Ultimate Cheesy Beef Lasagna Soup

Enjoy all the comforting flavors of classic lasagna in a quick, one-pot soup! This hearty Ultimate Cheesy Beef Lasagna Soup features a rich tomato broth with lean ground beef, onions, garlic, and Italian herbs. Lasagna noodles cook right in the soup, topped with a creamy blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses for an indulgent finish. Perfect for family dinners and satisfying those lasagna cravings without the lengthy assembly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just over an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pot Wonder: With everything cooked in a single pot, cleanup is simple and hassle-free.
• Rich Flavors: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a deliciously rich broth that will warm you up.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
• Comfort Food: It’s like enjoying lasagna without all the fuss; every spoonful is packed with cheesy goodness.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making this Ultimate Cheesy Beef Lasagna Soup, gather your tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven or pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Medium mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven or pot: Ideal for simmering soups evenly while allowing ample space for all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface, ensuring even cooking.
• Medium mixing bowl: Useful for preparing the ricotta topping without making a mess in your main cooking pot.

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Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15-oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (6-oz) can tomato paste
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp granulated sugar
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Noodles & Creaminess

• 4-6 lasagna noodles (4-6 oz total), broken into 1-2 inch pieces
• ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
• 5 oz fresh spinach, roughly chopped (or 10 oz frozen, thawed & squeezed dry)

For the Ricotta Topping

• 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus more for serving
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped, plus more for garnish
• ½ tsp salt (for ricotta topping)
• ¼ tsp black pepper (for ricotta topping)

For Serving

• Crusty bread or garlic bread

How to Make Ultimate Cheesy Beef Lasagna Soup

Step 1: Brown Beef & Sauté Aromatics

In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up. Drain excess fat. Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion and sauté 5-7 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Bloom Tomato Paste & Build Broth

Add tomato paste and cook while stirring for 2-3 minutes until it darkens. Pour in crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and broth. Stir in Italian seasoning, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), bay leaf, and sugar. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Simmer Soup Base

Bring to a gentle simmer; then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and cook for 20-30 minutes for flavors to meld and deepen.

Step 4: Prepare Noodles & Ricotta Topping

While soup simmers, break lasagna noodles into 1-2 inch pieces. In a separate medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, ½ cup Parmesan cheese, ½ cup mozzarella cheese, ¼ cup fresh chopped parsley, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper; mix well until smooth.

Step 5: Cook Noodles & Finish Soup

Remove bay leaf from soup. Increase heat to bring soup to a gentle boil. Add broken lasagna noodles and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Stir in heavy cream (if using) and fresh spinach; cook until spinach wilts. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle hot soup into individual bowls. Top each serving with a generous dollop of the creamy ricotta mixture along with an extra sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil. Serve immediately with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.

This Ultimate Cheesy Beef Lasagna Soup is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table! Enjoy!

How to Serve Ultimate Cheesy Beef Lasagna Soup

Serving the Ultimate Cheesy Beef Lasagna Soup is a delightful experience that enhances its comforting flavors. Here are some creative suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Family Style

• Serve the soup in a large pot at the center of the table, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a warm, communal atmosphere perfect for family gatherings.

Individual Bowls

• Ladle the soup into individual bowls for each guest. Top with extra shredded mozzarella and fresh parsley for an appealing presentation.

With Crusty Bread

• Accompany the soup with slices of crusty bread or garlic bread. This not only complements the soup but also offers a satisfying dipper for enjoying every last bite.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top just before serving. This adds color and freshness, enhancing both flavor and appearance.

On a Cozy Night In

• Perfect for chilly evenings, serve the soup alongside a cozy blanket and your favorite movie. It’s the ultimate comfort food experience.

How to Perfect Ultimate Cheesy Beef Lasagna Soup

Perfecting your Ultimate Cheesy Beef Lasagna Soup can make all the difference in flavor and texture. Here are some tips to consider:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality tomatoes will elevate the taste of your soup. Opt for seasonal produce whenever possible.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs based on your preferences for a perfectly seasoned dish.
• Cook Noodles Al Dente: Ensure lasagna noodles are cooked just until al dente; they will continue to soften in the hot soup without becoming mushy.
• Let it Simmer: Allow ample time for simmering to let flavors meld together beautifully. A longer simmer deepens the taste profile.
• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different cheeses in the ricotta topping, such as goat cheese or additional mozzarella, for added complexity.
• Add Vegetables: Enhance nutrition by incorporating more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini into your soup base.

Best Side Dishes for Ultimate Cheesy Beef Lasagna Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Ultimate Cheesy Beef Lasagna Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread
   Perfectly toasted baguette slices brushed with garlic butter make an excellent accompaniment for dipping into the rich broth.

2. Caesar Salad
   A crisp Caesar salad adds freshness and crunch, balancing out the hearty flavors of the soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables bring depth and color to your meal while being nutritious and flavorful.

4. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a light side that complements the richness of the soup.

5. Herbed Couscous
   Fluffy couscous flavored with fresh herbs offers a light yet satisfying side that pairs nicely with the bold flavors of lasagna soup.

6. Stuffed Peppers
   Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and veggies provide an enticing side dish that adds variety to your dinner spread.

7. Antipasto Platter
   A mix of olives, cheeses, marinated artichokes, and cured meats (or veggie alternatives) allows guests to nibble while enjoying their soup.

8. Garlic Roasted Potatoes
   Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic and herbs serve as a hearty side that complements every spoonful of lasagna soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Ultimate Cheesy Beef Lasagna Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the beef can lead to a bland flavor. Always brown the meat until fully cooked to enhance the taste.
• Overcooking the noodles: Overcooked lasagna noodles can turn mushy. Add them towards the end of cooking and check for al dente texture.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Flavor varies based on ingredients; don’t forget to taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving for best results.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is key to a flavorful soup. Always opt for low-sodium or homemade broth for richer taste.
• Not incorporating greens properly: Adding spinach too early may lead to wilted, unappetizing greens. Stir it in near the end of cooking for a fresh finish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The soup will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Ultimate Cheesy Beef Lasagna Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags; it can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Ultimate Cheesy Beef Lasagna Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing the Ultimate Cheesy Beef Lasagna Soup.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a lean alternative that works well, providing similar texture and flavor.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or a vegan cream cheese alternative if you’re looking for dairy-free options.

How do I store leftovers of Ultimate Cheesy Beef Lasagna Soup?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I customize the vegetables in this soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This soup is perfect for meal prep as it freezes well and reheats easily, making it great for busy weeknight dinners.

Final Thoughts

The Ultimate Cheesy Beef Lasagna Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or using alternative cheeses. It’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. Try making it today!