Introduction
There’s something wonderfully comforting about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day, and this Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup is the perfect cozy dish to embrace. Imagine the rich and savory flavors of traditional lasagna—golden brown ground beef, perfectly cooked noodles, and creamy cheese—transformed into a hearty soup that hugs you from the inside out. This recipe combines the best of both worlds: the ease of a one-pot meal with the indulgent tastes that lasagna lovers crave. Ready in just under an hour, you’re in for a treat that’s sure to become a new family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 8 oz uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent. Make sure to drain any excess fat for a lighter dish.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully.
- Stir in the broken lasagna noodles and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente, which usually takes around 10 minutes.
- While the noodles are cooking, in a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and half of the shredded mozzarella.
- Once the noodles are done, stir in the creamy cheese mixture until well mixed and heated through, creating a delightful, creamy texture.
- Serve the soup hot, topped with the remaining mozzarella and a sprinkle of fresh basil, if desired, for that extra touch of flavor and color.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize this soup with your favorite vegetables or swap in ground turkey or sausage for a different protein option. You can also adjust the spice levels by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce the liquid.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe showcases some straightforward cooking techniques such as sautéing, simmering, and incorporating flavors into a single-pot dish. Sautéing the beef and onions together brings out a rich depth of flavor, while simmering helps to infuse the broth with the vibrant essence of each ingredient. The final stir-in of cheese creates a luscious creaminess reminiscent of traditional lasagna, capturing all the comforting aspects you love.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like goat cheese or even a sprinkle of feta for a tangy twist.
Is this soup freezable?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of broth to restore the creamy consistency.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Certainly! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or your favorite meat alternative, and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.
Conclusion
This Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup is a delightful way to bring the warmth and comfort of lasagna into a bowl, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or a cozy gathering with friends. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s a dish that nourishes both body and soul. So pull out your biggest pot, gather your loved ones, and enjoy this fabulous twist on a timeless classic!