Introduction to Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup
If you’re a busy professional juggling work and life, you know the struggle of finding time to prepare a hearty meal. Enter Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup—a game changer that combines the classic flavors of lasagna with the simplicity of a one-pot meal. In just around 30 minutes, you can whip up a delicious, comforting bowl that's perfect for busy weeknights.
Why is lasagna soup a game-changer for busy young professionals?
Imagine coming home after a long day, ready to unwind, but knowing you still need to eat something satisfying. This soup not only provides all the delightful elements of traditional lasagna—think rich tomato sauce, gooey cheese, and tender pasta—but also allows you to skip the layering and baking steps. The use of uncooked lasagna noodles means you don’t even have to boil pasta separately!
Plus, with ingredients like ground beef, garlic, and spices easily available at your local grocery store, you can make this meal using items you likely already have on hand. And let’s not forget about the ease of cleanup! Simply one pot to wash—total win. This easy creamy lasagna soup ensures that you can enjoy a comforting meal without sacrificing your precious time.
Ready to dive into this culinary delight? Let’s get started with the ingredients!
Ingredients for Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup
Essential ingredients for a delicious base
To kick off your easy creamy lasagna soup, you’ll need a delightful mix of foundational flavors. Start with:
- Olive oil: A tablespoon to sauté your aromatics.
- Onions and garlic: One medium onion and five cloves of minced garlic will give your soup depth.
- Ground beef: Opt for 80/20 for the perfect balance of flavor and richness.
- Tomato products: Tomato paste, diced canned tomatoes, and a hearty tomato basil pasta sauce create the base that screams comfort food.
- Chicken broth: Four cups will ensure your soup has that soothing, warm quality.
- Lasagna noodles: Use uncooked, broken into two-inch pieces to give that classic lasagna texture.
Garnishes for that perfect finish
Once your soup is simmering away, it’s time to think about garnishes that elevate your dish:
- Shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese: These melty toppings bring that signature creaminess to your soup.
- Ricotta cheese: A dollop adds richness and the iconic lasagna touch.
- Fresh basil: Finely chopped for a burst of freshness.
These simple additions prepare you to present a comforting bowl of easy creamy lasagna soup that’s not just meal-ready but also a feast for the eyes!
Step-by-step preparation of Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup
Making an easy creamy lasagna soup is straightforward and incredibly rewarding! It’s a one-pot meal that captures all the classic flavors of traditional lasagna. Let’s dive into the preparation steps that will take your taste buds on a delightful journey!
Heat the olive oil and cook the onion
Start by pouring 1 tablespoon of olive oil into a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, toss in 1 medium onion, finely diced. Sauté the onions for about 5 minutes or until they become translucent and aromatic. This step not only helps in softening the onions but also builds a solid flavor base for your soup.
Brown the ground beef and add aromatics
Next up, add 1 pound of ground beef to your pot. Choose a blend that's around 80/20 for the best flavor and texture. Cook the beef until it’s browned all over, breaking it up as it cooks. Once the meat is cooked through, introduce 5 cloves of minced garlic, ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. The aromatics will fill your kitchen with a wonderful scent, making it hard to resist!
Integrate tomato sauces and broth
Now, it’s time to bring in the exciting tomato flavors! Pour in 25 ounces of tomato basil pasta sauce and 28 ounces of diced canned tomatoes. Then, add 4 cups of chicken broth, which serves as the soup’s liquid gold. For a thinner soup, feel free to increase the broth later. Stir everything together, and bring it to a gentle boil while you wait in eager anticipation!
Add lasagna noodles and seasoning
Once boiling, break 12 lasagna noodles into 2-inch pieces and add them to the pot. Also, sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of kosher salt—you can adjust to your taste later. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are perfectly tender. This is when the magic happens—your kitchen will start smelling like an Italian trattoria!
Stir in heavy cream and cheeses
For a luxuriously creamy texture, gradually stir in ½ cup of heavy cream. If you want it even creamier, consider adding shredded mozzarella or parmesan right into the pot. This makes the easy creamy lasagna soup exceptionally indulgent! If it’s still thick for your liking, add an extra cup of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
Serve with fresh basil on top
Ladle the steaming soup into bowls and finish it off with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, ½ cup of freshly grated parmesan, and ½ cup of ricotta cheese. Don’t forget the pièce de résistance: 6 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh basil sprinkled on top! This vibrant garnish not only enhances the presentation but adds a burst of fresh flavor. Serve hot and watch your friends and family be amazed!
Enjoy this cozy and comforting easy creamy lasagna soup on a chilly evening, and get ready for compliments!
Variations of Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup
Vegetarian Option
If you want a delightful twist on this easy creamy lasagna soup, consider going meatless! Replace the ground beef with a hearty mix of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, and spinach. The earthy flavors will meld beautifully with the rich tomato broth, creating a wholesome, veggie-packed meal. Don’t forget to stir in some extra cheese for that classic lasagna creaminess.
Cheesy Chicken Lasagna Soup
For a protein-packed alternative, try a cheesy chicken lasagna soup. Simply swap the ground beef for diced cooked chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken. Add in some Italian seasoning for an added flavor boost! This version retains that comforting, creamy texture while delivering a delightful taste twist. Your weeknight dinners just got a whole lot easier—and tastier!
Cooking tips and notes for Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup
Pro tips for making it extra creamy
For an extra creamy texture in your easy creamy lasagna soup, consider stirring in a handful of shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese right as you add the heavy cream. This will melt beautifully, enriching the soup with cheesiness. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a swirl of ricotta cheese on top before serving for that delightful, creamy bite!
Freezing and storing leftovers
Leftovers of your easy creamy lasagna soup are a lifesaver! Store any unused soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, portion the soup into freezer-safe bags or containers—just remember to leave some space for expansion. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Serving suggestions for Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup
Ideal sides to complement your soup
Pair your easy creamy lasagna soup with a light, fresh side salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette. The brightness of citrus balances the richness of the soup beautifully. Warm, crusty garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks also make great accompaniments, perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious broth.
Presentation tips for a lovely dinner table
Elevate your dinner experience by serving the easy creamy lasagna soup in wide, shallow bowls to showcase its colorful layers. Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil and additional cheese for that inviting touch. Add a few candles or a simple floral centerpiece to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that your guests will love.
Time breakdown for Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup
Preparation time
In just 10 minutes, you can prep all the ingredients for this delicious Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and gather your spices to make cooking a breeze.
Cooking time
Once everything’s ready, the actual cooking takes around 25 minutes. This includes browning the beef, simmering the broth, and perfecting the noodles to reach that tender state.
Total time
By the end, you’ll have a satisfying meal in 35 minutes from start to finish. Enjoy a warm bowl of this comforting soup that's perfect for any weeknight dinner!
Nutritional Facts for Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup
Calories per serving
Each serving of this easy creamy lasagna soup contains approximately 514 calories. It's filling and satisfying while still being manageable for a weeknight dinner.
Key vitamins and minerals
This delightful soup isn't just a treat for the taste buds; it packs a nutritional punch! Each bowl includes key vitamins and minerals, such as:
- Vitamin A: 1396 IU, supporting your vision and immune function.
- Vitamin C: 11 mg, essential for skin health and immunity.
- Calcium: 276 mg, promoting strong bones and teeth.
- Iron: 5 mg, crucial for transporting oxygen throughout your body.
With a balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates, this soup is not only comforting but also a great choice for busy professionals looking to eat healthily. Enjoy each spoonful knowing you're nurturing your body!
FAQs about Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup
Can I use different types of meat?
Absolutely! While this easy creamy lasagna soup recipe calls for ground beef, feel free to substitute it with other meats like ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based proteins for a vegetarian version. Each option can bring a different flavor profile to the dish—just be mindful of cooking times based on the meat you choose!
What if I don't have lasagna noodles?
No problem at all! If you’re out of lasagna noodles, any kind of pasta will do—think penne, rigatoni, or even fun shapes like shells. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary, keeping an eye on the pasta until it’s tender. You can also explore alternatives like zucchini noodles for a lighter, gluten-free option.
How can I make it gluten-free?
To create a gluten-free version of this easy creamy lasagna soup, simply swap traditional lasagna noodles for gluten-free pasta. Make sure to check your sauce and broth for gluten, and you're good to go! This way, everyone can enjoy a comforting bowl of lasagna soup without worries.
Conclusion on Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup
In summary, this easy creamy lasagna soup brings hearty comfort to your table in just one pot. It's perfect for a cozy gathering or a quick weeknight dinner. With rich flavors and creamy texture, you'll want to make it time and again. Enjoy each spoonful!
Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
Ingredients
Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion finely diced
- 1 pound ground beef 80/20
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 25 ounces tomato basil pasta sauce
- 28 ounces diced canned tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth more if you want a thinner soup
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt divided or more to taste
- 12 noodles lasagna uncooked and broken into 2" pieces
- ½ cup heavy cream optional
Garnishes
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup parmesan cheese freshly grated
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- 6 tablespoons fresh basil finely chopped
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or dutch oven and add the onion. Cook until it’s soft, then add the beef and sauté. Once the beef is browned all over, stir in the garlic, red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, oregano and tomato paste.
- Stir the tomato sauce, diced canned tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring it to a boil, then add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Add remaining 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, or more to taste. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the noodles are tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream. You can add 1-2 cups extra chicken broth at this point to help thin it out if you want a thinner soup. Pro tip: Stir shredded mozzarella or parmesan right into the soup to make it extra creamy and cheesy!
- Spoon the lasagna soup into bowls and add ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and parmesan cheese along with fresh basil on top. Serve and enjoy!
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