This One-Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! It’s filled with pasta, rich tomato sauce, and lots of gooey cheese. Plus, you only need one pot to make it!
Making it is a breeze! I love how everything simmers together to create pure deliciousness. Honestly, who doesn’t want a hearty soup that tastes like lasagna? Yum! 😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Italian Sausage: This adds amazing flavor, but you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you want vegetarian, try using lentils or mushrooms instead.
Marinara Sauce: You can use store-bought marinara for convenience, but homemade is always a treat! If you’re low on stock, crushed tomatoes work great. Just add a bit of Italian seasoning.
Noodles: Traditional lasagna noodles work well, but feel free to use gluten-free pasta if you need. Even broken spaghetti is a nice substitute!
Cheese: Mozzarella is perfect for that gooey texture. If you want a different twist, mix in provolone or some smoked Gouda. Whole milk can replace heavy cream for a lighter version.
How Do I Ensure My Soup Has the Right Flavor and Thickness?
Getting the flavor just right can be tricky! Here’s how to elevate your lasagna soup:
- Start by browning the meat well to develop its flavor; this step lays a great foundation.
- Add spices like basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes early to let flavors infuse the broth.
- For a thicker soup, let it simmer longer, and don’t be afraid to stir often to prevent sticking.
- Finish with cream and cheese off the heat to keep it creamy without curdling. Stir thoroughly to combine!
And always remember to taste and season as you go to achieve just the right balance! Happy cooking!
One-Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (or ground beef)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce or 3 cups crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth or beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces broken lasagna noodles or wide egg noodles
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total: around 10-15 minutes for prep and about 15 minutes for cooking. It’s quick, uncomplicated, and perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat and Onions:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage and diced onion. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and the onions are soft. Use a spoon to break up the meat as it cooks.
2. Add the Garlic:
Once the meat and onions are ready, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. You want it fragrant but not burnt!
3. Introduce the Sauces:
Pour in the marinara sauce and broth (chicken or beef). Give it a good stir! Add the dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper to taste. Keep stirring to combine everything.
4. Cook the Noodles:
Bring the soup to a boil, then add in the broken lasagna noodles. Reduce the heat, allowing it to simmer uncovered for about 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Stir occasionally so they don’t stick together.
5. Make It Creamy:
Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the heavy cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Mix it well until everything is melted and the soup becomes creamy.
6. Final Touches:
Taste your soup and adjust any seasonings if needed. You might want to add a little more salt or pepper.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Now it’s time to ladle the cheesy soup into bowls! Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and if you like, add extra Parmesan cheese and some black pepper on top.
8. Enjoy!
Serve hot and dive into this delicious, comforting one-pot meal. It’s like having lasagna in soup form! Yum!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Italian Sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works as a lighter alternative, just remember it may have less flavor, so consider adding extra herbs or spices to enhance the taste.
How to Adjust the Recipe for Vegetarian Options?
You can easily make this soup vegetarian by using plant-based sausage or lentils as a substitute for the meat. Just pay attention to the cooking time to ensure everything is cooked through!
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the soup a day in advance. Just skip adding the heavy cream and cheese until you reheat it. Add those last ingredients when you’re ready to serve for the best creamy texture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it up on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen it up if it thickens too much.