Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup

This Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup is a delightful dish that brings the classic flavors of lasagna to your table in a fraction of the time. Perfect for busy weeknights, this soup can be made in under 40 minutes and is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. With its rich, creamy texture and hearty ingredients, it’s ideal for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Plus, you can easily adapt the recipe for stovetop, Instant Pot, or slow cooker methods.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup is ready in just 40 minutes, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners.
• Creamy Comfort: The addition of heavy cream gives this soup a rich and comforting texture that everyone will love.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Packed with ground beef, Italian herbs, and fresh basil, each bowl bursts with flavor reminiscent of traditional lasagna.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer stovetop or an Instant Pot, this recipe adapts to your cooking style effortlessly.
• Family-Friendly: Picky eaters will enjoy the familiar taste while parents appreciate the ease of preparation.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having these on hand will streamline your cooking process and ensure delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Ladle
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly without burning. It allows ample space for all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching the pot’s surface. It’s also sturdy enough to handle thick mixtures.
• Ladle: Makes serving soup easy and mess-free. It helps portion out servings perfectly every time.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion (finely diced)
• 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

For the Sauce

• 25 ounces tomato basil pasta sauce
• 28 ounces diced canned tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken broth (more if you want a thinner soup)
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt (divided or more to taste)

For the Noodles and Creaminess

• 12 lasagna noodles (uncooked and broken into 2 pieces)
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional)

For Toppings

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• 6 tablespoons fresh basil (finely chopped)

How to Make Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Base

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the finely diced onion and cook until soft.
3. Stir in the ground beef and sauté until browned all over.
4. Mix in minced garlic, red pepper flakes, kosher salt (1 teaspoon), dried oregano, and tomato paste; stir well.

Step 2: Add Sauces and Broth

1. Pour in the tomato basil pasta sauce and diced canned tomatoes.
2. Add chicken broth to the pot, bringing the mixture to a boil.
3. Once boiling, add broken lasagna noodles along with remaining kosher salt (1 teaspoon).
4. Lower heat and let simmer until noodles are tender.

Step 3: Create Creaminess

1. Stir in heavy cream for added richness; adjust thickness by adding more chicken broth if desired.
2. For an extra creamy texture, mix shredded mozzarella or parmesan directly into the soup.

Step 4: Serve with Toppings

1. Ladle soup into bowls.
2. Top each serving with ricotta cheese, additional mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, and fresh basil.
3. Enjoy your Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup!

How to Serve Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup

Serving Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup is a delightful experience. This dish not only tastes amazing but also offers various ways to enjoy it alongside your favorite accompaniments.

With Fresh Bread

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping, garlic bread adds a crunchy texture that complements the creamy soup.
• Crusty Baguette: Slice a fresh baguette for a classic pairing; its crusty exterior and soft interior are ideal for soaking up the soup.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• Shredded Mozzarella: Sprinkle some shredded mozzarella on top just before serving for a melty finish.
• Parmesan Shavings: Add freshly shaved parmesan for an extra burst of flavor and a lovely presentation.

With a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
• Caprese Salad: Combine fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella for a light and flavorful side that matches the Italian theme.

How to Perfect Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup

To make your Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup even better, consider these tips. They will enhance both the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh basil or parsley enhances the soup’s aroma and flavor profile.
• Adjust Consistency: For a thinner soup, incorporate more chicken broth until you achieve your desired texture.
• Sauté Ingredients Properly: Ensure the onion and garlic are cooked until fragrant before adding other ingredients for maximum flavor.
• Mix Cheeses Wisely: Stirring in mozzarella or parmesan while cooking creates an extra creamy texture that elevates the entire dish.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots perfect for dipping into the lasagna soup.
2. Antipasto Platter: A variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables offer an Italian flair.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers seasoned and roasted add healthy color and flavor.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and olive oil provides a fresh bite that complements the warm soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Filled with rice or quinoa, stuffed peppers make for a hearty side that pairs well with creamy soups.
6. Focaccia Bread: Soft Italian bread infused with herbs brings additional flavors to every spoonful of lasagna soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Not browning the beef properly: Failing to brown the beef can lead to a bland soup. Make sure to sauté until it’s fully browned for added flavor.
• Skipping the seasoning: Without enough salt and herbs, your soup may taste flat. Be generous with seasonings and taste as you go!
• Overcooking the noodles: Overcooked noodles become mushy in soup. Add them towards the end of cooking for the perfect texture.
• Ignoring cream alternatives: If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using plant-based cream substitutes. This maintains creaminess without extra calories.
• Forgetting fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds brightness to the dish. Always add it just before serving for maximum flavor impact.

 

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl; heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Stovetop: Gently warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup that might help you while cooking.

Can I make Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup vegetarian?

You can easily substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

How can I customize Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or mix in different cheeses based on your taste preference.

Can I use gluten-free pasta in this recipe?

Yes, gluten-free lasagna noodles work well! Just follow cooking instructions on the package for best results.

What if I want a spicier version of Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup?

Add more red pepper flakes or even diced jalapeños while cooking for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup is a delightful twist on traditional lasagna that brings comfort and satisfaction in every bowl. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences, whether that means adding extra veggies or experimenting with different cheeses. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own!