Introduction
Welcome to a cozy recipe that brings all the comforting flavors of lasagna into a delightful bowl of soup! This Easy Lasagna Soup is perfect for chilly evenings when you crave something warm and satisfying. Picture a rich broth filled with chunks of savory Italian sausage, tender noodles, and vibrant spinach, all topped off with creamy ricotta and melty mozzarella. It’s the ultimate one-pot meal that will have your family asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 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: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, cooking until it’s nicely browned. Once cooked, remove the sausage and drain any excess fat.
- In the same pot, toss in the diced onion and stir, cooking until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and optional red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute to release those fragrant aromas.
- Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes, stirring the mixture together. Bring it to a gentle simmer, allowing those flavors to marry beautifully.
- Add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot, letting them cook until tender, which should take about 10-12 minutes.
- Once the noodles are perfectly al dente, fold in the fresh spinach and stir until it wilts into the soup.
- While the soup is simmering, take a moment to prepare the creamy ricotta mixture. In a small bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- To serve, ladle the hot soup into bowls. Add a generous spoonful of your ricotta mixture and sprinkle a handful of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- If you like, garnish with fresh basil for a lovely touch of color and flavor.
Notes or Tips
This Easy Lasagna Soup is wonderfully versatile! Feel free to swap out the Italian sausage for ground turkey or even a plant-based sausage for a lighter, vegetarian option. You can also customize your greens—kale or Swiss chard would work fantastically. For an extra kick, add more red pepper flakes or even a splash of hot sauce. And don’t forget, this soup can be made ahead of time and tastes even better the next day!
Cooking Techniques
When making this soup, browning the sausage is essential as it enhances the flavor profile of the finished dish. Additionally, cooking the onions until they are translucent helps develop a sweet, aromatic base. Make sure to keep an eye on the lasagna noodles to ensure they don’t become too soft—al dente is the way to go! Stirring in the spinach at the end keeps it vibrant and fresh, contributing to both flavor and nutrition.
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat lasagna noodles? Yes, whole wheat noodles are a great option for added nutrition! Just be mindful of the cooking time as they may require a little longer.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You may need to add a splash of broth when reheating as the noodles can absorb some liquid.
Can I freeze this soup? Absolutely! Just make sure to leave out the cheese toppings until you’re ready to serve. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This Easy Lasagna Soup is a perfect blend of flavors that warms the soul and comforts the heart. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend, this hearty dish will make your kitchen feel like a cozy Italian bistro. Grab a bowl, a spoon, and enjoy every delicious bite!