There’s something magical about lasagna—the layers of pasta, rich tomato sauce, creamy cheese, and savory meat all coming together in perfect harmony. But let’s be honest, as much as I love traditional lasagna, it can be time-consuming to make. That’s why I’m obsessed with this Creamy Lasagna Soup recipe. It captures all the flavors of the classic dish but in a cozy, spoonable form that’s ready in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup is a game-changer.
As someone who loves experimenting in the kitchen, I appreciate how versatile this recipe is. You can tweak it to suit your preferences—add more veggies, swap the meat, or even make it vegetarian. The creamy broth, tender pasta, and melty cheese make every bite feel like a warm hug. Trust me, once you try this soup, it’s going to become a regular in your rotation. Let’s dive into what you’ll need and how to make it!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Ground Italian sausage: This is the star of the soup, providing a rich, savory flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, you can use ground beef or turkey instead.
Onion and garlic: These aromatics form the flavor base of the soup. They add depth and a touch of sweetness that balances the richness of the sausage and cheese.
Crushed tomatoes: These give the soup its classic lasagna flavor. Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes for the best taste.
Chicken broth: This forms the liquid base of the soup, adding depth and richness. You can also use vegetable broth if you prefer.
Heavy cream: This is what makes the soup creamy and luxurious. For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk.
Lasagna noodles: Broken into pieces, these noodles mimic the texture of traditional lasagna. You can use regular or no-boil noodles.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, this seasoning brings all the flavors together.
Ricotta cheese: This adds a creamy, cheesy layer to the soup, just like in traditional lasagna.
Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese: These cheeses add gooeyness and a salty, nutty flavor that ties everything together.
Fresh basil: A garnish that adds a pop of freshness and brightness to the finished dish.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Creamy Lasagna Soup
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Use a wooden spoon to break it into small pieces as it cooks.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
Add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes, until al dente.
Step 5: Stir in the Cream
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine, then let the soup simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Add the Cheeses
In a small bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper. Drop spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture into the soup, then sprinkle in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Stir gently to melt the cheeses into the soup.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil. Serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese on the side.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Customize the Protein: Swap the Italian sausage for ground beef, turkey, or even plant-based meat for a different twist.
- Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream.
- Make It Ahead: This soup reheats beautifully, so it’s perfect for meal prep. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze Without Noodles: If you plan to freeze the soup, leave out the noodles and add them fresh when reheating to avoid mushiness.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the sausage and use vegetable broth. Add extra veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you have on hand. Penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if the soup thickens.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze it without the noodles. Cook the noodles fresh when you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with this soup?
A side of garlic bread or a simple green salad pairs perfectly with this hearty soup.
Enjoy making and savoring this Creamy Lasagna Soup—it’s comfort food at its finest!