There’s a comforting magic that happens when the rich aroma of tomato and melted cheese fills the kitchen, bringing family and friends together. That’s exactly what you’ll experience with this One Pot Lasagna Soup—a delicious fusion of classic Italian flavors, all in a cozy bowl. After a long day, when dinner can feel like a chore, this dish swoops in as the perfect solution. Imagine indulging in hearty, tender pasta and savory ground beef simmered in a lush, aromatic broth, all while minimizing your cleanup—what more could you want?
As someone who appreciates the joy of homemade meals, I can’t resist the allure of this simple yet mouthwatering recipe. It captures the beloved essence of lasagna, transforming it into an easy-to-make soup that pleases both adults and kids alike. Plus, with a few variations up your sleeve, this recipe lets you customize it to your family’s taste while keeping everyone happy. So grab your favorite pot and let’s bring the tastes of Italy right into your kitchen!
Why Is One Pot Lasagna Soup So Special?
Comforting and Delicious: The rich flavors of tomato and cheese blend perfectly, making every spoonful a warm hug for your taste buds.
Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 40 minutes, this one-pot wonder takes the stress out of weeknight cooking.
Minimal Cleanup: Say goodbye to piles of dishes; this recipe allows you to savor deliciousness without the hassle.
Customizable: Switch it up with different meats, veggies, or cheeses, making it a versatile favorite for everyone.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this hearty soup, turning dinner into a delightful family gathering. Enjoy the magic of homemade goodness with your loved ones!
One Pot Lasagna Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Ground Beef – Use 80/20 or 85/15 fat content for the best flavor; ground turkey works as a leaner substitute.
• Garlic (3 cloves) – Finely mince for an aromatic punch; no direct substitute is recommended.
• Yellow Onion (1/2) – Diced to add sweetness and texture; shallots can be used for something milder.
• Garlic Powder (1/2 tsp) & Onion Powder (1/2 tsp) – Optional but enhances flavor; skip if using fresh garlic and onion.
• Dried Basil (1/4 tsp) & Oregano (1/2 tsp) – Essential Italian herbs; fresh can be used, just adjust the quantities accordingly.
• Kosher Salt (1 tsp) & Pepper – Vital for seasoning; feel free to adjust to your taste.
For the Soup Components
• Crushed Tomatoes (14 oz can) – The base of the soup, providing sweetness; fresh tomatoes can replace canned ones.
• Chicken Broth (32 oz) – Adds umami and depth; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• Water (1 cup) – Adjusts the soup’s consistency; less water yields a thicker soup.
• Tomato Paste (2 tsp) – Concentrates the tomato flavor; no substitute recommended.
• Lasagna Noodles (6 oz) – Broken pieces offer texture and heartiness; gluten-free pasta is a great alternative.
• Frozen Chopped Spinach (1 cup) – Boosts the nutrition factor; fresh spinach requires a quick sauté first.
• Heavy Cream (1/4 cup) – Adds creaminess; half-and-half or coconut milk can substitute for a lighter option.
For Serving
• Ricotta Cheese – Adds the classic lasagna essence; cottage cheese can be a substitute if needed.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Provides melty goodness; feel free to experiment with different types for a unique touch.
This One Pot Lasagna Soup transforms your dining experience into a delightful gathering, promising warmth and comfort in every spoonful!
How to Make One Pot Lasagna Soup
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Brown the Meat: In a large pot, combine the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it apart as it cooks and continue until it browns nicely, draining any excess grease afterward.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and diced onion to the pot, along with garlic powder, onion powder, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, until everything is fragrant and the onion is tender.
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Combine the Base Ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, water, and tomato paste. Mix everything together until well combined, creating a rich and flavorful soup base.
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Add Noodles: Break the lasagna noodles into pieces and add them to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. The noodles should be tender but not mushy.
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Incorporate Vegetables and Cream: Mix in the frozen chopped spinach and heavy cream, allowing the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes. This adds creaminess and a touch of green!
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Serve with Cheese: For serving, place a slice of mozzarella cheese at the bottom of each bowl before ladling the hot soup over it. Top it off with a dollop of ricotta cheese, and sprinkle with optional parmesan if desired.
Optional: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
One Pot Lasagna Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it truly yours—each twist will bring new layers of flavor!
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Italian Sausage: Swap out the ground beef for Italian sausage to infuse a deliciously spicy kick.
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace meat with roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian option.
When you savor each bite, you’ll appreciate how the flavors meld beautifully, making this a comforting dish for everyone. -
Creamy Spinach: Use a combination of fresh ricotta and sautéed spinach instead of frozen; this adds a fresh touch to your soup.
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary while cooking for an aromatic twist that elevates the dish.
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Different Pasta Shapes: Experiment with various pasta shapes like bowties or shells instead of traditional lasagna noodles for a fun texture.
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Spicy Variations: Throw in some crushed red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat; it brings an intense warmth that tickles the palate.
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Cheesy Goodness: Mix in a blend of cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique flavor explosion that makes each bowl a new experience.
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Zesty Touch: Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a bright, zesty flavor that cuts through the richness.
With these exciting variations, your One Pot Lasagna Soup will never get boring, and each family member can enjoy their perfect bowl!
What to Serve with One Pot Lasagna Soup?
Create the perfect dining experience that complements this cozy bowl of warmth. Each side enhances the rich flavors and warmth of the soup.
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Crusty Garlic Bread: The golden, buttery crunch makes a delightful companion, soaking up the delicious broth with every bite. Perfect for those who appreciate a little crunch with their comfort.
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Fresh Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and a zesty dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup, ensuring a well-rounded meal that feels light and satisfying. Toss in some croutons for extra crunch!
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Roasted Vegetable Medley: Seasonal vegetables, roasted to perfection, add color and nutrition to your table. Their natural sweetness provides a lovely balance to the savory flavors of the soup.
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Parmesan Crisps: These cheesy, crunchy snacks offer a fun texture difference to your meal and are perfect for munching alongside your soup. They add a wonderful depth of flavor in every crispy bite.
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Garlic Knots: Fluffy and soft, these buttery knots are easy to pull apart and perfect for dipping. The warm garlic flavor elevates your taste experience, ensuring no broth goes untouched.
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Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine, like Chianti or Merlot, elevates the Italian essence of your meal while pairing beautifully with the hearty soup.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: End your dinner on a sweet note! Its warm, gooey center is a luscious treat that will leave your loved ones raving long after the meal is over.
Serving these delightful sides with your One Pot Lasagna Soup will create treasured memories around the dinner table, making your meal a truly comforting experience!
How to Store and Freeze One Pot Lasagna Soup
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat on the stove or in the microwave for a quick meal.
Freezer: Allow the soup to cool completely, then freeze in containers for up to 3 months; omit heavy cream before freezing for the best texture.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it appears thick.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving One Pot Lasagna Soup out for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage; always refrigerate leftovers promptly.
Make Ahead Options
Making your One Pot Lasagna Soup ahead of time is a fantastic strategy for busy weeknights! You can brown the ground beef and sauté the aromatics up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the cooked mixture in an airtight container. Additionally, you can break the lasagna noodles and keep them stored separately to prevent them from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy, combine the refrigerated ingredients in a pot, add the broth, and finish cooking as directed, adding the noodles and other ingredients for a delightful, home-cooked meal—just like it was made fresh! This way, you’ll save valuable time while still enjoying a comforting bowl of soup that’s just as flavorful.
Expert Tips for One Pot Lasagna Soup
- Timing Matters: Add the lasagna noodles only when the broth reaches a simmer to avoid overcooking; otherwise, they’ll become mushy.
- Avoid Clumping: When browning the ground beef, break it into smaller pieces to achieve perfect browning instead of steaming.
- Creamy Finish: Incorporate heavy cream at the end of cooking to prevent curdling and maintain its luscious texture.
- Store Wisely: Leftovers can absorb liquid; keep extra broth on hand to revive the soup when reheating.
- Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to use different cheeses like gouda or fontina for a unique spin on the flavors in this One Pot Lasagna Soup.
One Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of meat works best for One Pot Lasagna Soup?
Absolutely! Ground beef is the classic choice for a rich flavor, and I recommend using 80/20 or 85/15 fat content. If you’re looking for a leaner alternative, ground turkey also works wonderfully. If you want a bolder taste, try Italian sausage instead!
How should I store my One Pot Lasagna Soup?
Store your One Pot Lasagna Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. It’s quick, easy, and still tastes delicious!
Can I freeze leftover One Pot Lasagna Soup?
Yes, you can! To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then store it in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Just remember to omit the heavy cream before freezing, as it doesn’t thaw well. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed.
How do I know when the lasagna noodles are cooked perfectly in the soup?
To achieve the best texture, add the noodles when the soup reaches a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes. They’re done when they’re tender but still have a slight bite (al dente). Avoid cooking them too long to prevent a mushy soup—nobody wants that!
Can I substitute the ingredients due to dietary restrictions?
Certainly! There’s a lot of room for customization in this One Pot Lasagna Soup. You can use gluten-free pasta to keep it gluten-free, swap out heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version, or even use fresh spinach instead of frozen if you prefer. It’s all about what works best for you and your family!
Is this soup kid-friendly?
Very! This One Pot Lasagna Soup combines familiar flavors in a comforting format that kids generally love. The cheesy toppings and hearty noodles make it appealing. You can also let the little chefs have fun adding their favorite toppings, which makes it even more enjoyable for them!
One Pot Lasagna Soup That's Comfort in a Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brown the Meat: In a large pot, combine the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it apart as it cooks and continue until it browns nicely, draining any excess grease afterwards.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and diced onion to the pot, along with garlic powder, onion powder, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, until everything is fragrant and the onion is tender.
- Combine the Base Ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, water, and tomato paste. Mix everything together until well combined, creating a rich and flavorful soup base.
- Add Noodles: Break the lasagna noodles into pieces and add them to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. The noodles should be tender but not mushy.
- Incorporate Vegetables and Cream: Mix in the frozen chopped spinach and heavy cream, allowing the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Serve with Cheese: For serving, place a slice of mozzarella cheese at the bottom of each bowl before ladling the hot soup over it. Top it off with a dollop of ricotta cheese.