Italian Homemade Lasagna Soup

This Italian Homemade Lasagna Soup takes all the flavors of classic lasagna and turns them into a cozy, hearty soup. With layers of pasta, meat, ricotta, mozzarella, and a rich, flavorful tomato base, this dish is perfect for a comforting meal on a cold day.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces (or use mini pasta like bowtie or penne)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for topping)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Ground Meat:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
   • Add the ground beef (or beef and pork mixture) to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
2. Build the Soup Base:
   • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a simmer.
   • Once simmering, add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to ensure the noodles don’t stick together.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
   • In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese (reserve some for topping), and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and set aside.
4. Assemble the Soup:
   • Once the noodles are cooked, ladle the soup into bowls. Add a spoonful of the cheese mixture to the center of each bowl, letting it melt into the hot soup. You can also stir the cheese mixture directly into the soup for a creamy texture.
   • Top with extra shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley before serving. Serve with warm crusty bread for dipping.

Tips and Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the meat and substitute with chopped vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian option.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles or any gluten-free pasta shape you prefer.
• Extra Veggies: Add spinach or kale to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking for added greens.
• Spicy Kick: Adjust the red pepper flakes to your desired level of heat or add a dash of hot sauce for more spice.

This Italian Homemade Lasagna Soup brings all the comforts of lasagna in a quick and easy soup form. It’s perfect for chilly nights and will become a family favorite in no time! Enjoy!