If you love all the cozy flavors of traditional lasagna but want something quicker and a bit more comforting in a bowl, my favorite Lasagna Soup Recipe is just what you need. This dish perfectly captures the rich, meaty tomato sauce, the tender pasta, and the creamy cheese layers that make lasagna so irresistible, only in a warm, hearty soup form. It’s a bowl of everything you adore about classic Italian comfort food that’s ready in less time and with less fuss, yet every spoonful feels like a celebration of those signature flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Lasagna Soup Recipe is in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in building layers of flavor, texture, and the vibrant colors that make this soup so satisfying.

1 lb Ground beef or Italian sausage: Provides a rich, savory base with caramelized depth from browning.
1 Yellow onion – Diced: Offers sweetness and a fragrant foundation when sautéed.
2 cloves Garlic – Minced: Adds aromatic warmth and classic Italian flavor notes.
2 tbsp Olive oil: The perfect cooking fat to sauté vegetables and develop flavor.
2 tbsp Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor with a luscious, slightly sweet punch.
28 oz Crushed tomatoes – One 28‑oz can: Brings a bright, tangy tomato body to the soup.
4 cups Chicken or beef broth: Builds the savory soup base and adds richness.
1 tsp Dried basil: Delivers subtle herbal sweetness essential in Italian cooking.
1 tsp Dried oregano: Adds an earthy and slightly peppery note to balance the tomato.
¼ tsp Red pepper flakes – Optional for heat: Gives a gentle kick without overpowering.
Salt and black pepper – To taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every flavor.
8 oz Lasagna noodles – Broken into bite‑size pieces: The star pasta that simulates the texture of lasagna sheets but in soup form.
1 cup Ricotta cheese: Provides creamy richness to swirl in and melt gently.
1 cup Mozzarella cheese – Shredded: Adds gooey, melty texture and mild flavor.
½ cup Parmesan cheese – Grated: Delivers sharp umami and salty depth.
2 tbsp Fresh parsley – Chopped for garnish: Brightens the soup with fresh green color and herbal freshness.

How to Make Lasagna Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook it thoroughly, stirring occasionally, until it’s deeply browned and caramelized. This step is crucial as it develops rich, savory flavors that form the backbone of your soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Once the meat is browned and cooked through, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onions become soft, translucent, and fragrant. This layering of flavors builds a savory foundation that makes the soup truly comforting.

Step 3: Bloom the Tomato Paste

Stir in the tomato paste and cook it for a couple of minutes until it darkens slightly and the aromas really start to develop. This elevates the tomato flavor by intensifying the natural sweetness and richness.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken or beef broth, dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir everything together, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the vibrant yet hearty soup base starts to take form.

Step 5: Simmer the Pasta

Break the lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and add them to the pot. Let the soup simmer until the noodles are tender but not mushy, about 10 minutes. This step turns the soup into an inviting, filling meal that echoes the textures of lasagna noodles but with a comforting broth.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the piping hot soup into bowls, dollop ricotta cheese on top, sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, and then finish with chopped fresh parsley. The combination of melted cheeses and fresh herbs creates that beloved lasagna cheese pull effect in soup form.

How to Serve Lasagna Soup Recipe

Garnishes

For a truly indulgent experience, top each serving with extra freshly grated Parmesan and a few basil leaves or extra parsley. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add an exciting final flourish.

Side Dishes

Serve your lasagna soup alongside a crusty piece of garlic bread or a warm baguette to soak up every last drop. A simple green salad with vinaigrette pairs wonderfully to cut through the richness and add crunch and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions or casual dinners, serve this soup in individual mini cocottes or soup bowls lined with fresh basil leaves underneath the cheese. You can even assemble a DIY garnish station where everyone adds their own ricotta, mozzarella, and parsley to personalize their bowls.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftover soup into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen nicely overnight, making it even more comforting the next day.

Freezing

Lasagna Soup Recipe freezes well. Place cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Avoid adding the fresh cheeses before freezing to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add fresh ricotta, mozzarella, and parsley after reheating just as you do when first serving to keep that beautiful creamy melt and fresh brightness.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Definitely! While broken lasagna noodles give the closest texture to traditional lasagna, you can swap in broken penne, rigatoni, or even small shells. Just adjust cooking time for pasta tenderness.

Is it possible to make this Lasagna Soup Recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the meat and use vegetable broth. To boost flavor, add sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a meaty texture and umami richness.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce when serving. A spicy Italian sausage option can also kick up the heat and flavor overall.

Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the meat and sauté the aromatics first, then transfer all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, adding noodles during the last 15-20 minutes to avoid overcooking.

What cheeses work best for topping?

Going traditional is always a hit—ricotta for creaminess, mozzarella for meltiness, and Parmesan for salty tang. Fresh basil or parsley adds the perfect herbaceous touch to finish.

Final Thoughts

This Lasagna Soup Recipe is truly one of those comforting dishes that soothes the soul while satisfying your pasta cravings in a new and fun way. It’s hearty, cheesy, and packed with all those classic Italian flavors you love, yet effortless to make on any weeknight. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself coming back to this bowl of comfort over and over, sharing it with friends and family as one of your new favorite meals.