Growing up, One Pot Lasagna Soup was a dish that always brought my family together. I can still remember the aroma of the rich tomato broth and the melted cheese wafting through the house, signaling that it was time to gather around the table. It was comfort food at its finest – a cozy, hearty meal that warmed us from the inside out.
My mom would spend hours simmering the soup, carefully layering the flavors to create a depth that was simply unmatched. She’d start with a base of ground beef, onions, and garlic, sautéing them to perfection before adding in her secret blend of herbs and spices. Then, she’d gently stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and a touch of red wine, letting it all meld together into a rich, tomatoey broth.
The best part, though, was the way she’d assemble the “lasagna” right in the pot. She’d carefully ladle the bubbling broth over layers of tender lasagna noodles, creamy ricotta, and shredded mozzarella, creating a one-pot wonder that was both easy to make and incredibly satisfying to eat. I can still remember the way the cheese would melt and stretch as we dug in, the noodles soaking up all that delicious flavor.
To this day, whenever I make One Pot Lasagna Soup, it takes me right back to those cozy family dinners. It’s a dish that just has a way of bringing people together, of creating that sense of comfort and community that we all crave. And that’s why I’m so excited to share this recipe with you – because I know it’s going to become a new go-to in your household, just like it is in mine.
Table of Contents
Why This One Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The secret behind this One Pot Lasagna Soup recipe is the way it combines the classic flavors of lasagna with the convenience of a one-pot meal. By simmering the ingredients together in a single pot, you get all of the rich, comforting flavors of lasagna without the hassle of layering and baking. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover lasagna noodles you might have in your pantry.
The Secret Behind Perfect One Pot Lasagna Soup
What really sets this recipe apart is the way the flavors meld together. By sautéing the beef, onions, and garlic first, you’re able to build a deep, savory base that infuses the entire soup. And the addition of a touch of red wine takes the broth to the next level, adding a subtle complexity that you just can’t get with water or broth alone.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
– Ground beef: The backbone of the soup, providing a hearty, meaty texture.
– Onions and garlic: These aromatics add depth and flavor to the broth.
– Diced tomatoes: The key to that classic lasagna tomato flavor.
– Chicken broth: Provides the liquid base for the soup.
– Red wine: Enhances the depth of flavor in the broth.
– Lasagna noodles: Gives you that signature lasagna texture and shape.
– Ricotta cheese: Adds a creamy, cheesy element to the soup.
– Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, creating gooey, cheesy pockets throughout.
Step-by-Step One Pot Lasagna Soup Instructions
Preparing Your One Pot Lasagna Soup
This One Pot Lasagna Soup comes together in about an hour, from start to finish. All you’ll need is a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot to get the job done. The key is to take your time and let the flavors develop, building that rich, comforting broth that’s the hallmark of this dish.
1- Start by browning the ground beef in the pot over medium-high heat, making sure to crumble it as it cooks. Once the beef is browned, add the onions and garlic and sauté until they’re soft and fragrant.
2- Deglaze the pot with a splash of red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This will help infuse the broth with even more flavor.
3- Next, add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and your favorite Italian herbs and spices. Let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the broth to thicken slightly.
4- Once the broth is ready, it’s time to assemble the lasagna. Break the lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and gently stir them into the simmering soup. Let the noodles cook for about 10 minutes, until they’re tender.
5- Finally, dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese and sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top. Cover the pot and let the cheese melt, creating those irresistible cheesy pockets.
6- Ladle the One Pot Lasagna Soup into bowls and serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your One Pot Lasagna Soup turns out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips:
– Don’t be afraid to let the broth simmer for a bit longer to really develop the flavors. The longer it cooks, the more the tomatoes and herbs will meld together.
– Be gentle when stirring in the lasagna noodles to prevent them from breaking apart.
– If the soup seems too thick, you can thin it out with a bit more broth or water.
– Shredding the mozzarella yourself will give you a creamier, more melty texture than pre-shredded cheese.
Serving and Storing Your One Pot Lasagna Soup
Perfect Pairings for One Pot Lasagna Soup
One Pot Lasagna Soup is the ultimate comfort food, so it pairs beautifully with simple, rustic sides. A fresh, crisp salad or some warm, crusty bread are both perfect accompaniments. And if you’re looking to make it a heartier meal, garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables would be delicious.
As for drinks, a glass of bold red wine or a refreshing iced tea would both be lovely choices to complement the rich, tomatoey flavors of the soup.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about One Pot Lasagna Soup is that it actually gets better as it sits. The flavors continue to develop, and the noodles soak up all that delicious broth. You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to thin it out if the noodles have absorbed too much liquid.
This soup also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw it in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for One Pot Lasagna Soup
Creative One Pot Lasagna Soup Variations
While the classic version is hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on One Pot Lasagna Soup. You could try swapping ground turkey or Italian sausage for the beef, or adding in some fresh spinach or zucchini for extra veggies.
For a seasonal twist, try making a pumpkin or butternut squash version in the fall, or a light, lemony version with fresh herbs in the spring. The possibilities are endless!
Making One Pot Lasagna Soup Diet-Friendly
If you’re looking to make your One Pot Lasagna Soup a bit more diet-friendly, there are a few easy substitutions you can try. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free lasagna noodles or even spiralized zucchini or squash.
To make it vegan, simply omit the beef and cheese, and use a plant-based ricotta alternative. You can also swap the regular pasta noodles for lentil or chickpea-based ones to boost the protein and fiber.
No matter how you customize it, One Pot Lasagna Soup is sure to be a hit. It’s a cozy, comforting dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a satisfying solo meal. So why not give it a try and see why it’s become a new family favorite in my house?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use regular lasagna noodles instead of breaking them up?
A: Absolutely! If you don’t want to break the noodles, you can layer them whole in the pot, just like you would for a traditional lasagna. The noodles will soften and become tender as the soup simmers.
Q: How long does the soup need to simmer?
A: The key is to let the soup simmer for at least 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop. This gives the tomatoes time to break down and the herbs and spices to infuse the broth. You can certainly let it go longer if you have the time.
Q: Can I make One Pot Lasagna Soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, One Pot Lasagna Soup is a great make-ahead meal. The soup will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days, and it actually gets better as the flavors meld together. When you’re ready to serve it, just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: How many people does this recipe serve?
A: This recipe makes about 6-8 generous servings of One Pot Lasagna Soup. It’s a hearty, filling dish, so a single serving is usually enough for a complete meal. If you’re feeding a larger crowd, you can easily double or triple the recipe.
Q: What if my soup turns out too thick?
A: If your One Pot Lasagna Soup ends up being thicker than you’d like, simply add a bit more broth or water to thin it out. Start with 1/2 cup at a time, stirring well to incorporate it, until you reach your desired consistency.
One Pot Lasagna Soup
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 6
Description
One Pot Lasagna Soup is a cozy and comforting dish that delivers all the flavors of traditional lasagna in an easy-to-make soup form. Loaded with ground beef, tomatoes, pasta, and melty cheese, this 30-minute meal is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 cups water
– 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into 1-inch pieces
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. – In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned and crumbled, 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
2. – Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. – Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
4. – Pour in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. – Add the broken lasagna noodles, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender, about 15-20 minutes.
6. – Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted and well combined.
7. – Ladle the One Pot Lasagna Soup into bowls and serve hot.
Notes
– For a thicker soup, use less water.
– Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, or crushed red pepper flakes.
– Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Conclusion
There’s just something so comforting and satisfying about a big bowl of One Pot Lasagna Soup. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, and brings people together around the table. And with this easy, one-pot recipe, you can enjoy all the classic flavors of lasagna without any of the fuss.
So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to make this new family favorite. I promise, it’ll become a go-to in your house, just like it is in mine. And don’t forget to let me know how it turns out – I’d love to hear your thoughts!
