If you're looking to serve your One Pot Lasagna Soup with a delightful accompaniment, you've got several tasty options. A fresh, crunchy salad works wonders. Think about tossing together crisp romaine lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette. That will bring out the savory notes in your soup.
Another option is warm, crusty garlic bread. Just bake it up until golden and serve alongside your soup. It’s perfect for that delightful dip into the soup. For drinks, a light-bodied red wine, such as Chianti, balances the flavors perfectly.
Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
What is One Pot Lasagna Soup?
One Pot Lasagna Soup is a creative spin on classic lasagna. This dish takes all the beloved flavors of lasagna, like rich tomato sauce, gooey cheese, and hearty noodles, and transforms them into a delightful soup format. You don’t have to worry about layering anything or waiting for it to bake. Instead, everything cooks together in one pot.
It starts with cooking a base of onions and garlic, then you add in a mix of beef or sausage for that savory depth. Toss in the broken lasagna noodles, rich tomato sauce, and herbs. Let that simmer together and you’ve got yourself a comforting bowl of goodness.
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
When I tasted my first spoonful of this One Pot Lasagna Soup, I was hit with layers of flavors. The richness of the beef melds with the acidity of the tomatoes. The herbs — basil, oregano, and parsley — offer an aromatic backdrop that highlights the dish.
Each bite captures the essence of classic lasagna, beautifully intertwined with the warmth of homemade soup.
Moreover, there’s a hint of sweetness thanks to granulated sugar and balsamic vinegar. This balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully. And I can’t forget to mention the creamy texture that heavy cream adds when included. It makes the soup indulgent without being overpowering.
Why You'll Love This
- Simplicity: You get the look and taste of lasagna without the mess and layers.
- Quick Cooking: The entire meal comes together in under an hour.
- Customization: Feel free to modify ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- One Pot Wonder: Less cleanup is a win for anyone using their kitchen.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love it, and it’s nutritious to boot!
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef (or a mix of Italian sausage and beef)
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 10 uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into roughly 1-2 inch pieces
- 1 (24-ounce) jar Prego Traditional Italian Sauce
- 1 (14-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 8-10 cups low-sodium chicken broth, divided
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon each dried parsley, dried oregano, salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 whole bay leaf
- 1 1/2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon red wine for added depth
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder for extra flavor
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for a creamier texture)
Cheese Garnish:
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Ricotta cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef or sausage. Stir frequently until browned, about 5-7 minutes. You want that deep, rich flavor to develop. When the meat is nearly cooked through, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 2: Add Spices
Next, sprinkle in your crushed red pepper flakes, dried herbs, salt, and black pepper. Give it a stir and let those spices bloom for about a minute. This enhances the flavors and creates an aromatic base.
Step 3: Incorporate the Tomatoes
Now it’s time for a red explosion! Pour in the jar of Prego sauce and the crushed tomatoes. Add the tomato paste next. Stir well to combine everything, letting the mix simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Broth
Pour in 8 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. You can always add a bit more later if you want a thinner soup. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Noodles Time
Gently toss in the broken lasagna noodles. Don’t worry if some pieces break a bit; it all adds to the heartiness! Keep the soup at a low simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This should take about 10-15 minutes, depending on how soft you want your noodles.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
At this point, taste your soup. Maybe it needs a hint of sugar or a splash of balsamic vinegar. Feel free to adjust seasonings to your liking.
Step 7: Creamy Finish (Optional)
If you’re interested in a creamier texture, now is the time to add the heavy cream. Stir well to combine. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Step 8: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a generous sprinkle of mozzarella, Parmesan, and a dollop of ricotta if you like.
Tips & Tricks
- Make it Vegetarian: Swap the meat for lentils or mushrooms for a veggie-packed version.
- Extra Veggies: Consider adding some chopped spinach or kale towards the end for added nutrition and color.
- Cheese Lover?: Feel free to increase the amount of cheese on top or even mix in additional varieties like fontina or gouda.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- Freezer Friendly: This soup freezes well, so make a double batch and store it in an airtight container for later.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: Approximately 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: Varies based on broth and sauce used
How Can You Store This One Pot Lasagna Soup?
Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can linger in the fridge for up to four days. For longer storage, portion the soup into freezer bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion, and label it with the date.
It should keep well for about 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
Ingredient Alternatives
- No Lasagna Noodles?: Try using small pasta shapes like shells or penne.
- Out of Ground Beef?: Use shredded chicken or ground turkey.
- Skip the Heavy Cream?: Coconut milk can substitute heavy cream for a lighter option.
Conclusion
One Pot Lasagna Soup has truly changed my weeknight dinner routine. It’s comforting, flavorful, and a breeze to prepare. You get the joy of a hearty meal that everyone in the family will adore, without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, you can customize it however you want.
Enjoy the simple satisfaction of a delicious meal all in one pot — your taste buds will thank you! Happy cooking!
You'll also like the following recipes!