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There is something irresistibly cozy and comforting about a warm bowl of Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Recipe that feels like a hug in a bowl. This delightful twist on classic lasagna transforms all those beloved layers of flavors into a hearty, spoonable soup loaded with tender noodles, savory ground beef, and the creamy freshness of ricotta. It’s a perfect way to enjoy all the joy of lasagna with less fuss and a big, satisfying flavor punch that lingers long after your last bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Recipe is simpler than you think, and every ingredient plays a vital role in creating a rich, balanced dish. From the savory ground beef to the fragrant fresh basil, these essentials work together to build layers of taste, texture, and color that turn a humble soup into a crowd-pleaser.
- 1 pound ground beef: Brings hearty flavor and protein, creating the meaty foundation of the soup.
- 1 cup diced onion: Adds sweetness and depth as it softens and melds with the other ingredients.
- 2 cloves garlic minced: Infuses the soup with aromatic warmth and that unmistakable Italian flavor.
- 28 ounce crushed tomatoes: Provides a rich, thick base with a naturally tangy sweetness.
- 14.5 ounce diced tomatoes: Adds texture and bursts of fresh tomato flavor throughout the soup.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Keeps the soup perfectly balanced with a savory, light stock to meld all flavors.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that brings classic Italian flair to every spoonful.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, elevating the soup’s savory notes.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick that complements the other ingredients without overpowering.
- 6 sheets lasagna noodles broken: Traditional pasta pieces that soak up the broth and melt in your mouth tenderly.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: The creamy, velvety finish that adds luscious texture and richness to each bowl.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top, creating gooey, comforting cheese strands.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil: A bright, herbal note that lifts and freshens the entire dish.
How to Make Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat and Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat, then add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook everything together until the beef is thoroughly browned and the onions turn translucent, releasing their sweetness. This step builds the savory base that flavors every spoonful of your soup.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Next, stir in the crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes along with the chicken broth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, letting the ingredients meld and bubble together, signaling that your flavors are marrying beautifully.
Step 3: Simmer with Lasagna Noodles
Now, add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes. During this time, the noodles soften perfectly, soaking up all those robust tomato and herb flavors, adding hearty texture to every bite.
Step 4: Ladle and Top with Ricotta
Once the noodles are tender and the soup is rich and fragrant, ladle it into bowls. Add a generous spoonful of ricotta cheese to the top of each serving, letting the creamy dollop begin to melt into the warm broth, blending creaminess with savory depth.
Step 5: Finish with Mozzarella and Basil
Finish your soup by sprinkling shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta and scattering freshly chopped basil on top. The mozzarella melts invitingly, while the basil adds a fresh, vibrant contrast that brightens this comforting dish to perfection. Serve immediately and get ready to savor every cozy bite.
How to Serve Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing elevates this Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Recipe like thoughtful garnishes. Beyond the essential ricotta and mozzarella, try adding a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat. Fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can also add dimension and a touch of elegance to your cozy bowl.
Side Dishes
Pair this soup with crusty garlic bread or warm focaccia for dipping — the perfect way to soak up every last drop of delicious broth. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness, bringing a bright, refreshing contrast to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd or special occasion, serve the soup in rustic bowls lined with toasted baguette slices topped with melted mozzarella. You can also hollow out mini bread bowls for a charming, edible serving vessel that amplifies the comforting vibe of this delicious recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your fresh soup, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to 3 days, making it easy to reheat and enjoy without losing flavor or texture.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for a cozy meal, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to restore its perfect consistency. Hold off on adding ricotta until serving to keep that luscious texture fresh.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work well in this recipe, offering a lighter option while still delivering great flavor. Just cook them thoroughly as you would with beef.
Do I have to break the lasagna noodles?
Breaking the noodles makes them easier to eat in soup form, but if you prefer longer pasta strands, you can tear them into larger pieces or even cook whole sheets and layer them as a garnish.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, swap the ground beef for a medley of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based crumbles, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
Can I prepare the soup without fresh basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, dried basil works as a substitute. Add it along with the Italian seasoning during cooking. For garnish, you might also try fresh parsley for a different but delightful herbal note.
How can I make the ricotta topping less runny?
To reduce the ricotta’s wateriness, mix it with a bit of grated Parmesan and a pinch of salt before topping your soup. This blend will give you a creamier, thicker texture that stays in place longer.
Final Thoughts
This Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Recipe is one of those special meals that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Its rich flavors and cozy textures will quickly make it a go-to comfort food in your kitchen. I encourage you to try it soon — share it with loved ones or savor a quiet night in with a bowl that feels like a warm embrace.
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Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A hearty and comforting Lasagna Soup that brings all the classic flavors of traditional lasagna into a warm, delicious soup. Ground beef, tomatoes, chicken broth, and broken lasagna noodles simmer together with Italian seasoning, then topped with creamy ricotta, melted mozzarella, and fresh basil for a delightful meal ready in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Tomatoes
- 28 ounce crushed tomatoes
- 14.5 ounce diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
Seasonings and Pasta
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 sheets lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
Cheeses and Garnish
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic together until the beef is browned and the onion has become translucent, ensuring the flavors meld and the meat is fully cooked.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil to combine all ingredients and develop a rich tomato base.
- Cook the Noodles and Simmer: Add the broken lasagna noodles to the boiling soup. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes or until the noodles are tender and cooked through.
- Serve with Ricotta: Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with a spoonful of creamy ricotta cheese, adding a silky texture and authentic lasagna flavor.
- Add Mozzarella and Basil Garnish: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and freshly chopped basil over the top of each bowl for a gooey, cheesy finish and aromatic freshness. Serve immediately for the best taste.
Notes
- Use fresh basil or substitute with dried basil if fresh is unavailable.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with mushrooms or a plant-based ground meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free lasagna noodles or another suitable gluten-free pasta.
- Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding additional broth if the soup thickens too much.
