Ultimate Lasagna Soup

Transforming a beloved Italian classic into a comforting, one-pot wonder, this Lasagna Soup offers all the rich, savory flavors of traditional lasagna without the elaborate layering. Imagine tender ground beef and savory Italian sausage simmered in a robust marinara sauce with perfectly cooked lasagna noodles, all crowned with a luscious, creamy three-cheese topping. It’s a hearty, incredibly easy-to-make dish that consistently earns rave reviews from everyone at the dinner table, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a cozy weekend treat.

Why This Lasagna Soup is a Must-Try

This lasagna soup isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, bringing together the cherished flavors of Italy in a delightfully convenient format. Here’s why this recipe stands out as an absolute family favorite:

• Unforgettable Flavor and Heartiness: This soup is a symphony of rich flavors. It begins with perfectly browned Italian sausage and lean ground beef, sautéed with aromatic fresh onion and garlic to build a deep savory foundation. A vibrant marinara sauce and wholesome chicken broth are then introduced, allowing the medley of ingredients to slow-simmer for 45 minutes. This extended simmer time is crucial, as it allows all the distinct flavors to meld and intensify, creating a deeply satisfying broth that tastes like it’s been cooking for hours. Finally, broken lasagna noodles are added, cooking directly in the flavorful broth until they reach tender perfection. Each bowl is then generously topped with an irresistible blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, providing that iconic creamy, cheesy finish that defines classic lasagna.
• Incredibly Simple, One-Pot Preparation: Forget the tedious layering and multiple dishes of traditional lasagna. This soup simplifies the entire process, making it genuinely super easy to prepare. After the initial browning of the meats and sautéing of the aromatics, the bulk of the cooking time involves passively simmering the soup base. This means less hands-on effort and more time for you. Everything comes together in a single pot, drastically cutting down on cleanup time. This one-pot convenience makes it an ideal candidate for busy weeknights when you crave a homemade meal but are short on time.
• Endlessly Customizable for Every Palate: One of the best aspects of this lasagna soup is its incredible versatility. It’s a fantastic canvas for personalization, allowing you to tailor it to your family’s preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Want to lighten it up? Swap the Italian sausage for turkey sausage or use ground chicken. Don’t have lasagna noodles? No problem! Almost any pasta shape works beautifully – think bowtie, rotini, penne, or even small shells. Looking to boost your vegetable intake? Incorporate finely diced zucchini, yellow squash, bell peppers, or a handful of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of simmering. This adaptability ensures that the soup can be a regular rotation in your meal plan, always fresh and exciting.

Chef’s Expert Tips for the Perfect Lasagna Soup

Elevate your lasagna soup from good to extraordinary with these expert tips and tricks:

• Pasta Perfection – Beyond Lasagna Noodles: While classic lasagna noodles are fantastic, don’t let their absence deter you! This soup is incredibly forgiving when it comes to pasta choice. Feel free to use any medium-sized pasta you have in your pantry, such as bowtie (farfalle), rotini, cavatappi, penne, or even broken spaghetti. Each shape will absorb the rich flavors of the broth beautifully. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly for different pasta types, so keep an eye on them to ensure they are al dente and not overcooked. The goal is tender, not mushy, pasta.
• The Cheese Factor – Freshly Grated Makes a Difference: While pre-shredded cheeses are convenient, opting for freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano and mozzarella will significantly enhance the texture and flavor of your cheese topping. Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can prevent them from melting smoothly, sometimes resulting in a gritty texture. Freshly grated cheese, on the other hand, melts into a wonderfully creamy, luscious topping that integrates seamlessly with the hot soup. A simple box grater is all you need, and the extra few minutes of effort are truly worth the superior result.
• Building Deep Flavor: Don’t rush the browning of your meat. Allowing the ground beef and Italian sausage to get a good sear and develop a deep brown crust before adding other ingredients is key to unlocking maximum flavor. This caramelization adds a depth that simply boiling the meat won’t achieve. Similarly, sautéing the onions until translucent and the garlic until fragrant before adding liquids helps build the foundational aromatic notes of the soup.
• Seasoning is Key: Taste your soup as it simmers and again before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to your preference. Remember that broth and marinara sauces can vary in their sodium content, so continuous tasting ensures a perfectly balanced flavor profile. A final sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also brighten the flavors just before serving.

Ingredients for Your Savory Lasagna Soup

Crafting the perfect lasagna soup begins with a selection of high-quality ingredients that build layers of flavor and texture:

• Olive Oil: The starting point for sautéing, adding a foundational richness.
• Ground Meat: A combination of lean ground sirloin and bulk mild Italian sausage provides an ideal balance of beefy depth and aromatic spice. For a spicier kick, use hot Italian sausage.
• Aromatics: Finely chopped onion and minced garlic are essential for building the classic Italian flavor base. Don’t skimp on these!
• Seasonings: Crushed red pepper flakes add a subtle warmth and hint of spice, dried oregano brings classic Italian herb notes, while salt and freshly cracked black pepper enhance all the flavors.
• Liquid Base: Low sodium chicken broth forms the bulk of the soup, offering a savory foundation without overpowering the other ingredients. A high-quality marinara sauce is crucial here, providing the signature tomato richness and slightly sweet tang.
• Cheesy Topping: A luxurious blend of ricotta cheese (for creaminess), shredded mozzarella cheese (for that melty stretch), and finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese (for sharp, nutty depth) creates the iconic lasagna topping. Ensure all cheeses are at room temperature for the best melting consistency.
• Lasagna Noodles: Broken lasagna noodles are the star pasta, absorbing the rich broth and adding a delightful chew.
• Optional Garnishes: Fresh torn basil and Italian parsley not only add beautiful color but also a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor that complements the robust soup.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Lasagna Soup

Follow these simple steps to create a hearty and delicious one-pot lasagna soup that will become a new family favorite:

1. Brown the Meats: Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large soup pot over high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add 1 pound of ground sirloin and 6 ounces of bulk mild Italian sausage (casings removed if using links). Using a spatula, break the meat into small, even pieces. Allow the meat to cook undisturbed until the liquid evaporates and it starts to sizzle in its own fat. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the meat is deeply browned, which should take approximately 7 minutes. This browning step is crucial for developing rich flavor.
2. Sauté the Aromatics and Seasonings: To the browned meat, add 1 cup of finely chopped onion, 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, 1 pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, ½ teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Cook and stir these ingredients until the onions become translucent and softened, which usually takes 3 to 4 minutes. The kitchen will begin to fill with wonderful aromas!
3. Simmer the Soup Base: Carefully stir in 1 (32-ounce) can of low sodium chicken broth and 24 ounces (about 3 cups) of your favorite marinara sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat. Once it begins to simmer, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot partially, and let it cook for 45 minutes. This extended simmering time allows all the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully.
4. Prepare the Cheesy Topping: While the soup base simmers, prepare your creamy cheese topping. In a large separate bowl, combine 12 ounces of ricotta cheese, 3 ounces of shredded mozzarella cheese, and ½ cup of finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Stir until all the cheeses are well combined and smooth. Set this mixture aside at room temperature.
5. Cook the Lasagna Noodles: After the soup has simmered for 45 minutes, increase the heat to medium-high. Carefully stir in 8 lasagna noodles, broken into manageable pieces (usually in half). Cook, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender to your liking, which typically takes about 10 minutes. Once the noodles are cooked, reduce the heat to low to keep the soup warm.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the hot lasagna soup into individual serving bowls. For the full lasagna experience, place a generous scoop of the prepared three-cheese mixture on top of each bowl. If desired, garnish with fresh torn basil and Italian parsley for a burst of color and fresh herbaceousness. Serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This lasagna soup is fantastic fresh, but it also lends itself well to meal prepping and future enjoyment:

• Make-Ahead Option: To prepare this soup in advance, follow all the instructions up to the point of adding the noodles and the cheese mixture (steps 1-3). Allow the soup base to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply bring the soup base to a boil on the stovetop, then add the broken lasagna noodles and cook until they are tender. Serve with the freshly prepared cheese mixture. This method ensures the noodles don’t get mushy.
• Freezer Storage: Lasagna soup is incredibly freezer-friendly, provided you plan ahead for the pasta. Prepare the soup as instructed, stopping before you add the noodles or the cheese mixture. Let the soup base cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight, freezer-safe container or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw the soup base in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat until it comes to a boil. Once boiling, add the noodles and cook until they are tender. Prepare the fresh cheese mixture just before serving.

Variations to Customize Your Lasagna Soup

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your lasagna soup! Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Vegetable Boost: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding finely diced carrots and celery along with the onions, or stir in a few handfuls of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of simmering. Roasted bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can also be delicious additions.
• Leaner Meat Options: For a lighter version, use all ground turkey or ground chicken instead of beef and sausage. Adjust seasonings as needed, as poultry can be milder in flavor.
• Spicier Kick: If you love heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage. A dash of cayenne pepper can also be added.
• Creamier Texture: For an even richer, creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the meat entirely! Sauté extra mushrooms, finely chopped eggplant, or use a plant-based ground substitute to create a hearty vegetarian lasagna soup. Boost umami with a spoonful of tomato paste.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lasagna Soup

Here are answers to common questions about making and enjoying lasagna soup:

• Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles? Yes, you can! No-boil lasagna noodles work well in this soup. They typically cook faster, so reduce the cooking time mentioned in the recipe and monitor them closely to prevent overcooking.
• How can I make this soup thicker? If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the cooked noodles against the side of the pot with a spoon or use an immersion blender for a few quick pulses (be careful not to over-blend). Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the simmering soup to thicken it slightly.
• Can I make it vegetarian? Absolutely! Omit the ground beef and Italian sausage. Instead, you can use plant-based ground meat substitutes, sautéed mushrooms, or lentils as your hearty base. Ensure your broth is vegetable broth.
• How long does lasagna soup last in the fridge? The soup base (without noodles) can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Once the noodles are added, the soup is best enjoyed within 2 days, as the noodles will continue to absorb liquid and soften over time.
• What kind of marinara sauce is best? A good quality marinara sauce will make a significant difference. Choose your favorite brand, or use homemade marinara if you have it. Look for sauces with simple ingredients and rich tomato flavor.

🍝 More Italian-Inspired Meals We Love

• Eggplant Lasagna
• Shrimp Carbonara
• Chicken Francese
• Chicken Milanese
• Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Marinara
• Salmon Piccata
• Shrimp Parmesan
• Chicken Spiedini
• Firebirds’ Chicken Pasta Copycat
• Alfredo Linguini with Homemade Alfredo Sauce
• Olive Garden Capellini Primavera

Recipe By: Cheryl Malik

Rating: 5 Stars from 2 votes

Lasagna Soup

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Lasagna soup features a rich tomato base, infused with Italian sausage, ground beef, and tender lasagna noodles. It’s perfectly complemented by an irresistible ricotta cheese mixture, delivering all the comforting flavors you adore from the classic layered dish.

Cheryl Malik

Yields: 6 servings

Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Spatula
• Wooden spoon
• Large bowl
• Large spoon or silicone spatula
• Ladle (for serving)

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground sirloin
• 6 ounces bulk mild Italian sausage (about 2 large Italian sausage links, casing removed)
• 1 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 (32-ounce) can low sodium chicken broth
• 24 ounces marinara sauce (about 3 cups)
• 12 ounces ricotta cheese (at room temperature)
• 3 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese (at room temperature)
• ½ cup finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
• 8 lasagna noodles (broken in half)

Serving Suggestions (Optional)

• Torn fresh basil
• Italian parsley

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large soup pot over high heat. Add 1 pound ground sirloin and 6 ounces bulk mild Italian sausage. Use a spatula to break the meat into small pieces. Cook without stirring until liquid evaporates and meat begins to sizzle and brown, approximately 7 minutes.
2. Add 1 cup finely chopped onion, 1 tablespoon minced garlic, 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, and 1 teaspoon salt. Cook and stir until onions turn translucent, 3 to 4 minutes.
3. Carefully stir in 1 (32-ounce) can low sodium chicken broth and 24 ounces marinara sauce. Bring to a simmer. Once simmering, reduce heat to medium-low and continue to simmer for 45 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
4. While the soup simmers, prepare the cheese mixture. Add 12 ounces ricotta cheese, 3 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese, and ½ cup finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese to a large bowl. Stir until well combined. Set aside.
5. After the soup has simmered for 45 minutes, increase heat to medium-high. Stir in 8 lasagna noodles (broken in half). Cook, stirring until pasta is tender, about 10 minutes. Reduce heat to low.
6. Ladle soup into desired serving bowls. Serve with one generous scoop of the cheese mixture on top. Garnish with torn fresh basil and Italian parsley, if desired.

Notes

• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the soup, stopping before adding the noodles or the cheese mixture. Store the soup base in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, bring the soup to a boil, then add the noodles and cook until tender. Serve with the freshly prepared cheese mixture.
• Freezer Storage: Make the soup, stopping before adding the noodles or the cheese mixture. Let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight, freezer-safe container in the freezer for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw the soup. Heat over the stovetop over medium heat until boiling. Once boiling, add the noodles and cook until tender. Serve with the cheese mixture.

Approximate Nutrition Information for One Serving

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 661 cal
Protein: 40 g
Fat: 37 g
Saturated Fat: 16 g
Trans Fat: 1 g
Cholesterol: 120 mg
Sodium: 1514 mg
Potassium: 982 mg
Total Carbs: 42 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sugar: 7 g
Net Carbs: 38 g
Vitamin A: 923 IU
Vitamin C: 11 mg
Calcium: 324 mg
Iron: 4 mg

Nutrition Disclaimers

Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.

Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.

To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. The result will be the weight of one serving.