A Comforting Twist on a Classic Dish

If you love lasagna but don’t have the time (or patience) to layer noodles, sauce, and cheese, this Creamy Lasagna Soup is for you. It’s everything you adore about lasagna—rich flavors, comforting textures, and cheesy goodness—packed into a single pot of creamy, soul-warming soup. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves hearty meals without all the fuss.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd, your family, or just yourself, this recipe adapts to your needs. It’s easy to customize, straightforward to prepare, and even better as leftovers. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special and how you can whip it up in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Lasagna Soup is:

Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
Family-Friendly: Packed with flavors kids and adults will both enjoy.
One-Pot Magic: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal.
Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze for future meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a quick rundown of the ingredients for this creamy, cheesy soup:

2 tbsp olive oil: You can substitute with avocado oil or butter.
½ sweet onion, chopped: Yellow or red onion works well too.
3 garlic cloves, minced
½ lb ground beef: Feel free to swap with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
½ lb spicy Italian sausage: Substitute with mild sausage or plant-based sausage for a vegetarian twist.
3 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp dried Italian herbs: Fresh oregano and parsley can be used instead.
24 oz marinara sauce: Use your favorite store-bought brand or homemade sauce.
¼ cup heavy cream: Half-and-half or coconut cream works for lighter or dairy-free options.
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth: Beef broth adds a richer flavor.
3 cups pasta: Broken lasagna noodles are traditional, but any pasta will do.
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped: Kale or arugula can be used instead.
¾ cup whole milk ricotta: Cottage cheese makes a lighter alternative.
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Pecorino Romano is another great option.
Fresh basil: For garnish and a pop of freshness.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this Creamy Lasagna Soup, you’ll need:

A large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Ladle for serving

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent and fragrant. This step builds the flavor base for your soup.

2. Cook the Meat

Add the ground beef and spicy Italian sausage to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon. If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works just as well.

3. Simmer with Broth and Marinara

Stir in the tomato paste and Italian herbs, letting the flavors meld for about a minute. Add the marinara sauce and broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.

4. Add Pasta and Spinach

Stir in the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Just before the pasta is done, add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. This adds a fresh and nutritious touch to the soup.

5. Serve with Ricotta and Parmesan

Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls. Top each serving with a dollop of ricotta, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan, and fresh basil. These final touches elevate the dish to restaurant-quality comfort food.

Recipe Tips and Variations

Make it Vegetarian: Swap the ground beef and sausage for plant-based alternatives or skip the meat entirely. Use vegetable broth for the base.
Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Low-Carb Option: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and skip the ricotta and Parmesan or use vegan alternatives.
Add Veggies: Enhance the nutrition by adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Store any leftover Creamy Lasagna Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup (without the ricotta topping) in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir well to reincorporate the creamy texture.

Perfect Pairings

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with:

Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.
Side Salad: A crisp Caesar or mixed greens salad complements the richness of the soup.
Wine: A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or a rich white wine like Chardonnay works beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just be sure to store it properly and reheat before serving.

What’s the best pasta for this soup?

Broken lasagna noodles are a classic choice, but any short pasta like penne, rotini, or farfalle works well.

Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely. For best results, freeze the soup without the ricotta topping and add fresh cheese when reheating.

How can I make this soup lighter?

Use ground turkey or chicken, half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and cottage cheese instead of ricotta.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Lasagna Soup is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a hit with everyone who tries it. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences and easy enough for cooks of any skill level.

If you try this recipe, please share it with your friends and family! Don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more delicious, fuss-free recipes. Let’s bring more comfort and joy to the dinner table, one bowl at a time!

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