Step-by-step instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, start by browning the ground beef over medium-high heat until completely cooked. Remember to drain any excess fat for a cleaner dish.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot; sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes to let those flavors meld.
- Toss in the broken lasagna noodles and stir everything together. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until the noodles are tender.
- Finally, stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Cook until the cheeses have melted and the soup is heated throughout. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious creation!
Best ways to enjoy it
To serve this fabulous lasagna soup, consider garnishing it with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with crusty garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. For a bit of crunch, you can sprinkle extra cheese on top just before serving, allowing it to melt into the soup.
Storage and reheating tips
Storing leftovers is simple: allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just be mindful that the noodles might absorb some liquid upon reheating, so you may want to add a bit more broth or water.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few tips to enhance your lasagna soup making experience:
- Brown the beef well: This adds depth to the soup’s flavor.
- Adjust the spice: Feel free to increase or decrease the red pepper flakes based on your family’s spice tolerance. You could also add in other spices like Italian seasoning or thyme for additional layers.
- Fresh herbs: If available, use fresh basil and oregano instead of dried for an even more aromatic result.
- Let it sit: This soup is just as tasty, if not better, the next day, as the flavors continue to meld together.
Creative twists
Looking to shake things up? There are various ways to customize your lasagna soup:
- Vegetarian option: Swap out the ground beef for a medley of sautéed vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers or even lentils for protein.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta or skip the noodles entirely by adding in more vegetables.
- Cheesy additions: For a richer flavor, add in ricotta cheese with the heavy cream or top with burrata for a gourmet touch.
- Italian sausage: For a bolder flavor, replace the ground beef with Italian sausage, which will add aromatic spices to the mix.
FAQs
What’s the prep time and cook time for lasagna soup?
You can expect about 10-15 minutes of prep time, and cooking it will take around 30 minutes, making this a quick go-to meal.
Can I substitute ground beef for something healthier?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great, as do plant-based meat alternatives if you want a vegan option.
Is it safe to freeze leftover lasagna soup?
Yes, this soup freezes very well! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container and label it with the date for future reference.
With its hearty flavors and comforting textures, lasagna soup is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience. Try it out this week and enjoy a delicious dinner that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
