Ground Beef Lasagna Soup

Introduction

Ground Beef Lasagna Soup is a hearty, comforting, and flavor-packed soup that captures all the delicious elements of traditional lasagna in a warm, cozy bowl. Layers of savory ground beef, rich tomato sauce, tender noodles, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella come together in a soup form, making it easier and faster to enjoy lasagna without the oven.

This soup is perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or anytime you crave the indulgence of lasagna in a comforting and easy-to-serve format. It combines the robust flavors of Italian seasonings, the richness of cheese, and the satisfying heartiness of beef and pasta, making every spoonful a delight.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it simplifies classic lasagna into a one-pot wonder without losing any flavor. It’s quicker to make, easy to serve, and perfect for busy nights. The combination of beef, tomatoes, noodles, and cheeses creates layers of comfort that feel like a hug in a bowl.

The creamy ricotta and gooey mozzarella swirl through the broth, creating that indulgent lasagna taste while still being lighter than a traditional baked version. It’s customizable, kid-friendly, and freezes beautifully for meal prep.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

This soup is a must-try because it brings all the cozy, comforting flavors of lasagna in a fraction of the time. It’s satisfying, easy to make, and offers the perfect balance of protein, carbs, and rich flavor. For anyone who loves Italian cuisine but doesn’t have hours to bake, this soup delivers everything you want in lasagna — meatiness, tomatoey goodness, and cheesy comfort — in a convenient bowl.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: ~40 minutes

Servings & Nutrition

• Servings: 6
• Calories per Serving: ~400–450
• Course: Main Course / Soup
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz / 800 g) crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 oz (225 g) uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus extra for topping
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method:

1. Cook the Beef
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned.
   • Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Sauté Aromatics
   • Add chopped onion to the beef and cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
   • Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add Liquids & Seasoning
   • Stir in crushed tomatoes, broth, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
   • Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Cook Noodles
   • Add broken lasagna noodles to the simmering soup.
   • Cook according to package instructions (usually 8–10 minutes) until noodles are tender.
5. Add Cheeses
   • Lower heat and stir in ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
   • Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Serve
   • Ladle the soup into bowls.
   • Top with extra mozzarella, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and fresh basil leaves.

How to Serve

• Serve hot, directly from the pot.
• Pair with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables.
• Optional: drizzle a little olive oil or sprinkle crushed red pepper for extra flavor.

Recipe Tips

• Use freshly grated cheeses for better melting and flavor.
• Break lasagna noodles into small pieces for easy spooning.
• Stir occasionally when noodles cook to prevent sticking.
• Add a splash of cream or milk for an extra creamy texture.
• Leftovers thicken in the fridge; add extra broth when reheating.

Variations

• Vegetable Boost: Add spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
• Meat Variations: Use ground turkey, sausage, or a combination of meats.
• Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Cheesy Variation: Swirl in mascarpone or cream cheese for extra richness.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace noodles with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
• Reheating Tip: Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to restore consistency.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the soup and refrigerate. Add noodles when reheating to prevent overcooking.

Q2: Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Yes, just break them into smaller pieces and cook slightly longer in the soup.

Q3: Can this soup be made vegetarian?
Yes, use lentils or plant-based meat substitute and vegetable broth instead of beef.

Q4: How can I make it creamier?
Stir in a bit of cream, milk, or extra ricotta cheese.

Q5: Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a larger pot and adjust cooking time slightly.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Lasagna Soup is a comforting, cheesy, and hearty meal that transforms classic lasagna into a convenient and flavorful soup. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners, this recipe is easy to make, customizable, and sure to satisfy the whole family. It’s a must-try for lasagna lovers looking for a quick, one-pot version of their favorite Italian dish.