Get ready for a warm hug in a bowl with my One-Pan Lasagna Soup! This easy recipe combines classic lasagna flavors in just one pot. With simple ingredients like ground beef, fresh spinach, and gooey cheese, you’ll have a cozy meal in no time. Perfect for busy nights, this soup simplifies dinner while delivering flavor. Join me as we create a comforting dish you'll crave again and again!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This one-pan recipe simplifies meal prep by combining all ingredients into one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
- Comfort Food: This lasagna soup delivers all the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna in a warm, cozy bowl.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe by swapping in your favorite proteins or vegetables to suit your taste.
- Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 35 minutes, it's perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal fast.
Ingredients
To make this comforting one-pan lasagna soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Each ingredient plays a key role. The olive oil adds richness. The onion and garlic provide a strong base flavor. Ground beef or sausage gives the soup its hearty feel. Crushed tomatoes offer a sweet acidity. Broth adds depth. Dried herbs like oregano and basil give that classic Italian taste. Red pepper flakes can bring some heat if you like.
Lasagna noodles are the star here, turning into tender bites. Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition. Ricotta and mozzarella cheese make each bowl creamy and cheesy. Finish with fresh basil for a bright touch.
These ingredients come together to create a warm and satisfying meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Overview
1. Cooking the aromatics
Start by heating one tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot. Use medium heat. Add one diced onion. Cook for about five minutes until the onion is soft and clear. Then, add three minced garlic cloves. Cook for one more minute until you smell the garlic's strong aroma.
2. Browning the meat
Next, add one pound of ground beef or Italian sausage to the pot. Break the meat apart with a spoon. Cook it for six to eight minutes until it turns brown. If there is extra fat, drain it. This helps keep your soup from being too greasy.
3. Combining ingredients
Now, pour in one can of crushed tomatoes and four cups of broth. This adds richness to your soup. Stir in one teaspoon of dried oregano, one teaspoon of dried basil, and half a teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a light simmer.
4. Cooking the noodles
Break eight lasagna noodles into smaller pieces. Add them to the pot and stir well. Let the noodles cook for about ten to twelve minutes. Stir occasionally. You want them tender but not mushy.
5. Adding spinach and serving
Once the noodles are cooked, fold in two cups of fresh spinach. Let it wilt for two to three minutes. This adds color and nutrients. Serve the soup hot in bowls. Top each serving with a dollop of ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Finish with fresh basil leaves for a nice touch.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your One-Pan Lasagna Soup
- Adjusting seasoning: Taste your soup as it cooks. Add salt, pepper, or herbs to enhance flavor. Fresh herbs like basil can really brighten the dish.
- Choosing the right meat: Use ground beef for a rich taste or Italian sausage for a spicy kick. Both options work well. Mix them for added depth!
- Tips for noodle texture: Break the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces. This helps them cook evenly. Stir them gently to avoid clumping.
- Adding more vegetables: Feel free to toss in veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. They add color and nutrition. Just chop them small so they cook fast.
These tips will make your soup even more delicious and satisfying. Enjoy each bowl of comfort!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil can enhance the flavor of your soup significantly. Add it at the end for the best aroma and taste.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder soup, omit the red pepper flakes or reduce the amount according to your taste.
- Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef or sausage with mushrooms or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Perfect Noodle Texture: To prevent overcooked noodles, check for doneness a minute or two before the recommended time and adjust accordingly.
Variations
Customizing Your Soup
You can easily change this one-pan lasagna soup to fit your tastes. Here are some ideas:
- Vegetarian alternative: Replace the meat with mushrooms or lentils. This adds flavor and protein. Use vegetable broth for a richer taste.
- Different protein options: If you want, swap ground beef for turkey or chicken. You could even use Italian sausage. Each choice gives a new twist to the soup.
- Dairy-free adjustments: For a dairy-free version, skip the ricotta and mozzarella. Use cashew cream or a dairy-free cheese that melts well. This keeps your soup creamy without dairy.
- Spice level modifications: Want more heat? Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. For a milder soup, leave out the red pepper flakes. You can always adjust to your spice level.
These variations let you make the soup your own. Enjoy trying new combinations!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
- Refrigeration guidelines: Cool the soup to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to four days.
- Freezing instructions: For longer storage, freeze the soup. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. It can last up to three months. Remember to leave space for expansion.
- Reheating methods: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen. Heat on the stove over medium heat. Stir often to avoid sticking. You can also use a microwave in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in intervals, stirring between each, until hot. Enjoy it warm!
FAQs
Common Questions About One-Pan Lasagna Soup
Can I make this in advance? Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. It tastes great after sitting overnight. Just let it cool before storing it in the fridge.
How to store and reheat leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat. Stir often to prevent sticking. You can also use the microwave, but check every minute to keep it from getting too hot.
What can I serve with lasagna soup? This soup pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
How can I make it spicier? To add heat, use more red pepper flakes. You can also add a dash of hot sauce while cooking. For a different kick, try adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Is it possible to make this soup gluten-free? Yes, you can make this soup gluten-free. Use gluten-free lasagna noodles instead. Check that your broth and other ingredients are also gluten-free. This keeps everyone happy and healthy.
This blog post guides you to create one-pan lasagna soup, covering essential ingredients, clear instructions, and helpful tips. You learned about ingredient choices like olive oil, fresh spinach, and ricotta cheese. The step-by-step guide ensures you can cook it perfectly every time. I also shared ways to customize the soup to fit your taste and how to store leftovers properly. Enjoy experimenting with this dish as your new family favorite!
