Name: Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 lb ButcherBox Ground Beef; ½ cup minced onion; 2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 6 garlic cloves); 28 oz crushed tomatoes (low or no sodium); 1 bay leaf; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional- omit if you don’t like spice or add to taste at end); 4 cups low sodium beef broth; 2 cups water; 2 cups reginetti pasta (or broken lasagna noodles, about 5 oz); ¼ cup ricotta cheese; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Jump to Recipe

If you have ever craved the comforting, layered flavors of classic Italian lasagna but wished for something quicker and cozier, you are in for a real treat with this Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe. This hearty, soul-warming soup captures all the savory goodness of lasagna in a delightful bowl that’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a cozy meal without the fuss. Packed with seasoned ground beef, fragrant herbs, tender pasta, and rich tomato broth, this recipe brings the family-favorite to your spoon with ease and loads of satisfying flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the key to making this soup shine. Each element plays a vital role in creating layers of flavor, bright color, and satisfying texture that make this Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe a standout in comfort food.

1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a silky base for cooking the beef and softening the aromatics.
1 lb ButcherBox Ground Beef: Provides hearty protein with rich flavor to form the soup’s savory heart.
½ cup minced onion: Brings natural sweetness and depth to the broth as it softens.
2 tablespoons minced garlic: About 6 cloves add aromatic warmth and classic Italian charm.
28 oz crushed tomatoes: The tomato base offers tangy brightness and a luscious red hue – low or no sodium is best for controlling salt.
1 bay leaf: Infuses subtle earthiness that ties the flavors together beautifully.
1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds that signature Italian herbaceous note.
1 teaspoon dried parsley: Brings freshness and balance to the savory broth.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Introduces a warm, slightly peppery accent.
½ teaspoon black pepper: For just the right hint of spice and complexity.
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Offers a gentle kick – feel free to leave out or add more to suit your spice preference.
4 cups low sodium beef broth: Provides rich liquid depth without overwhelming saltiness.
2 cups water: Balances the broth for perfect consistency and lightness.
2 cups reginetti pasta (or broken lasagna noodles about 5 oz): The pasta delivers that essential chewy, satisfying texture reminiscent of noodles in traditional lasagna.
¼ cup ricotta cheese (optional, for serving): Adds creamy richness and a dreamy finish atop each serving.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving): Sprinkles a salty, nutty boost that elevates every spoonful.

How to Make Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the ground beef and cook it until beautifully browned, about 10 minutes. This browning step builds incredible flavor and texture. After the beef looks deliciously caramelized, toss in the minced onion and garlic, sautéing for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and release their wonderful aroma. This fragrant base sets the stage for your hearty soup.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base

Now, stir in the crushed tomatoes, bay leaf, dried basil, parsley, oregano, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Pour in the beef broth and water to create a rich, savory liquid that will carry all the flavors. Cover the pot and raise the heat to bring the mixture to a lively boil. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom, helping develop a smooth, luscious broth.

Step 3: Add the Pasta and Simmer

Once your soup reaches a boil, add the reginetti pasta or broken lasagna noodles. Stir it gently, then lower the heat to medium so the soup can cook at a steady simmer. The magic here is to cook the pasta for only half the time listed on the package. This ensures it remains slightly undercooked, which is perfect because it will keep cooking off the heat and soak up all that delicious broth without turning mushy.

Step 4: Let the Pasta Finish Cooking Off Heat

After that half-cook time, remove the pot from the heat but leave it uncovered. Let the soup rest for about 5 minutes. During this time, the pasta absorbs even more flavor and achieves that ideal tender-but-firm texture that brings the lasagna experience to life in soup form. Before serving, fish out the bay leaf—it’s done its job infusing flavor but isn’t pleasant to bite into.

Step 5: Serve with Cheese and Enjoy!

Dish out the hot soup into bowls and add a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a dollop of creamy ricotta if you like. These finishing touches add a velvety richness that makes this Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe feel like a warm hug in a bowl. Grab a spoon and dive into layers of Italian comfort that are as quick as they are crave-worthy!

How to Serve Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your soup, a sprinkle of fresh chopped basil or parsley adds a vibrant pop of color and fresh aroma. Grated Parmesan cheese melts slightly on top, enhancing the creamy, savory vibe. A dollop of ricotta cheese brings a luscious creaminess that pairs perfectly with the rich broth and tender pasta. For spice lovers, a few red pepper flakes on top add a lively kick.

Side Dishes

Serve this soup alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette is ideal for soaking up every last drop of the luscious broth. Roasted vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers also complement the meal with additional texture and a healthful balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fancier touch, serve the soup in mini bread bowls for a rustic, cozy presentation that’s fun and interactive. Layer generous dollops of ricotta and Parmesan in a swirling pattern and garnish with fresh herbs for an inviting look. You can also add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil for added richness and visual appeal, turning simple soup into a show-stopper dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe keeps wonderfully in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent the pasta from absorbing too much broth overnight. When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, you might notice the pasta has softened more, but the comforting flavors remain delicious.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup, but it’s best to undercook the pasta even more if planning to freeze, as it tends to get mushy when thawed. Freeze the soup in portion-sized containers without cheese toppings. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally to restore that perfect balance of broth and noodles.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over medium-low heat to maintain the best texture. Add a splash of water or broth if the soup feels too thick due to pasta absorption. Stir frequently and heat until warmed through. Add fresh Parmesan and ricotta just before serving to bring back the creamy richness and fresh flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While reginetti or broken lasagna noodles work best for that authentic lasagna feel, small pasta shapes like orecchiette or shells can also be great substitutes. Just adjust cooking time as needed to ensure the pasta remains al dente.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, but keep in mind pasta can become mushy after freezing and reheating. To prevent this, slightly undercook the pasta before freezing, and reheat soup gently. Alternatively, you can freeze the soup base without pasta and cook noodles freshly when ready to serve.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef. The herbs and tomatoes will still create a flavorful, satisfying soup.

What should I do if my soup is too thick?

Simply add a bit more broth or water while reheating to loosen the consistency. Since pasta absorbs a lot of liquid, adjusting the thickness to your liking is easy and encouraged!

Can I prepare this recipe in a slow cooker?

While it’s possible, the slow cooker tends to overcook the pasta, making it mushy. For best results, cook the soup base in the slow cooker and add freshly cooked pasta just before serving to maintain perfect texture.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe is truly a must-try for anyone who loves the comforting flavors of Italian classics but wants a faster, fuss-free meal. Its simple ingredients and straightforward steps come together to create a soup that feels special yet effortless. Whether you’re cooking for family or craving a bowl of cozy goodness yourself, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to return to time and again.

Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 28 reviews

Author: Lana
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

This Easy Lasagna Soup recipe offers a hearty and comforting take on classic lasagna flavors in a warm, flavorful soup form. Featuring ground beef, crushed tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and tender pasta, it’s perfect for a cozy meal that’s simple to prepare on the stovetop with optional methods for Instant Pot or crockpot. Topped with creamy ricotta and Parmesan cheese, this soup is a crowd-pleaser that captures the essence of traditional lasagna in every spoonful.

Instructions

Heat the Oil and Brown Beef: In a large pot over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil for about 3 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook for 10 minutes until nicely browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
Sauté Onion and Garlic: Once the beef is browned, add the minced onion and garlic to the pot. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions and garlic become translucent and fragrant.
Add Tomatoes, Spices and Liquids: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, bay leaf, dried basil, parsley, oregano, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Pour in the low sodium beef broth and water. Mix well and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Cook the Pasta: When boiling, add the pasta to the pot, stir to combine, then reduce the heat to medium. Cook uncovered for half the time recommended on the pasta package, stirring occasionally. This ensures the pasta is slightly undercooked.
Let Pasta Finish Cooking Off Heat: Remove the pot from the heat and let the soup sit uncovered for 5 minutes. During this time, the pasta will continue to cook and absorb the delicious broth.
Serve: Discard the bay leaf. Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with the optional ricotta and Parmesan cheeses. Enjoy your comforting lasagna soup!
Instant Pot Notes: Use the sauté function to brown beef and sauté onion and garlic as above. Add tomatoes, spices, broth, and water, then stir in the pasta (pressed into liquid but not pushed to the bottom). Cook on high pressure for 2 minutes with a quick release. Discard bay leaf and top with cheeses. Pasta can be cooked separately to avoid mushiness.
Crockpot Notes: Brown beef, onion, and garlic on the stovetop first, then add to the crockpot base. Add tomatoes, spices, broth, and water, but no pasta initially. Cook on low for 6-8 hours (or high for 3-4 hours). Add raw pasta during the last hour and cook on high until pasta is tender. Discard bay leaf and top with cheeses.

Notes

For a spicier soup, add red pepper flakes to taste at the end of cooking.
It’s important to undercook the pasta slightly as it will continue to cook in the hot soup after removing from heat.
If using Instant Pot, be cautious of pasta overcooking; cooking pasta separately is recommended to avoid mushiness.
For crockpot method, add pasta only during the last hour to prevent it from becoming overly soft.
Leftover soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheats nicely.
You can substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat for ground beef for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly version (omit cheese or use alternatives for vegan).
If low sodium is preferred, always choose low or no sodium broth and crushed tomatoes.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop (primary), Instant Pot, Crockpot
Cuisine: Italian-American