This Ground Beef Lasagna Soup brings all the cozy flavors of classic lasagna into a warm and hearty bowl. It’s filled with ground beef, pasta, and cheesy goodness!
Seriously, who doesn’t love a one-pot meal that has all the fun of lasagna, without all the layering? I usually top mine with extra cheese. Yum! 🧀
This soup is super easy to make, and the best part? You can have it on the table in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving comfort food!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of your soup, adding flavor and protein. If you want a healthier option, swap it out for ground turkey or chicken. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian twist.
Marinara Sauce: It’s essential for that classic lasagna flavor! If you don’t have marinara, any tomato-based pasta sauce will work. Just add a bit of Italian seasoning to boost the flavor.
Lasagna Noodles: The standard is to use lasagna noodles, but you can use any short pasta, like penne or rotini, in a pinch. You could even use gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary needs.
Ricotta Cheese: This gives that creamy, cheesy element. If you’re in a rush, substitute cottage cheese or cream cheese. For a dairy-free option, try vegan ricotta made from nuts or tofu!
How Do I Make Sure My Noodles Don’t Get Soggy?
A common struggle is having mushy noodles in your soup. The key is to add them towards the end of cooking, just like in this recipe. Here’s how:
- Wait until your broth is boiling before adding the broken lasagna noodles.
- Cook them for only about 10-12 minutes, checking for al dente. They will continue to cook slightly even after you remove the pot from heat.
- If you plan to have leftovers, consider cooking the noodles separately and adding them to each bowl when serving to keep them firm.
Enjoy making this cozy lasagna soup, and don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients and flavors!
Ground Beef Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty soup will take about 10 minutes for prep and around 30 minutes of cooking time, totaling about 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add in the 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Let it brown for about 5-7 minutes until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Once the beef is browned, toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft. Then, add the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until you can really smell it.
3. Add the Liquids and Seasonings:
Next, pour in the 4 cups of beef broth and the jar of marinara sauce. If you’re using them, add the can of diced tomatoes as well. Stir in the dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring everything to a boil!
4. Cook the Noodles:
Once the soup is boiling, drop the broken lasagna noodles into the pot. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. This way, the noodles can absorb all those delicious flavors!
5. Serve the Soup:
When the noodles are tender, take the pot off the heat. Ladle the soup into bowls, making sure everyone gets a good amount of noodles and beef.
6. Add the Cheese:
Top each bowl with a dollop of ricotta cheese and sprinkle some shredded mozzarella over the top. Feel free to use as much or as little cheese as you like!
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finish it off with a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or parsley for a nice touch. Serve the soup hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this hearty Ground Beef Lasagna Soup!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Lasagna Noodles for This Recipe?
Yes, whole wheat lasagna noodles work great! Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may need a minute more. You could also use gluten-free noodles for a gluten-free option!
How to Store Leftover Lasagna Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles might absorb some broth, but simply add a bit of extra beef broth when reheating to get your desired consistency!
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Absolutely! Cool the soup completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stovetop!
What Can I Substitute for Ricotta Cheese?
If you’re out of ricotta, you can use cottage cheese or cream cheese as an alternative. For a vegan option, try a store-bought vegan ricotta or blend silken tofu with some nutritional yeast and lemon juice for creaminess!