There is nothing more comforting than a warm, hearty bowl of Creamy Lasagna Soup on a crisp evening. This recipe captures all the iconic flavors of a traditional baked lasagna but eliminates the tedious layering and long oven wait times. My three children always rush to the table when they smell the savory Italian sausage and aromatic garlic simmering on the stove.
You get the perfect balance of rich tomato broth, tender noodles, and a velvety cheese garnish that melts beautifully into every bite. Making this Creamy Lasagna Soup allows me to serve a nourishing, soul-warming meal in just under forty minutes. It is the ultimate family-friendly shortcut that delivers deep, complex flavors without the heavy lifting of a classic pasta bake.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Lasagna Soup
- One-Pot Simplicity: You cook everything in a single Dutch oven or large pot, which means fewer dishes and a faster cleanup for busy parents.
- Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of Italian sausage, beef broth, and heavy cream creates a luxurious Creamy Lasagna Soup base that rivals any high-end restaurant dish.
- Easily Customizable: You can easily swap proteins or add extra vegetables to this Creamy Lasagna Soup to suit your family’s dietary needs and preferences.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: The flavors of the Creamy Lasagna Soup actually deepen overnight, making it a fantastic option for next-day lunches or freezer-friendly dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the best Creamy Lasagna Soup, you must prioritize high-quality ingredients. Using fresh herbs and high-grade cheese significantly improves the final taste. Below is the list of everything you need to get started.
| Ingredient Category | Items Required |
|---|---|
| Proteins | 1 lb Italian Sausage (mild or hot), 1/2 lb Ground Beef (optional) |
| Vegetables & Aromatics | 1 Yellow Onion (diced), 4 cloves Garlic (minced), 2 cups Fresh Spinach |
| Liquid Base | 6 cups Beef Broth, 1 can (15 oz) Tomato Sauce, 1 can (14.5 oz) Diced Tomatoes |
| Pasta & Dairy | 8-10 Lasagna Noodles (broken), 1 cup Heavy Cream, 1/2 cup Parmesan |
| Garnish & Cheese Mix | 1 cup Ricotta Cheese, 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella, Fresh Basil |
| Seasonings | 2 tsp Italian Seasoning, 1/2 tsp Salt, 1/4 tsp Black Pepper, 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes |
Substitutions & Variations
Note: This video is for demonstration purposes and may use a slightly different method.
I often experiment with this Creamy Lasagna Soup based on what I have in my pantry. If you want a leaner version of Creamy Lasagna Soup, you can substitute the Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken sausage. Furthermore, you can use whole-grain lasagna noodles or gluten-free pasta if your family has specific dietary restrictions. For a boost of nutrition, I highly recommend adding diced zucchini or bell peppers during the sautéing phase.
If you prefer a dairy-free Creamy Lasagna Soup, you can use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream. Additionally, nutritional yeast or a vegan ricotta alternative can provide that essential cheesy flavor without the lactose. However, always remember that the creaminess is what defines a Creamy Lasagna Soup, so do not skip the thickening agent entirely. Using low-sodium beef broth is another great way to control the salt content in your Creamy Lasagna Soup while keeping the flavor profile robust.
If you’re looking to enhance your Creamy Lasagna Soup with nutritious ingredients, consider experimenting with proteins. For a delicious twist, you can try the High-Protein Kale Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad that pairs beautifully with heartier soups.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Meat: Place a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and diced onions. Cook until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent. Drain any excess fat to keep your Creamy Lasagna Soup from becoming too oily.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1 minute until the fragrance fills your kitchen. This step is crucial for developing the base flavors of the Creamy Lasagna Soup.
- Add the Liquids: Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
- Cook the Noodles: Break the lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and drop them into the boiling liquid. Reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the Creamy Lasagna Soup cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the pasta reaches an al dente texture.
- Make it Creamy: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and fresh spinach. The heat from the Creamy Lasagna Soup will wilt the spinach in seconds. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it is fully melted.
- Prepare the Cheese Topping: In a small bowl, mix the ricotta, mozzarella, and a pinch of salt. This cheesy mixture is what transforms the dish into a true Creamy Lasagna Soup experience.
- Serve: Ladle the Creamy Lasagna Soup into deep bowls. Place a generous dollop of the ricotta mixture on top of each serving and garnish with fresh basil.
Pro Tips for Success
To achieve the most consistent results with your Creamy Lasagna Soup, pay close attention to the pasta. If you plan on having leftovers, I suggest cooking the noodles separately and adding them to individual bowls. Otherwise, the noodles will continue to absorb the liquid and may become mushy by the next day. A great Creamy Lasagna Soup should have a distinct broth rather than a thick pasta-like consistency.
Another tip for a superior Creamy Lasagna Soup is to deglaze the pot. After browning the meat, use a splash of red wine or a bit of the beef broth to scrape up the brown bits (fond) from the bottom of the pan.
These bits hold incredible flavor that deepens the profile of the Creamy Lasagna Soup. Lastly, always use fresh garlic instead of the bottled version; the pungent, sweet notes of fresh garlic are essential for an authentic Italian taste in your Creamy Lasagna Soup.
Maintaining the perfect texture of your noodles is crucial in achieving the best Creamy Lasagna Soup. To ensure your leftovers remain fresh, serve them with a refreshing drink like Zesty Detox Water to cleanse the palate.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Storing Creamy Lasagna Soup is simple, but it requires a bit of care. Place any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. When you are ready to eat your Creamy Lasagna Soup again, reheat it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. You might need to add a splash of broth or water to thin it out, as the pasta naturally thickens the soup over time.
For those who want to freeze Creamy Lasagna Soup, I recommend freezing the soup base without the noodles or the cream. Dairy sometimes separates when frozen and thawed, and noodles can lose their structure.
To enjoy your frozen Creamy Lasagna Soup, thaw it in the fridge overnight, bring it to a simmer on the stove, and then add fresh noodles and cream right before serving. This ensures your Creamy Lasagna Soup tastes just as fresh as the day you made it.
What to Serve With This Recipe
While this Creamy Lasagna Soup is a complete meal on its own, a few healthy sides can elevate the dinner experience. I love serving a crisp green salad with a light lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the Creamy Lasagna Soup. The acidity of the dressing balances the creamy cheese and savory sausage perfectly.
Additionally, roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli florets make an excellent accompaniment to Creamy Lasagna Soup. For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, a side of garlic herb crostini or a warm crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth of the Creamy Lasagna Soup. My kids often enjoy simple carrot sticks or sliced cucumbers on the side to add a fresh, crunchy element to their Creamy Lasagna Soup night.
While Creamy Lasagna Soup makes for a satisfying meal on its own, complementing it with healthy sides can elevate your dining experience. A light salad or roasted vegetables can enhance the meal, and for a hydrating side, consider trying Refreshing Detox Water.
FAQs
Can I make Creamy Lasagna Soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can definitely adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the meat and onions first, then transfer them to the crockpot with the tomatoes, broth, and seasonings. Cook on low for 6 hours. Add the noodles, cream, and spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking to ensure the Creamy Lasagna Soup maintains the right texture.
What is the best pasta for Creamy Lasagna Soup?
Traditionally, broken lasagna noodles are the best choice for Creamy Lasagna Soup because they provide the authentic look and feel of the classic dish. However, if you don’t have them on hand, mafaldine or campanelle pasta works beautifully. These shapes have ridges that hold the Creamy Lasagna Soup broth and cheese quite well.
How do I make the soup even creamier without more fat?
If you want to enhance the texture of your Creamy Lasagna Soup without adding more heavy cream, you can blend a small portion of the soup base (without the noodles). Alternatively, stirring in a little bit of Greek yogurt or pureed white beans can add thickness and protein to the Creamy Lasagna Soup while keeping it relatively light.
Creamy Lasagna Soup combines the beloved flavors of traditional lasagna into a hearty soup format. This variation not only simplifies preparation but also allows for easy customization, making it a versatile choice for family dinners and gatherings. For more information on its origins and variations, check out this detailed overview on soup.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Providing a nutritious meal for my family is my top priority. This Creamy Lasagna Soup is packed with protein and iron. Below is a simple breakdown of the nutritional content for a single serving of this delicious Creamy Lasagna Soup.
| Metric | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Total Fat | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 890mg |
Ultimately, this Creamy Lasagna Soup represents everything I love about family cooking. It is simple, comforting, and full of nourishing ingredients that satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you are a busy parent or just looking for a cozy meal, Creamy Lasagna Soup is a recipe you will return to time and time again. Enjoy the process of creating this Creamy Lasagna Soup and the joy of sharing it with those you love.
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Creamy Lasagna Soup
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free option available
Description
Creamy Lasagna Soup is a warm, hearty dish that captures all the iconic flavors of traditional lasagna but simplifies the process. It features savory Italian sausage, tender noodles, and a velvety cheese garnish, all combined in a rich tomato broth that can be made in just under forty minutes.
Ingredients
1 lb Italian Sausage
1/2 lb Ground Beef
1 Yellow Onion (diced)
4 cloves Garlic (minced)
2 cups Fresh Spinach
6 cups Beef Broth
1 can (15 oz) Tomato Sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) Diced Tomatoes
8–10 Lasagna Noodles (broken)
1 cup Heavy Cream
1/2 cup Parmesa
1 cup Ricotta Cheese
1 cup Shredded Mozzarella
Fresh Basil
2 tsp Italian Seasoning
1/2 tsp Salt
1/4 tsp Black Pepper
1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: Place a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and diced onions. Cook until browned and the onions are translucent
- Sauté the Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant
- Add the Liquids: Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine and bring to a boil
- Cook the Noodles: Break the lasagna noodles into pieces and add them to the boiling liquid. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes
- Make it Creamy: Stir in the heavy cream and spinach. Add Parmesan cheese until melted
- Prepare the Cheese Topping: Mix ricotta, mozzarella, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, top with the ricotta mixture, and garnish with fresh basil
Notes
Cook noodles separately if storing leftovers to avoid mushiness.
Deglaze pot after browning meat for added flavor.
Use fresh garlic for a better taste.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg