The aroma hits you first: a bouquet of simmering tomatoes and savory spices swirling through the kitchen, beckoning you closer. That’s the magic of Easy Beef Lasagna Soup—my go-to recipe for those bustling weeknights when comfort food is a must but time is tight. This dish is an irresistible one-pot meal, combining all the delicious layers of traditional lasagna into a rich, hearty soup that warms both body and soul. With its customizable ingredients and quick prep, it caters to busy families and adventurous foodies alike. Whether you stick to the classic ground beef or throw in a splash of your favorite veggies, every bowl promises joy and satisfaction. Are you ready to warm up with a bowl of this Italian-inspired delight? Let’s dive in!
Why is Beef Lasagna Soup a Must-Try?
Comfort in every spoonful: This Beef Lasagna Soup is a warm hug on busy nights, brimming with rich flavors and cozy nostalgia. Quick and easy: A one-pot wonder that combines all your favorite lasagna elements without the fuss of layering. Customizable to fit your family's tastes—swap proteins, add veggies, or mix different cheeses for your own twist! Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for serving family or guests, guaranteeing seconds and satisfied smiles. Make-ahead convenience: Leftovers store beautifully, making it even easier to enjoy on those hectic weekdays. Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Try it today!
Beef Lasagna Soup Ingredients
For the Base
- Olive Oil – Used for sautéing beef and aromatics; vegetable oil is a fine substitute if needed.
- Ground Beef – The primary protein that brings heartiness; can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Onion – Adds aromatic flavor; shallots can be used for a milder taste if preferred.
- Garlic – Infuses the soup with rich flavor; if out of fresh garlic, use garlic powder (1 clove fresh = ⅛ teaspoon powder).
For the Sauce
- Diced Tomatoes (15 oz can) – Provides acidity and depth; fresh tomatoes are a great alternative during the summer months.
- Tomato Sauce (15 oz can) – Creates a robust base; homemade sauce works well if you have it on hand.
- Tomato Paste (⅓ cup) – Deepens the tomato flavor; in a pinch, ketchup can be used as a substitute.
- Chicken Broth (4 cups) – Essential for a flavorful broth; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Water (1-2 cups) – Adjusts the soup’s thickness; feel free to use additional broth instead of water if desired.
For Seasoning
- Italian Seasoning – A perfect blend to capture lasagna flavors; mix your own with dried basil, oregano, and thyme if you don’t have pre-mixed.
- Sea Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing all flavors; adjust according to your taste preferences.
For the Pasta and Cheese
- Bowtie Pasta (8 oz uncooked) – Adds heartiness and fun shapes; any small pasta like shells or elbows works well too.
- Ricotta Cheese (½ cup) – Brings creaminess to the soup; substitute with cottage cheese for a lighter option.
- Mozzarella Cheese (2 oz shredded) – Melts beautifully for a comforting finish; swap for provolone or fontina if you want something different.
Feeling excited to get started? This Beef Lasagna Soup is the perfect warmth for cozy evenings and a truly customizable delight!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Beef Lasagna Soup
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease, leaving a few tablespoons for added flavor as you continue to create your Beef Lasagna Soup.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add one diced onion to the pot, stirring it into the residual oil and beef. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and soft. Then, mix in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, allowing the aromas to fill your kitchen and build a flavorful base for your soup.
Step 3: Build Flavor Base
Stir in ⅓ cup of tomato paste along with 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Cook this mixture for 1 minute, allowing the spices to bloom and blend well with the beef and aromatics. This will enhance the overall flavor profile of the Beef Lasagna Soup.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup Base
Pour in one 15-ounce can of undrained diced tomatoes, one 15-ounce can of tomato sauce, 4 cups of chicken broth, and 1 to 2 cups of water, depending on your desired thickness. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot, bring the soup to a boil, and then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors.
Step 5: Prepare Ricotta Topping
In a separate bowl, combine ½ cup of ricotta cheese and 2 ounces of shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until well blended; this creamy mixture will top your Beef Lasagna Soup, giving it that lasagna vibe we all adore. Set it aside while the soup simmers to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Cook the Pasta
Once your soup base has simmered and is rich in flavor, bring it back to a gentle boil. Add 8 ounces of uncooked bowtie pasta to the pot, stirring gently. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally and adjusting the thickness of the soup with more broth or water if needed.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle the steaming Beef Lasagna Soup into bowls, making sure to include plenty of pasta and broth. Top each serving with a generous dollop of the creamy ricotta-mozzarella mixture. Serve hot and enjoy a cozy meal that combines all the heartwarming flavors of lasagna in a comforting soup format.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Beef Lasagna Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during those bustling weeknights! You can chop vegetables, brown the beef, and prepare the flavor base up to 24 hours in advance. Store the beef and sauce mixture in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh. On the day you plan to serve, simply reheat the beef mixture, add in the broth, and simmer. Then, stir in the uncooked pasta and finish cooking for about 10-15 minutes until al dente. For best results, prepare the ricotta topping fresh just before serving to enhance its creamy texture. Enjoy comforting, homemade flavors with minimal effort!
Beef Lasagna Soup Variations & Substitutions
Get ready to personalize your Beef Lasagna Soup with these exciting twist options!
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Veggie Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to pack in extra nutrition and flavor. Each bite adds delightful texture and freshness.
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Protein Swap: Switch ground beef for Italian sausage or a plant-based alternative for a lighter twist. Both options add a unique flavor profile that will surprise your taste buds!
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Cheese Variety: Experiment with different melting cheeses like smoked mozzarella or provolone for added richness and depth. These swaps elevate the dish to a new level of indulgence.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta varieties or skip the pasta entirely and serve over steamed zucchini noodles. It's a fantastic way to enjoy this soup while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
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Herb Twists: Try using fresh herbs like basil or parsley instead of dried Italian seasoning for a fresh burst of flavor. Fresh herbs truly brighten up the soup.
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Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to spice things up. This adds an exciting layer of flavor that can ignite your taste buds!
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Creamier Base: Swap ricotta cheese with cream cheese for an ultra-creamy soup. This simple adjustment makes every bowl velvety smooth and utterly delightful.
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Broth Variations: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth to make this soup entirely plant-based. It brings a different depth of flavor while still maintaining deliciousness.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your very own Beef Lasagna Soup masterpiece! If you’re looking for more delicious recipes, consider checking out my Family-Style Creamy Tomato Pasta or explore options for delightful Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers that make mealtime a celebration!
How to Store and Freeze Beef Lasagna Soup
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Room Temperature: Allow your Beef Lasagna Soup to cool completely before leaving it out for no more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
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Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure it is completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
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Freezer: Freeze the soup in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. For best results, label and date them to keep track of storage.
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Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to adjust consistency as needed.
What to Serve with Easy Beef Lasagna Soup
When it comes to elevating your comforting Beef Lasagna Soup to a complete meal, the right accompaniments can truly make all the difference.
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Crusty Italian Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich, tomato-based broth, this bread adds a crunchy texture contrast and enhances the overall experience.
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Cheesy Garlic Bread: A classic pairing that adds indulgence; this buttery, garlic-infused delight mingles wonderfully with the soup's flavors, making each bite heavenly.
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Simple Green Salad: A refreshing side bursting with crisp greens, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a nice balance to the soup's richness while adding a pop of color to your table.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender bring a delightful sweetness and smoky flavor, enhancing overall complexity and ensuring a well-rounded meal.
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Italian-Style Coleslaw: This crunchy side, tossed in a zesty vinaigrette, provides a wonderful textural contrast and a tangy kick to brighten up your meal.
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Red Wine: A medium-bodied Chianti or a robust Merlot complements the savory notes of the Beef Lasagna Soup beautifully, enriching your dining experience.
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Tiramisu for Dessert: Finish off your meal on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert that perfectly balances the meal's savory elements; its coffee flavor provides a lovely contrast.
With these delightful pairings, your Beef Lasagna Soup will shine even brighter as a comforting evening feast.
Expert Tips for Beef Lasagna Soup
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Brown the Beef Properly: Ensure you cook the ground beef thoroughly until it’s nicely browned to build a rich, hearty flavor for your soup.
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Adjust Soup Thickness: After cooking the pasta, if the soup is too thick, gradually add more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Mix the Cheeses Well: For a creamier texture, thoroughly mix the ricotta and mozzarella before topping your soup—this way, each spoonful will be luxuriously cheesy!
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Taste and Season: Always taste the soup before serving to ensure it’s seasoned well. You can easily tweak the flavor with more salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference.
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Add Extra Veggies: For added nutrition and flavor, consider incorporating sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini into your Beef Lasagna Soup.
Beef Lasagna Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ground beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for ground beef that has a fat content of around 80/20 or 85/15; this ratio ensures flavor and moisture without being overly greasy. Fresh ground beef should appear bright red, and avoid any with dark spots or an off smell. If you're concerned about health, ground turkey or chicken can be wonderful substitutes!
What is the best way to store leftovers of Beef Lasagna Soup?
Very! To store your Beef Lasagna Soup, let it cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to make it last longer, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some space in the container, as liquids expand when frozen.
Can I freeze Beef Lasagna Soup? If so, how?
Certainly! To freeze your Beef Lasagna Soup, let it cool completely first. Then, pour it into airtight freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label them with the date and contents, and flatten the bags for space-saving. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to adjust the consistency.
What should I do if my soup is too thick after cooking the pasta?
No worries! If your Beef Lasagna Soup turns out too thick after adding the pasta, you can easily fix it. Just add more chicken broth or water, a little at a time, stirring gently until you reach your desired consistency. Rinse the pots and bowls if you go too far—it's all about personal preference, so don’t hesitate to adjust!
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this soup?
Absolutely! You can make this Beef Lasagna Soup vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based protein like lentils, crumbled tempeh, or mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and feel free to amp up nutrition by adding extra vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. It's all about crafting a deliciously satisfying meal that suits your dietary needs!
Indulgent Beef Lasagna Soup for Cozy Weeknight Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease.
- Add one diced onion to the pot, stirring it into the residual oil and beef. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until translucent. Mix in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in ⅓ cup of tomato paste, 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to enhance flavors.
- Pour in one 15-ounce can of undrained diced tomatoes, one 15-ounce can of tomato sauce, 4 cups of chicken broth, and 1 to 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, combine ½ cup of ricotta cheese and 2 ounces of mozzarella cheese. Mix until well blended and set aside.
- Bring the soup back to a gentle boil. Add 8 ounces of uncooked bowtie pasta and cook for 10-15 minutes until al dente, adjusting thickness with more broth or water as needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the ricotta-mozzarella mixture.
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