Lasagna lovers, get ready for a cozy twist on a classic dish! Cheesy lasagna soup takes your favorite comfort food and transforms it into a warm, hearty meal perfect for winter.
Imagine the rich flavors of ground beef and Italian sausage mingling in a single pot, making preparation a breeze. This dish captures all the traditional lasagna elements, like broken lasagna noodles and a variety of cheeses, while adding a soup-like texture that’s ideal for chilly days. You can even prepare the soup ahead of time and freeze it for later enjoyment.
With a mix of tomatoes and optional cream for extra richness, you can customize it to your liking. Serve it hot, topped with a dollop of ricotta and fresh basil, and you’ll have a delicious winter meal that’ll warm your soul.
What ingredients do you need?
To create a delicious pot of cheesy lasagna soup, you’ll need a variety of ingredients that come together to build rich flavors and textures.
Here’s a quick list to get you started:
- Meat & Proteins: Combine 1 lb of ground Italian sausage with 1/2 lb of lean ground beef for a hearty base.
- Tomatoes & Sauces: Use a mix of marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, and diced tomatoes to create a flavorful broth.
- Broths & Dairy: Incorporate 6 cups of chicken broth, ricotta cheese, and shredded mozzarella for creaminess. Additionally, you can enhance the flavor with various herbs and seasonings to complement the dish.
If you want to mix things up, consider ingredient substitutions, like using turkey sausage or vegetable broth, to explore various flavor variations.
Step by Step Instructions
Creating the perfect cheesy lasagna soup is easy when you follow these simple step-by-step instructions.
You’ll combine essential cooking techniques to build rich flavor profiles that elevate your dish.
- Brown the Meat: In a large pot, brown ground beef and Italian sausage over medium-high heat. Sauté diced onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add Sauce and Spices: Stir in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cook the Noodles: Add broken lasagna noodles and cook until tender. If you like, toss in some spinach towards the end for extra nutrition.
Cooking Tips
After you’ve mastered the step-by-step instructions for making cheesy lasagna soup, consider these cooking tips to enhance your dish even further.
For ideal soup thickness, adjust the amount of broth based on your preference. If you like it heartier, use less broth; for a lighter soup, add more.
When it comes to noodle alternatives, try using broken whole wheat or gluten-free lasagna noodles to suit dietary needs.
Don’t forget to stir regularly while cooking the noodles to prevent them from sticking together.
You can also toss in extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
While you might be tempted to enjoy your cheesy lasagna soup straight from the pot, serving it in individual bowls enhances the dining experience.
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top each serving with generous amounts of mozzarella, Parmesan, and a dollop of ricotta or cottage cheese. Stir the cheeses into the soup to melt and mingle with the noodles for a creamy texture.
For added flavor and presentation, consider garnishing options like fresh basil or parsley. Serve your soup alongside a Caesar salad and warm garlic bread for a complete meal.
Allow everyone to customize their bowl with extra cheese pairings or additional toppings to make the dish even more enjoyable.
Storing
To keep your cheesy lasagna soup fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator as soon as possible after cooking.
It’ll last for 4-5 days, but if you want to extend its life, consider freezing techniques. You can freeze the soup without pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it on the stove over medium heat, adding cooked pasta into each serving after reheating.
Health Benefits
Cheesy lasagna soup isn’t just a comforting treat; it also offers a range of health benefits. A nutritional analysis reveals that the combination of ground beef and Italian sausage delivers a substantial amount of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
The tomato-based broth is rich in vitamins A and C, along with antioxidants like lycopene, promoting heart health. Additionally, the soup’s ingredients, including lean meats and cheese, contribute crucial minerals such as iron and calcium.
Incorporating vegetables like spinach or zucchini boosts the fiber content, aiding digestion and helping with weight management. By opting for lean meats and whole-grain alternatives, you can enjoy a delicious dish that supports a balanced diet while keeping calories in check.
What to serve with it
When pairing sides with your lasagna soup, consider options that complement its rich flavors and textures. For great meal pairings, try serving garlic bread or rosemary focaccia, which enhance the soup’s savory notes.
Bruschetta adds a fresh contrast, while Parmesan crisps offer a delightful crunch.
Salads also work well; a Caesar salad or a mixed green salad with light vinaigrette can balance the hearty soup.
If you want to add some veggies, roasted zucchini or stuffed mini peppers bring in a satisfying element.
For a twist, sweet potato fries provide a subtle sweetness that complements the dish’s flavor profiles.
These sides not only elevate your lasagna soup experience but also create a memorable meal.
