A hearty and flavorful one-pot beef lasagna soup that captures the essence of classic lasagna with minimal fuss. This recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a simple yet impressive dish for guests.
Author:Emily
Prep Time:15 Minutes
Cook Time:45 Minutes
Total Time:1 Hour
Yield:8 servings 1x
Category:Soup
Method:One-Pot
Cuisine:Italian-American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 pound lean ground beef
1 large yellow onion, finely diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
6 cups beef broth
2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional)
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into 1–2 inch pieces
1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
For the Creamy Ricotta Topping:
15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt, to taste (for ricotta topping)
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste (for ricotta topping)
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound lean ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned (5-7 minutes). Drain any excess grease.
Reduce heat to medium. Add the finely diced yellow onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Push the meat and onion mixture to one side of the pot. Spoon 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste into the cleared area and cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing it to caramelize slightly. Stir the tomato paste into the meat mixture until well combined.
Pour in 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes and 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices). Add 6 cups beef broth, 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (if using), and 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (if using). Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir everything together thoroughly.
Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover partially, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and deepen.
Uncover the pot and add 8 ounces broken lasagna noodles. Stir them into the soup, ensuring they are fully submerged. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently, until the noodles are tender but still have a slight bite (al dente). If the soup becomes too thick, add a little extra broth or hot water, 1/4 cup at a time, to reach desired consistency.
Optional: For a richer, creamier texture, stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half during the last 5 minutes of cooking the noodles.
Carefully taste the soup and adjust seasonings (salt, pepper, Italian seasoning) to your preference.
Prepare the creamy ricotta topping: In a medium bowl, combine 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, and 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder. Season with a pinch of salt and a grind of fresh black pepper. Stir until well combined.
Ladle generous portions of the hot Hearty Lasagna Soup into individual bowls. Place a generous dollop of the creamy ricotta mixture in the center of each bowl and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately.
Notes
This soup is best enjoyed immediately after preparation.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
The noodles will continue to absorb liquid, so the soup may thicken upon standing. Add a splash of broth or water when reheating if needed.
For a spicier soup, increase the red pepper flakes.
Nutrition
Serving Size:Approximately 1.5 cups
Calories:Approximately 550-650 (will vary based on optional ingredients)