There’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting scent of a delicious meal simmering on the stove. Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and as I stir the pot, the rich aroma of garlic and tomatoes fills the air, instantly creating a sense of comfort and promise. That’s how One Pot Lasagna Soup came to be a go-to favorite in my home. Combining all the classic flavors of traditional lasagna into one hearty soup, it’s a dish that not only warms the soul but also simplifies weeknight cooking.
With tender noodles, savory meat, and a delectable mix of cheesy goodness, this soup is as quick to prepare as it is satisfying. Whether you’re in need of a cozy dinner after a long day or simply looking to spice up your meal routine, One Pot Lasagna Soup is here to rescue you from those fast food temptations. Join me as we dive into this easy-to-make recipe that delivers on flavor and comfort without the fuss!
Why is One Pot Lasagna Soup a must-try?
Comfort in a Bowl: This soup captures the essence of traditional lasagna, giving you all the flavors without the mess of layers.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze!
Hearty Ingredients: Packed with tender noodles, savory meat, and rich cheeses, it’s a satisfying meal that hits all the right notes.
Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to swap proteins or add your favorite veggies; every bowl can be unique!
Family Favorite: It’s a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds, ensuring a happy dinner table.
Leftover Love: Make a big batch and enjoy for up to 3 days—simply reheat for a quick lunch or dinner.
One Pot Lasagna Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Ground Beef or Italian Sausage – Provides protein and rich flavor; substitute with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter option.
- Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; yellow or white onions work best for this dish.
- Garlic – Enhances aroma and taste; fresh minced garlic is preferred for the best flavor.
- Crushed Tomatoes – Forms the base of the soup for acidity and sweetness; canned diced tomatoes can add more texture.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth – Provides liquid and depth of flavor; homemade or low-sodium versions are recommended.
- Dried Oregano and Dried Basil – Essential herbs for a classic Italian flavor; fresh herbs can be substituted by using three times the amount.
- Bay Leaf – Adds a subtle earthy note during cooking; be sure to remove it before serving.
For the Pasta and Cheese
- Lasagna Noodles – Creates the traditional lasagna texture; broken pieces allow them to cook evenly.
- Ricotta Cheese – Adds creaminess and a distinct flavor; cottage cheese can be a lower-fat substitute.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Melts wonderfully to form a gooey texture; any good melting cheese can be used.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds salty depth and richness; nutritional yeast serves as a great dairy-free alternative.
For Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt and Pepper – Enhances overall flavor; adjust to your taste preferences.
- Fresh Basil (optional) – Offers a fresh touch and aromatic garnish for your One Pot Lasagna Soup.
How to Make One Pot Lasagna Soup
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Brown the Meat: In a large pot, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Be sure to break it up into smaller pieces for even cooking and maximum flavor.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onions to the pot and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, letting the aroma fill your kitchen.
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Combine Base Ingredients: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth, stirring everything together to create the flavorful base of your soup.
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Season: Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, and bay leaf, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil for the perfect infusion of flavors.
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Cook Noodles: Add the broken lasagna noodles into the pot, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and al dente.
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Add Cheese: Stir in the ricotta cheese until it smoothly blends into the soup, followed by half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan until they melt into gooey perfection.
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Adjust Taste: Taste your soup to decide if it needs more seasoning or a pinch of salt before serving. Every bite should be bursting with flavor!
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Serve: Remember to remove the bay leaf before ladling your hearty lasagna soup into bowls. Top with the remaining mozzarella, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and fresh basil for that extra touch of flavor.
Optional: Serve with crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for One Pot Lasagna Soup
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Perfect Meat Browning: Ensure the meat is thoroughly browned to deepen the flavor; this step is essential for a rich soup.
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Noodle Texture Matters: Avoid overcooking the lasagna noodles; they should be al dente since they’ll soften further in the broth.
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Seasoning Adjustment: Always taste your One Pot Lasagna Soup before serving. A pinch more salt or herbs can elevate the dish significantly.
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Cheese Choices: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses; using gouda or a blend can add a unique twist to your soup.
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Add Veggies: Boost nutrition by throwing in some chopped spinach or zucchini; they blend well and introduce a lovely texture.
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Storage Made Easy: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stove to maintain the creamy texture.
Make Ahead Options
One Pot Lasagna Soup is a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weeknights! You can chop your onions and garlic, and brown the meat up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can measure out the spices and keep them ready to go. When you’re ready to enjoy this hearty soup, simply combine the prepped ingredients in one pot with the broth, crushed tomatoes, and broken lasagna noodles, then simmer until the pasta is tender—this will ensure your soup is just as delicious as when freshly made! Enjoy the convenience and delightful flavors without the last-minute rush.
What to Serve with One Pot Lasagna Soup?
Elevate your meal experience with these delicious pairings that perfectly complement the warmth of your comforting soup.
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Crusty Bread: An ideal companion, this bread is perfect for soaking up the savory broth and cheese, adding a satisfying texture to each bite.
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Garlic Breadsticks: These buttery, herb-infused treats bring a burst of flavor and are fantastic for dipping into the hearty soup.
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Fresh Green Salad: A light, crisp salad balances the richness of the soup, providing freshness and crunch that invigorates your palate.
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Roasted Vegetables: A side of caramelized seasonal vegetables adds a sweet touch and earthy notes, enhancing the overall meal with vibrant flavors.
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Parmesan Garlic Knots: These warm, cheesy knots bring a delightful twist, tying the flavors of Italian cuisine together while being fun to eat.
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Amaretto Iced Coffee: For a refreshing beverage, this sweet coffee pairs beautifully, creating a delightful contrast to the savory soup.
Indulge in these pairings, and let your One Pot Lasagna Soup shine as the star of a comforting, complete meal!
One Pot Lasagna Soup Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic recipe to suit your taste buds!
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Vegetarian: Swap the meat for lentils or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty plant-based alternative that’s equally satisfying.
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Creamy Spin: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving to add a luscious creaminess that complements the flavors.
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Heat It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick that will awaken your senses.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for added fragrance and flavor that can brighten every spoonful.
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Cheese Swap: Try unique melting cheeses like gouda or pepper jack to introduce rich new flavors into your comforting soup.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in fresh spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers while the noodles cook for an added nutritional punch and colorful presentation.
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Pasta Variety: Switch lasagna noodles for penne or fusilli for a fun texture twist while keeping that comforting essence.
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Nutty Flavor: Top with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds just before serving for a delicious crunch that adds variety to each bite.
Storage Tips for One Pot Lasagna Soup
Fridge: Store the One Pot Lasagna Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and ready for quick meals.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in portioned airtight containers for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave space for expansion as the soup freezes.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Leftovers: Enjoy the flavors fresh again! Leftover soup can be an excellent lunch option, serving as a cozy reminder of your hearty dinner.
One Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of meat should I use for One Pot Lasagna Soup?
Absolutely! Ground beef or Italian sausage works best as they provide rich flavor, but feel free to substitute with ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter version. Whatever your choice, just brown the meat well to maximize its taste.
How should I store the One Pot Lasagna Soup?
You can store your One Pot Lasagna Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps keep it fresh and ready to enjoy for quick meals. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Can I freeze One Pot Lasagna Soup?
Definitely! To freeze, portion the soup into airtight containers, leaving some space for expansion as it freezes. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
What if my soup is too thick?
If your One Pot Lasagna Soup turns out too thick after cooking or on reheating, no worries! Just add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth while warming it up. Stir well until you reach your desired consistency, and enjoy the creamy, hearty texture.
What if I have allergies to some of the ingredients?
If you or someone you’re cooking for has allergies, you can easily adjust this recipe. For instance, use gluten-free lasagna noodles if avoiding gluten. Substitute dairy cheese with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. The soup remains delicious with these modifications!
Can I add more vegetables to the soup?
Very much so! One of the great things about One Pot Lasagna Soup is its versatility. You can add chopped spinach, zucchini, or even bell peppers to boost its nutritional value and add more texture. Just toss them in during the simmering phase for a delightful veggie infusion!
One Pot Lasagna Soup: Cozy Comfort in Every Spoonful
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brown the Meat: In a large pot, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat until browned.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Then stir in minced garlic.
- Combine Base Ingredients: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth, stirring to create the flavorful base.
- Season: Add dried oregano, dried basil, and bay leaf, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook Noodles: Add broken lasagna noodles and reduce heat to simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Add Cheese: Stir in ricotta cheese, followed by half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
- Adjust Taste: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Remove bay leaf and ladle soup into bowls, topping with remaining mozzarella and fresh basil.