Notes
For an extra creamy texture, stir ricotta cheese directly into the soup before serving or add extra mozzarella for topping.