Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe: Cheesy Beef & Tomato Pasta

Lasagna Soup brings you the comforting taste of traditional lasagna without the fuss. This Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe: Cheesy Beef & Tomato Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With rich flavors and creamy textures, it’s a crowd-pleaser that captures all the essence of classic lasagna in a delightful soup form.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: No need for layering or baking; this one-pot meal comes together in less than 90 minutes.
• Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with ground beef, tomatoes, and cheese, it’s a filling dish that warms you up.
• Versatile: Perfect for any occasion—from cozy family dinners to casual get-togethers.
• Flavorful Comfort: Infused with Italian herbs, each spoonful offers a burst of flavor that feels like home.
• Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients or toppings based on your personal preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the right tools on hand. The following equipment will help you create the perfect lasagna soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking everything in one vessel, ensuring even heat distribution.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while browning meat and mixing ingredients.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for preparing the creamy ricotta topping separately before adding it to the soup.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
• 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil (or 2 tbsp fresh, chopped)
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 6 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup beef broth (non-alcoholic alternative for red apple vinegar)
• 10-12 lasagna noodles, broken into 1-2 inch pieces
• 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
• 1/2 cup fresh Italian parsley, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 tsp granulated sugar (optional)

For the Creamy Ricotta Topping:

• 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
• 1 large egg (optional)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Pinch of black pepper

For Serving and Garnish:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Extra fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley
• Crusty garlic bread or warm baguette

How to Make Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe: Cheesy Beef & Tomato Pasta

Step 1: Sauté Meat and Aromatics

Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and brown thoroughly, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Next, add the diced onion and cook for about 5–7 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic along with dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Deglaze and Build Tomato Base

Pour in the beef broth (substituting for red apple vinegar) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Allow this liquid to reduce for about 2–3 minutes. Then stir in the tomato paste and cook for another couple of minutes before adding both crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes (with their juice).

Step 3: Simmer Soup Base

Pour in the remaining beef or vegetable broth. Stir well to combine, then bring everything to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover partially, and let simmer for about 30–60 minutes. This allows all flavors to meld together beautifully; taste periodically to adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional sugar as needed.

Step 4: Cook Lasagna Noodles

While your soup simmers away, break your lasagna noodles into irregular pieces about 1–2 inches long. Increase heat back to medium-high until you reach a rolling boil again. Add these broken noodles into your soup immediately while stirring to prevent sticking. Reduce heat once more to medium-low and cook uncovered for about 10–12 minutes until al dente.

Step 5: Finish Soup and Prepare Ricotta Topping

Once your noodles are perfectly cooked, stir in whole milk or heavy cream along with fresh chopped Italian parsley. Give it a taste test; adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat when satisfied with flavors. In a separate bowl while waiting on your soup, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, optional egg, salt, and a pinch of black pepper—mix thoroughly.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle generous portions of your hot soup into individual bowls. Add a dollop (about 2–3 tbsp) of that creamy ricotta mixture right in the center of each serving. Top generously with shredded mozzarella cheese before garnishing with extra fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley. Serve immediately alongside crusty garlic bread or warm baguette slices for a complete meal experience!

How to Serve Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe: Cheesy Beef & Tomato Pasta

Serving Easy Lasagna Soup is an opportunity to impress your family and guests with a cozy, hearty meal. The creamy ricotta topping and melty mozzarella create a delightful presentation that makes each bowl irresistible.

Individual Bowls

• Ladle the soup into deep bowls for a rustic feel. Top each serving with a generous dollop of creamy ricotta, allowing it to melt slightly into the hot broth.

Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. This simple touch enhances the flavor and visual appeal of the dish.

Bread Pairing

• Serve with crusty garlic bread or warm baguettes alongside. These are perfect for soaking up the delicious soup and add an extra layer of comfort.

Salad Side

• Offer a light side salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette. This balances the richness of the soup while adding freshness to the meal.

How to Perfect Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe: Cheesy Beef & Tomato Pasta

Perfecting your Easy Lasagna Soup ensures that every bowl bursts with flavor. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Selecting fresh tomatoes or high-quality canned tomatoes can significantly enhance the flavor of your soup.
• Brown the Meat Well: Searing the ground beef until it’s nicely browned adds depth to the overall taste of your lasagna soup.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference for a personalized flavor profile.
• Cook Noodles Al Dente: To prevent mushiness, cook lasagna noodles just until al dente since they will continue cooking in the broth after being added.
• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different cheeses like provolone or gouda for varied flavors in your creamy topping.
• Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better when made in advance, allowing flavors to meld overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe: Cheesy Beef & Tomato Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Lasagna Soup creates a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this comforting dish perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic accompaniment, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect for dipping into the rich soup.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine topped with creamy Caesar dressing and croutons provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized add sweetness and texture that pairs beautifully with lasagna soup.

4. Italian Antipasto Platter
   A mix of olives, marinated artichokes, and roasted peppers offers bold flavors that enhance your meal’s Italian theme.

5. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a light yet flavorful side that complements the soup.

6. Stuffed Mushrooms
   Baked mushrooms filled with herbs and cheese make for an elegant finger food option that matches well with cheesy lasagna soup.

7. Pasta Salad
   A chilled pasta salad tossed with vegetables and Italian dressing brings a nice contrast in temperature while echoing pasta flavors.

8. Zucchini Fritters
   Crispy fritters made from grated zucchini add crunchiness and are a delightful addition alongside your warm soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Lasagna Soup, it’s important to steer clear of common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping Aromatics: Neglecting to sauté onions and garlic can lead to a flat flavor. Always start your soup by cooking these ingredients until fragrant.

• Overcooking Noodles: Adding lasagna noodles too early can result in mushy pasta. Break them into pieces and add them only when the soup is simmering.

• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can make your soup bland. Don’t forget to check for salt, pepper, and optional sugar to balance acidity.

• Using Low-Quality Tomatoes: Cheap canned tomatoes can lack flavor. Opt for high-quality crushed and diced tomatoes for a rich tomato base.

• Forgetting the Cheese Topping: Skipping the creamy ricotta topping means missing out on a key flavor component. Always prepare it for a delicious finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Easy Lasagna Soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe: Cheesy Beef & Tomato Pasta

• Divide the soup into portions using freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing.

Reheating Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe: Cheesy Beef & Tomato Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe: Cheesy Beef & Tomato Pasta:

Can I make this Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

How long does it take to prepare this Easy Lasagna Soup?

Preparation takes about 20 minutes, followed by around 65 minutes of cooking time for a total of about 85 minutes.

Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or lamb can be excellent substitutes for beef if you want a different flavor profile.

What can I serve with Easy Lasagna Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty garlic bread or a warm baguette for dipping and enhancing your meal experience.

How do I store leftovers from this recipe?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze portions for later use.

Final Thoughts

Easy Lasagna Soup is not just comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables or using different meats. This cheesy beef and tomato pasta dish is perfect for family dinners or when you need something hearty without much fuss. Give it a try, and enjoy each flavorful spoonful!