There’s something truly magical about taking a beloved dish like lasagna and transforming it into a comforting soup. My stovetop lasagna soup captures all those rich, savory flavors you adore, but in a wonderfully easy, one-pot wonder. The tender pasta pieces swim in a robust tomato broth, studded with flavorful meat and finished with creamy cheese – it’s pure bliss.
This soup is a lifesaver on chilly evenings when comfort food calls. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone gathered around the table smile. Honestly, it’s become a go-to favorite for busy nights because it’s so satisfying and simple to whip up.
Why I Love This Recipe
This stovetop lasagna soup is a weeknight warrior! It’s incredibly quick, making it perfect after a long day. You get all that classic lasagna taste without the fuss of layering sheets of pasta. It’s a hearty, comforting bowl that feels special enough for company but comforting enough for a cozy night in. Truly, it’s a winner for busy cooks like us!
Stovetop Lasagna Soup Ingredients
The beauty of this stovetop lasagna soup lies in its ability to bring together simple, wholesome ingredients into something truly spectacular. It’s a symphony of rich tomato, savory meat, tender pasta, and creamy cheese that just sings comfort.
Core Ingredients and Their Roles
A large onion and 3 cloves of garlic form the aromatic foundation, building depth as they soften. For that essential tomato taste, we use28 ounces of crushed tomatoes and6 ounces of tomato paste, creating a rich, thick sauce. The liquid love comes from4 cups of beef or chicken broth. Pantry staples like dried basil and dried oregano lend those classic Italian notes, while red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth, if you like a little kick. Lasagna noodles are, of course, key; broken into bite-sized pieces,6-8 lasagna noodles offer that beloved pasta element. Finally, a trio of cheeses –fresh Parmesan, ricotta cheese, and shredded mozzarella – brings it all together with creamy, indulgent goodness.
Substitutions and Tips
Feeling like going meatless? No problem! Simply swap the ground meat for your favorite vegetables like chopped zucchini, bell peppers, or a handful of fresh spinach stirred in at the end. Use vegetable broth instead of meat broth for a fully vegetarian stovetop lasagna soup. If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to omit the red pepper flakes entirely. To ensure your lasagna noodles cook perfectly and don’t stick, make sure they are fully submerged in the simmering broth. You can break them into roughly 1-2 inch pieces. For an extra flavor boost, try adding a bay leaf while the soup simmers, and don’t forget to remove it before serving!
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven (essential for browning and simmering)
- Cutting board and knife (for chopping onion and garlic)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula (for stirring)
- Small bowl (for the cheese topping)
- Ladle (for serving)
How to Make Stovetop Lasagna Soup
Let’s dive into creating this delicious stovetop lasagna soup. It’s a straightforward process, perfect for any home cook wanting a hearty meal without the mess.
Browning the Meat and Aromatics
First, heat1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add1 pound of ground beef or Italian sausage. Cook this, breaking it up with your spoon, until it’s nice and brown. Pour off any extra fat. Now, toss in1 large chopped onion. Let it cook until it’s soft and see-through, about five to seven minutes. Next, add3 minced cloves of garlic. Cook just one minute more until you can smell its lovely fragrance.
Building the Flavorful Broth
Time to build that incredible soup base. Stir in1 (28 ounce) can of crushed tomatoes and1 (6 ounce) can of tomato paste. Pour in4 cups of beef or chicken broth. Add1 teaspoon of dried basil and1 teaspoon of dried oregano. If you like a little heat, stir in1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Season it with salt and pepper to your liking. Give it a good stir. Bring this whole wonderful mixture to a rolling boil.
Cooking the Lasagna Noodles
Now for the pasta! Add6-8 broken lasagna noodles right into the boiling broth. Make sure they break apart easily. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot tightly. Let it simmer gently for about 15 to 20 minutes. The goal is for the noodles to become perfectly tender. Stir every so often to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot. This quick lasagna soup is coming together!
Preparing the Cheesy Topping
While the noodles are doing their thing, let’s whip up the creamy topping. Grab a small bowl. Combine1 cup of ricotta cheese,1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and1/2 cup of fresh Parmesan cheese. Mix these cheeses together well. A little pinch of salt and pepper will enhance their flavors beautifully.
Final Touches and Serving
Once the noodles are tender, give your soup a taste. Does it need more salt or pepper? Adjust it until it’s perfect. Ladle the hot soup into your favorite bowls. Top each serving generously with a dollop of that cheesy ricotta mixture. Sprinkle a little more fresh Parmesan cheese over the top. Serve this amazing stovetop lasagna soup right away.
How to Store Stovetop Lasagna Soup
Leftover stovetop lasagna soup stores beautifully! Let it cool down completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooled soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. The cheesy topping is best added fresh when serving.
Tips for Success
- Use good quality crushed tomatoes for the best flavor base.
- Ensure noodles are fully submerged while cooking to prevent sticking.
- Taste and adjust seasonings before serving for perfect flavor.
- Pre-mix the cheese topping ahead to save time during dinner rush.
- Don’t overcook the noodles; they should be tender, not mushy.
- Let soup rest a minute off heat before adding cheese topping.
Serving Suggestions
- A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a lovely contrast.
- Crusty garlic bread is perfect for dipping up every last drop.
- A glass of medium-bodied red wine, like Chianti, complements the rich flavors.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and fresh aroma.
Stovetop Lasagna Soup
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A hearty and flavorful Stovetop Lasagna Soup that brings all the deliciousness of lasagna to a comforting soup, made easily on the stovetop.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 4 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 6–8 lasagna noodles, broken into 1–2 inch pieces
- 1/2 cup fresh Parmesan cheese, grated, plus more for serving
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef or Italian sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
- Add chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a boil.
- Add the broken lasagna noodle pieces to the soup. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the noodles are tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the soup simmers, prepare the cheese topping: In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Once noodles are tender, taste the soup and adjust seasonings if needed.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top each serving with a dollop of the ricotta mixture and a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and use vegetable broth. You can also add your favorite vegetables like zucchini or spinach.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
- Ensure the lasagna noodles are fully submerged in the liquid to cook properly.
- The cheese topping can be prepared ahead of time and added just before serving.
