This comforting lasagna soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Loaded with pasta, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s everything you love about lasagna but in soup form. Yum!
What makes it special? There’s a secret ingredient that gives it a twist. I can’t spill the beans, but trust me, it’s a game-changer! Just picture cozy nights with a bowl in hand!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: You can use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative. If you’re vegetarian, try using plant-based sausage or lentils for a hearty flavor.
Onion: I love using yellow onions for their sweetness. You could swap them for shallots for a milder taste or even use green onions for a fresh twist.
Crushed Tomatoes: For a deeper flavor, substitute canned crushed tomatoes with fire-roasted ones or use homemade tomato sauce if you have it. Both options add a nice smokiness!
Lasagna Noodles: Instead of traditional lasagna noodles, you could use gluten-free pasta if needed. Just make sure to adjust cooking times according to the package directions.
Heavy Cream: If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free choice. Both will still give a creamy texture!
How Do I Get the Most Flavor from Garlic and Onion?
When it comes to enhancing flavor, properly cooking garlic and onion is key! Start by heating your pot first; this helps the onions sweat and caramelize nicely. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat oil over medium heat before adding chopped onions.
- Sauté onions for about 3-5 minutes until they turn translucent.
- Add minced garlic in the last minute of cooking to avoid burning it, which can turn bitter.
For a rich taste, feel free to add a pinch of salt to the onions while they cook. This helps draw out their moisture and enhances their sweet flavor. A great tip I’ve learned is to keep an eye on the garlic, as it can go from perfectly cooked to overdone quickly!
How to Make Secret Ingredient Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 8-10 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Ricotta Topping:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious lasagna soup will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, totaling approximately 45 minutes. This includes browning the meat, sautéing the onions and garlic, simmering the sauce, and cooking the noodles. It’s quick to make, and it smells wonderful while cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Meat:
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep your soup from being greasy.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté them together for about 3-5 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. The garlic should be aromatic—be careful not to let it burn!
3. Making the Soup Base:
Now it’s time to stir in the crushed tomatoes and broth. Add the dried oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
4. Cooking the Noodles:
Add your broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Stir them in and cook according to the package directions, usually about 10-12 minutes, until the noodles are al dente. Keep an eye on them during this time so they don’t get too soft!
5. Finishing the Soup:
Once the noodles are cooked just right, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well and taste for seasoning, adding salt and pepper as needed. This will make the soup creamy and rich, perfect for comforting evenings!
6. Preparing the Ricotta Topping:
While the soup is finishing up, prepare the ricotta topping. In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth. This topping adds a lovely creaminess to the soup!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the hot soup in bowls, topped with a generous dollop of the ricotta mixture and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish. Enjoy your warm and hearty Secret Ingredient Lasagna Soup with family and friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, try using mushrooms or a meat alternative like lentils. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary, and ensure any meat substitutes are cooked through.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup a day ahead! Simply follow the recipe, but add the noodles just before serving to prevent them from getting too soft. Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat on the stove before serving, adding a splash of broth if needed after rewarming.
How to Store Leftovers
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, make sure to leave out the cream and noodles, as they don’t freeze well. Instead, freeze the base soup and add freshly cooked noodles and cream when reheating.
Can I Customize the Flavor of This Soup?
Definitely! You can add your favorite herbs and spices for extra flavor. Try adding Italian seasoning, bay leaves, or even a splash of red wine for richness. For a more substantial soup, toss in some chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach during the cooking process.
