If you’re craving the incredible flavors of lasagna but looking for a simpler option, then this easy Lasagna Soup is about to change your weeknight dinners forever! With hearty ground beef, a medley of veggies, ruffled lasagna noodles, and—a real game changer—three types of cheese, this soup delivers all the comfort of lasagna in a cozy bowl. Trust me, you won’t be able to resist the melty goodness!
Budget Information
This delightful Lasagna Soup can be prepared for around $20, making it about $3.33 per serving for 6 hearty servings. Here’s how the budget breaks down:
- Ground Beef (1 lb): $5.00
- Butternut Squash (2 cups): $3.00
- Marinara Sauce (24 oz): $3.00
- Dried Lasagna Noodles (8 oz): $2.00
- Kale (3 cups): $2.00
- Ricotta Cheese (1¼ cups): $3.00
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (½ cup): $1.50
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (¼ cup): $1.50
- Onion, Garlic, and Spices: $2.00
Why This Recipe Works
Picture this: A warm bowl of rich tomato broth, hearty noodles enveloped in creamy goodness, and that classic lasagna flavor without the fuss! This Lasagna Soup is all the cozy comfort you love but takes a fraction of the time to prepare. Plus, the three types of cheese seamlessly blend to create depth and creaminess that’s simply irresistible. It’s perfect for busy nights or a comforting weekend treat!
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Let’s get cooking! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful soup:
- 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil ($0.30) – Essential for sautéing the veggies.
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped ($0.50) – This will form the flavor base.
- 6 cloves of garlic, minced ($0.50) – Adds depth and aroma.
- 1 pound of lean ground beef ($5.00) – Hearty and filling; swap for ground turkey if desired.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning ($0.30) – To enhance that classic Italian flavor.
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt ($0.10) – Essential for flavoring your soup.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper ($0.10) – Adds a gentle kick.
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg ($0.10) – For a warm spice note.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes ($0.10) – If you like a little heat!
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste ($0.40) – For richness and depth of flavor.
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth ($2.00) – Keeps the soup flavorsome.
- 2 cups of diced butternut squash ($3.00) – Sweet and nutritious; opt for pre-cut to save time.
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce ($3.00) – A shortcut to big tomato flavor.
- 8 ounces dried lasagna noodles ($2.00) – Break them up for easy cooking.
- 3 cups chopped kale or spinach ($2.00) – Adds nutrients; go for spinach if you prefer mild.
- 1¼ cups part-skim ricotta cheese ($1.50) – The creamy heart of your soup.
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese ($0.75) – For the ultimate cheese pull.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese ($0.75) – Completes the cheesy trifecta.
- ½ cup plus 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped ($1.50) – Freshness that can’t be beat!
- ¼ cup heavy cream ($0.50) – Optional, but it makes it extra creamy!
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Ready to dive into this deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!
Step 1: In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, and let it dance in that warm oil until it begins to soften, roughly 4 to 6 minutes. The sweet, caramelized aroma will make your kitchen smell divine. Toss in the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds, until fragrant—but don’t let it burn!
Step 2: Next, introduce the ground beef, Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon of salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and red pepper flakes to the pot. With a wooden spoon, break up the meat as it cooks. Let that simmer and begin to brown, about 3 to 5 minutes, as the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 3: Stir in the tomato paste, and let it cook for a full minute, blending it in with the meat and veggies like you’re creating a flavor explosion with every stir. This is where the richness starts!
Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth and add your diced butternut squash. Bring everything to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to keep a steady simmer. Let this bubble away uncovered for about 5 minutes. The squash should be tender yet still hold its shape.
Step 5: Now, add the marinara sauce to the pot and return to a boil. Stir in the broken lasagna noodles—feel free to throw in some good energy with those noodles! Let them simmer in that flavorful broth for 10 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent any sticking. Can you smell it yet?
Step 6: If you’re going with kale, add it now. If you opted for spinach, wait until the end to add it in for a better texture. Keep simmering for another 5 to 10 minutes until the noodles are tender and ready to dig into.
Step 7: Meanwhile, grab a medium bowl and combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, 2 tablespoons of chopped basil, and the remaining ¼ teaspoon of salt. Mix it all until well blended, creating delightful cheesy clouds.
Step 8: Remove the soup from heat and stir in the heavy cream and the rest of that lovely basil; it should feel creamy and comforting. While this simmers, shape the ricotta mixture into generous balls—think 1 to 1½ inches, perfectly formed little clouds of joy to float atop your soup.
Step 9: To serve, ladle that beautiful soup into bowls and float a few ricotta balls on top for an Instagram-worthy finish. Garnish with an extra sprinkle of fresh basil if you’re feeling fancy.
Nutritional Facts
Here’s what you’re getting per serving:
- Calories: 560
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Total Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 720mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you’ve got leftovers (lucky you!), let the soup cool and pop it into the fridge for up to 4 days. You can store the ricotta topping separately for about the same time. Want to stretch it even further? Freeze the soup for up to 3 months—just remember to keep the ricotta separate. Thaw it in the fridge before you warm it back up on the stove or in the microwave. Easy-peasy!
Serving Suggestions
This Lasagna Soup is a meal on its own, but if you want to elevate it, serve it with some crunchy Homemade Garlic Bread or warm No Knead Focaccia. An Italian Chopped Salad would perfectly round out the meal too, bringing fresh flavors that complement the richness of the soup!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
1. Feel free to customize this soup! Swap out veggies based on the season or what you have on hand. Mushrooms, zucchini, and even spinach can add a delightful twist.
2. For a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with cannellini beans!
3. If you’re short on time, pre-cut squash or even frozen veggies can save you a pinch.
4. Remember, freshly grated cheese melts better than the pre-shredded stuff—trust me, it’s worth it!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use different types of meat? Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work wonderfully in this recipe.
Can I make it ahead of time? Yes! This soup keeps well in the fridge for several days, making it perfect for meal prep!
What can I substitute for the heavy cream? You can use half-and-half or even omit it for a lighter version; just ensure to adjust seasoning accordingly.
Can I add more veggies? Yes! Feel free to experiment with your favorites, like zucchini, bell peppers, or even some green beans for extra crunch!
Is it really lasagna in soup form? Yes! It captures all the delicious flavors you love in lasagna but comes together in a comforting, cozy soup. Ready to dig in?
