If you’ve ever wished for a cozy, comforting meal that combines all the best parts of a classic Italian favorite with the ease of a hearty soup, you’re in for a treat with this Savory Italian Baked Lasagna Soup Recipe. Imagine layers of lasagna flavors—rich meat, tangy tomato, creamy cheeses, and fresh herbs—all beautifully simmered together in one pot. It’s like a warm Italian hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave that authentic lasagna magic without the fuss of baking and slicing. This recipe brings the familiar joy of baked lasagna into an irresistibly slurpable form that everyone at your table will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this spectacular soup, and you’ll be amazed at how straightforward yet essential each component is. From the hearty ground beef to the fresh spinach and the blend of flavorful cheeses, every ingredient plays a vital role in building the layers of taste, texture, and vibrant color that make this recipe shine.
- Olive oil: A good base for sautéing that adds subtle fruity richness and helps build flavor.
- Ground beef or Italian sausage: Delivers the robust, meaty heart of the soup with delicious seasoning.
- Medium onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and depth when softened gently.
- Garlic, minced: Infuses pungent warmth and a classic Italian aroma.
- Dried oregano & basil: These herbs bring signature Mediterranean earthiness to the dish.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Provide a subtle kick of heat for those who like a little spice.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance the overall flavor.
- Chicken or beef broth: Creates a rich, savory liquid base that brings everything together.
- Crushed tomatoes: Adds vibrant tomato flavor and classic Italian acidity.
- Tomato paste: Intensifies tomato richness and thickens the broth slightly for a hearty texture.
- Ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it lends softness and decadence when stirred in.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Sharp and nutty, perfect for enhancing the cheesy goodness.
- Lasagna noodles, broken into pieces: The iconic pasta element that provides satisfying bite and heartiness.
- Fresh spinach leaves: Adds bright color, nutrition, and a light leafy texture.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top, creating that gooey, melty layer reminiscent of baked lasagna.
- Fresh basil, chopped: A fragrant garnish that lifts each spoonful with freshness.
How to Make Savory Italian Baked Lasagna Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat and Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then add your ground beef or Italian sausage. As it cooks, break it apart with your spoon until it’s browned beautifully and full of savory juices. This step sets the foundation of rich flavor you’ll taste in every bite. Next, toss in the diced onion and cook until it’s softened and translucent. Stir in minced garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes if you’re using them, as well as salt and pepper. Cook this fragrant mixture for an additional minute—this combo of herbs and aromatics will fill your kitchen with irresistible smells.
Step 2: Build the Soup Base
Pour in the broth, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste, stirring everything together so the flavors meld. Bring the mixture up to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer undisturbed for 20 to 25 minutes. This slow simmer allows the seasoning to deepen and the tomato brightness to balance with the savoriness of the meat and herbs—exactly what a great Savory Italian Baked Lasagna Soup Recipe demands.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta and Add Greens
Once your soup base has developed amazing flavor, stir in the broken lasagna noodles carefully. Let them cook until just al dente, about 10 minutes. During this time, the noodles absorb all the wonderful tomato-infused broth without getting mushy. Then add your fresh spinach leaves, cooking for just 2 to 3 minutes until they’re tender and vibrant green. This addition brings a delicate contrast in texture and a fresh pop of color to the dish.
Step 4: Layer the Creamy Cheeses
In a small bowl, mix together smooth ricotta cheese and sharp grated Parmesan. Spoon dollops of this luscious cheese mixture into the soup, gently stirring to distribute creamy pockets throughout—this little step adds a layer of decadence that mirrors the traditional baked lasagna experience. Remove the pot from heat and top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover and let it rest for a few minutes until that luscious mozzarella melts perfectly, creating a gooey, irresistible finish.
How to Serve Savory Italian Baked Lasagna Soup Recipe
Garnishes
The final touch for your Savory Italian Baked Lasagna Soup Recipe is a sprinkle of fresh chopped basil. Its aromatic herbaceousness cuts through the richness and adds a burst of brightness with every spoonful. For extra flair, consider a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a dusting of extra Parmesan cheese to elevate the presentation and flavor even further.
Side Dishes
This soup shines as a full meal on its own, but pairing it with crisp garlic bread or warm focaccia can take the experience to the next level. A simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint, balancing the soup’s richness with crunch and acidity, making your meal feel complete and beautifully rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Savory Italian Baked Lasagna Soup Recipe in individual mini cocottes or ramekins topped with an extra layer of mozzarella then broil until golden and bubbly—just like personal baked lasagnas! Alternatively, garnish each serving with a small parmesan crisp for crunch or a dollop of pesto to add an herbal surprise going beyond the classic flavor palette.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Savory Italian Baked Lasagna Soup can be stored comfortably in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the cheese toppings separate when possible to maintain that fresh melted texture when reheated.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the soup without the fresh spinach and cheese. Once cooled completely, transfer the soup to freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and add fresh spinach and cheeses just before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat your stored soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens too much. If you kept the cheeses separate, add the ricotta mixture and mozzarella near the end of reheating so they melt freshly and stay creamy without becoming grainy.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work well and give you a leaner version of the soup, though the flavor will be slightly milder. Be sure to season carefully to keep the rich taste intact.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the meat for plant-based crumbles or hearty mushrooms to keep that savory depth. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth, and all other ingredients remain the same for a delicious vegetarian twist.
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles instead of broken regular noodles?
While traditional broken lasagna noodles work best, no-boil lasagna noodles can be chopped and used as well. Just allow a bit more cooking time for them to soften fully in the soup.
How spicy is this soup with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth and subtle heat, enhancing the overall flavor without overpowering. You can easily omit or adjust the amount depending on your preference.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can brown the meat and sauté the aromatics separately, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add pasta and spinach towards the end to prevent overcooking.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a meal that wraps you in warmth and Italian comfort, this Savory Italian Baked Lasagna Soup Recipe is a must-try. It’s hearty, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying with every spoonful, plus it delivers all the happiness of lasagna with less fuss and more versatility. I can’t wait for you to make it and share this delicious experience with your loved ones—you’re going to fall in love with this soup just like I did!
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Savory Italian Baked Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This comforting Savory Italian Baked Lasagna Soup combines all the classic flavors of traditional lasagna into a warm, hearty soup. Featuring browned ground beef or Italian sausage, aromatic herbs, crushed tomatoes, and layers of cheesy goodness with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, this soup is perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week. It’s an easy stovetop recipe that delivers the same delicious satisfaction as the classic baked dish in a bowl.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Herbs and Spices
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Liquids and Tomato Base
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
Pasta and Cheese
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Greens and Garnish
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon to ensure even cooking.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Tomato Base: Pour in the chicken or beef broth, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir everything together thoroughly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Simmer the Soup: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 20 to 25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Cook the Lasagna Noodles: Stir in the broken lasagna noodles and cook uncovered until the noodles are al dente, approximately 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Spinach: Incorporate the fresh spinach leaves into the soup and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
- Add Ricotta and Parmesan: In a small bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with the grated Parmesan cheese. Spoon dollops of this cheese mixture into the soup and gently stir to blend the flavors without fully dissolving the cheese.
- Melt the Mozzarella: Remove the pot from heat. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the soup, then cover the pot and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese melts wonderfully.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped basil for a bright, fresh finish. Enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with Italian sausage or ground turkey for a different flavor profile.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead.
- If you prefer a spicier soup, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- Adding the ricotta in dollops creates a creamy texture in the soup; stir gently to avoid fully mixing it in.
- This soup is best served immediately but can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
