As the sun sets and a chill fills the air, I find myself craving a meal that wraps me in warmth—a dish that feels like a comforting hug. That’s where this Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup comes in. It brings all the rich, satisfying flavors of classic lasagna to the table, but in a cozy soup form that’s perfect for busy weeknights. You’re going to love how quick it is to prepare, and its creamy texture makes it a hit among both kids and adults. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; whether you use a stovetop, Instant Pot, or slow cooker, you can whip up this family-friendly meal in no time. What variations will you try to make it your own?
Why Is This Lasagna Soup So Special?
Comforting, this Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup is like a warm blanket in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings. Quick to Prepare, it comes together in about 30 minutes, fitting seamlessly into your busy schedule. Versatile Cooking Options let you choose stovetop, Instant Pot, or slow cooker, catering to your kitchen style. Child-Friendly Flavor means even picky eaters will ask for seconds, making it a winner for family meals. Easy Customization allows you to mix in your favorite veggies or proteins—how about adding some spinach for a nutrition boost? Don’t forget to pair it with crusty garlic bread or a fresh leafy salad for a complete meal!
Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup Ingredients
• Dive into this delightful recipe with the essentials you’ll need!
For the Soup Base
- Olive Oil – Adds fat for sautéing and flavor; you can substitute with any cooking oil of your choice.
- Onion (1 medium, finely diced) – Provides sweetness and aromatic flavor; shallots can be used in place of onion.
- Ground Beef (1 pound, 80/20) – Adds protein and richness; try ground turkey or plant-based meat for lighter options.
- Garlic (5 cloves, minced) – Enhances flavor; adjust the amount to your taste or use garlic powder as needed.
- Red Pepper Flakes (½ teaspoon) – Adds a hint of heat; omit if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon) – Brings an Italian herb flavor; feel free to use fresh oregano, adjusting the quantity.
- Tomato Paste (2 tablespoons) – Concentrates tomato flavor; canned tomatoes can be a quick substitute.
- Tomato Basil Pasta Sauce (25 ounces) – Forms the soup base; marinara sauce works well as an alternative.
- Diced Canned Tomatoes (28 ounces) – Adds texture and acidity; you can also opt for fresh tomatoes if preferred.
- Chicken Broth (4 cups, more if desired) – Provides the liquid base for the soup; vegetable broth is a great vegetarian option.
- Kosher Salt (2 teaspoons, divided) – Enhances flavor; adjust to preference or use table salt if necessary.
For the Noodles
- Lasagna Noodles (12, uncooked & broken into 2″ pieces) – The main starch component; any dried pasta shape can work too.
For Extra Creaminess
- Heavy Cream (½ cup, optional) – Adds creaminess; replace with half-and-half or omit for a lighter soup.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup) – Provides creaminess and richness; feel free to use any melting cheese you love.
- Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, freshly grated) – Adds savory depth; nutritional yeast can be a good vegan substitute.
- Ricotta Cheese (½ cup) – For garnish, offering lovely creaminess; Greek yogurt can make a healthier alternative.
- Fresh Basil (6 tbsp, finely chopped) – Adds freshness and color; dried basil can replace it, but in smaller amounts.
Now you’re all set to create this Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup that warms the soul! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Onion
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and soft. This step lays the flavor foundation for your Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup!
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Next, add 1 pound of ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s completely browned. After the beef is cooked, stir in 5 cloves of minced garlic, ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes, 2 teaspoons of salt, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Incorporate Tomato Base
Add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste to the mixture, stirring well to coat the meat and onion. Then pour in 25 ounces of tomato basil pasta sauce and 28 ounces of diced canned tomatoes. Next, pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, bringing the entire pot to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally. This forms the rich base of your Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup.
Step 4: Add the Noodles
Once boiling, toss in 12 broken pieces of lasagna noodles, making sure they’re submerged in the liquid. Stir carefully and reduce the heat to a simmer, covering the pot. Cook for about 12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but not mushy, stirring occasionally to prevent them from sticking together.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
After the noodles are tender, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream for added richness, adjusting the soup’s thickness with additional broth if desired. As the soup simmers for another couple of minutes, add 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, stirring until it melts smoothly into the mix, creating that creamy, comforting texture loved in Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Ladle the soup into warm bowls, and generously top with dollops of ½ cup of ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 6 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh basil. This adds delightful fresh brightness and creaminess. Your Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup is now ready to devour!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can sauté the onions and brown the ground beef up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate them to enhance their flavors. Additionally, you can prepare and combine all the soup ingredients (except the noodles and dairy) several hours before cooking, keeping everything fresh in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, simply bring the mixture to a simmer, add the uncooked noodles, and finish with cream and cheese for that rich, comforting taste. This makes your weeknight dinner hassle-free and just as delicious as freshly made!
Tips for the Best Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup
- Noodle Choice: Use dried lasagna noodles for optimal texture; avoid oven-ready varieties that can become mushy. If unavailable, any dried pasta will do—just adjust cooking time.
- Layer of Flavor: Don’t skip sautéing the onion and garlic; it builds a rich base for your Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup. This simple step elevates the overall taste.
- Broth Magic: Depending on your preference for soup thickness, feel free to add more chicken broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency.
- Storage Solutions: Leftovers last 3-4 days in the fridge, but if freezing, omit the noodles to prevent sogginess. Store without pasta for up to 3 months.
- Veggie Boost: Don’t hesitate to throw in some chopped spinach or zucchini during the last few minutes of cooking. It adds nutrition and color to your soup.
Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup Variations
Invite your culinary creativity to shine as you customize this easy creamy lasagna soup to fit your family’s tastes and dietary needs!
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Ground Turkey: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option that still packs a punch of flavor. This twist is perfect for those looking to reduce fat without sacrificing taste.
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace meat with sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a hearty vegetarian version. Adding some veggies like spinach or zucchini and you’ve got a nutrient-packed bowl perfect for plant lovers.
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Low-Carb Twist: Ditch the pasta and use zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a low-carb option that still delivers all the yummy flavors. Simply add the zoodles in the last few minutes of cooking for perfect tenderness.
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Cheesy Broccoli Addition: Toss in bite-sized broccoli florets during the last few minutes for a delicious veggie boost. Not only does it give added nutrition, but the vibrant greens also brighten your dish.
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Spicy Kick: For those who like it hot, add more red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños. This variation turns the comforting soup into a fiery delight, perfect for spice lovers!
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Flavorful Herbs: Go beyond oregano by adding fresh thyme or rosemary. A sprinkle of fresh herbs elevates the aromatic profile of your Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup.
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Cream Cheese Swirl: For even creamier goodness, swirl in some cream cheese just before serving. It adds a luscious richness that will have everyone going back for seconds!
Don’t forget to explore more heartwarming recipes like Vegetable Soup Wholesome or the creamy goodness of Mushroom Chicken Soup that can inspire your next family meal. Enjoy playing around with your version of this lasagna soup!
Storage Tips for Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Keep in mind that the noodles will absorb liquid over time.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup without the noodles for up to 3 months. Once ready to enjoy, simply reheat and add freshly cooked noodles.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick. Stir until heated through, then enjoy!
Airtight Storage: Ensure containers are tightly sealed to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn when storing your Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup.
What to Serve with Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup
As you savor each comforting spoonful of this rich soup, consider these delightful pairings that will turn your meal into a feast.
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Crusty Garlic Bread:
Perfect for dipping, this warm, buttery bread complements the soup’s creaminess and adds a satisfying crunchy texture. -
Kale Caesar Salad:
Crisp kale tossed in a tangy Caesar dressing adds a fresh, vibrant twist that contrasts beautifully with the rich lasagna flavors. -
Roasted Vegetables:
Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers offer a sweet earthiness that balances the hearty soup, adding nutrition and color to the table. -
Caprese Skewers:
Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze not only provide a burst of flavor but also echo the Italian essence of your dish. -
Homemade Focaccia:
Soft and fluffy, focaccia is perfect for soaking up all that delicious soup. A sprinkle of herbs elevates the dining experience further. -
Italian Red Wine:
A glass of Chianti or Sangiovese wonderfully enhances the Italian ambiance, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere around the dinner table. -
Tiramisu:
End your meal with a classic Italian dessert that’s light, creamy, and has just the right amount of coffee flavor to balance the richness of the soup.
Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of noodles work best for this lasagna soup?
Using dried lasagna noodles is highly recommended for optimal texture. They hold up well during cooking and absorb the flavors beautifully. If they’re unavailable, any dried pasta shape can work—just be mindful to adjust the cooking time, as some pasta may cook faster than others.
How should I store any leftover Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. However, keep in mind that the noodles will absorb the liquid over time, so the soup may thicken. If you’re planning on storing it for longer, consider freezing it without the noodles for up to 3 months.
Can this soup be frozen, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze your Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup, first let it cool completely. Then, portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Avoid adding noodles to the soup before freezing; they can become mushy. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the soup and cook some fresh noodles separately to mix in.
What if I want to customize the recipe with vegetables?
The more, the merrier! Adding chopped vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can enhance the nutrition and flavor. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking so they remain tender yet vibrant. This way, you’ll have a heartier bowl full of comforting flavors and nutrients.
Is this Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup suitable for those with allergies?
If you have dietary restrictions, this recipe is quite adaptable! You can easily substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat. For lactose intolerance, swap out heavy cream and cheeses with non-dairy alternatives. Just be sure to check label ingredients for potential allergens, especially with canned products and broths.
Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup That Warms the Soul
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and soft.
- Add 1 pound of ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's completely browned. Then add 5 cloves of minced garlic, 0.5 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, 2 teaspoons of salt, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste to the mixture, stirring well to coat the meat and onion. Then pour in 25 ounces of tomato basil pasta sauce and 28 ounces of diced canned tomatoes, followed by 4 cups of chicken broth, bringing the pot to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, toss in 12 broken pieces of lasagna noodles, ensuring they’re submerged in the liquid. Stir carefully and reduce the heat to a simmer, covering the pot. Cook for about 12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but not mushy.
- After the noodles are tender, stir in 0.5 cup of heavy cream for added richness, adjusting the soup's thickness with additional broth if desired. Add 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, stirring until it melts smoothly.
- Ladle the soup into warm bowls, and generously top with dollops of 0.5 cup of ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of 0.5 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 6 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh basil.
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