If you’re craving the cozy, comforting flavors of Italian lasagna but want a quicker, less fussy meal, this Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe is an absolute game-changer. It captures all the hearty, cheesy goodness of classic lasagna in a warm, soul-soothing bowl of soup that comes together in just about 40 minutes. Perfect for weeknights or anytime you want big flavor without the big effort, this recipe brings together savory Italian sausage, tender noodles, vibrant tomatoes, and melty cheeses in one irresistible pot.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward, pantry-friendly, and each plays a vital role in building the rich yet approachable taste and texture of this soup. From the robust Italian sausage to the fragrant fresh basil, every component enhances the flavor harmony in delicious ways.
- Italian sausage (1 pound): Adds savory depth and a little spice, forming the hearty base of the soup.
- Onion (1/2 medium, chopped): Brings natural sweetness and a beautiful aroma when sautéed.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Packs a punch of classic Italian flavor that ties the dish together.
- Crushed tomatoes (28 ounces): Provide tangy richness and the signature tomato sauce foundation.
- Beef broth (4 cups): Creates a savory, flavorful liquid that infuses the noodles and other ingredients.
- Water (1 cup): Balances the broth for perfect consistency.
- Italian seasoning (1/4 teaspoon): A subtle blend of herbs to elevate the soup’s overall profile.
- Lasagna noodles (10, broken into smaller pieces): The star pasta that gives the soup hearty texture and that unmistakable lasagna feel.
- Fresh basil (1–2 tablespoons, torn): Adds a fresh, bright note that keeps the flavors lively and aromatic.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance all the flavors.
- Toppings (ricotta, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella): Optional but highly recommended for creamy, cheesy indulgence on each spoonful.
How to Make Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Italian Sausage
Start by removing the Italian sausage from its casing if needed, then place the meat in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon and cook for about 5 minutes until browned and fragrant. This step builds the base flavor, ensuring the soup is hearty and full of meaty goodness. If there’s excess fat, drain it off so your soup doesn’t end up greasy.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic right into the browned sausage. Cook them together for 4 to 5 minutes until the onion softens and everything smells absolutely amazing. This softens the vegetables and releases their vibrant flavors, creating the classic Italian scent that will be filling your kitchen.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Broth, Water, and Seasoning
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and water, then sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the top. Stir everything gently to combine. This builds the rich and simmering tomato base for the soup, which is the hallmark of the recipe’s comforting character.
Step 4: Incorporate Noodles and Simmer
Throw in your broken lasagna noodles and increase the heat to bring the soup to a boiling point. Once boiling, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer, partially cover the pot, and cook the soup for about 15 minutes or until the noodles become tender. Keep stirring now and then to prevent sticking and to ensure everything cooks evenly, allowing all flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Prepare Your Cheese Toppings
While the soup simmers, take a moment to prep your toppings. Scoop the ricotta, grate the Parmesan, and shred the mozzarella so they’re ready to scoop right onto the soup as soon as it’s done. These toppings add the indulgent creamy and cheesy textures that make every bite feel like pure luxury.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Basil and Season to Taste
As the noodles finish cooking, stir in the torn fresh basil leaves—they add a fresh, herbal brightness that perfectly contrasts the rich broth and meats. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Then, ladle the soup into bowls and top generously with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan for that authentic lasagna flavor experience in soup form.
How to Serve Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe
Garnishes
When it comes to garnishes, the beauty of Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe is that you can really make it your own. Fresh basil leaves, a dollop of ricotta, and a sprinkling of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses not only look stunning but add layers of indulgent creaminess and freshness. A crack of black pepper on top rounds everything out perfectly.
Side Dishes
Serve this soup alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette or warm garlic bread crispy enough to sop up every last drop. Both options enhance the meal with complementary textures and flavor contrasts that balance the rich, hearty soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting presentation, serve the soup in rustic bowls or even mason jars for casual gatherings. Adding a small rosemary sprig or a drizzle of olive oil on top elevates the look. You might also place a small side bowl of extra shredded cheese or chili flakes on the table so everyone can customize their bowls exactly how they like it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container once the soup has cooled. Give it a good stir before reheating as the noodles tend to soak up the broth over time.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup, but keep in mind the pasta can become a little softer after thawing. To freeze, cool the soup completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for about 2 to 3 months, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick. For single servings, microwaving works too—just stir halfway through heating to ensure even warmth and to revive that cozy lasagna soup goodness.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Ground beef works well and will give you a milder flavor. If you use ground beef, consider adding extra herbs or a pinch of crushed red pepper to keep the dish flavorful.
Do the lasagna noodles need to be pre-cooked?
Nope! Breaking the uncooked lasagna noodles into smaller pieces and cooking them directly in the soup saves time and helps the noodles soak up all those delicious flavors.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, by swapping the Italian sausage for a plant-based sausage or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and adding vegetable broth instead of beef broth, you’ll maintain the richness and texture of this soup.
How spicy is this soup?
The recipe has a mild kick from the Italian sausage and seasoning, which most people find comforting rather than fiery. If you like heat, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Is this soup freezer-friendly with the cheese toppings?
It’s best to add the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan fresh when serving rather than freezing them with the soup. Cheese textures can change in the freezer, so fresh toppings will give you the best experience.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe truly brings together the best of comforting Italian flavors in a way that’s simple, satisfying, and totally doable on any weeknight. I hope you give it a try and fall in love with how effortlessly it transforms lasagna from a labor-intensive classic into a quick, cozy bowl of pure joy. Trust me, once you try it, this soup will become a favorite in your meal rotation!
Print
Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Easy Lasagna Soup recipe offers all the comforting flavors of classic lasagna in a hearty, warming soup that’s perfect for any night of the week. Packed with Italian sausage, tomatoes, tender pasta, and topped with ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses, this soup is a family-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare and satisfying to eat.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 10 uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into smaller pieces
- 1–2 tablespoons torn fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- Ricotta cheese (to taste)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (to taste)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (to taste)
Instructions
- Brown the sausage: Remove the Italian sausage meat from casings if using whole sausages. Add it to a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Brown the sausage for about 5 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary to avoid greasiness.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot with the browned sausage. Continue to cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent.
- Add liquids and pasta: Stir in crushed tomatoes, beef broth, water, Italian seasoning, and broken lasagna noodles. Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a rolling boil.
- Simmer the soup: Reduce heat to maintain a gentle boil, cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom.
- Prepare toppings: While the soup simmers, get your ricotta, parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses ready for serving.
- Season and serve: Stir torn fresh basil into the soup, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the soup hot, topping each bowl with dollops of ricotta and a sprinkle of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses as desired.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef or turkey for the Italian sausage if preferred.
- Adjust the amount and type of cheese toppings based on your dietary preferences or avoid them for a lighter version.
- For a spicier flavor, add red pepper flakes along with the Italian seasoning.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free lasagna noodles or substitute with another gluten-free pasta.
