Lasagna Soup with Ricotta

Lasagna Soup with Ricotta is the perfect fusion of comforting pasta and hearty soup all in one bowl. Imagine the rich flavors of a classic lasagna simmered into a warm, inviting soup, topped with creamy ricotta and melty mozzarella cheese. This recipe packs all the goodness of lasagna without the fuss of layering and baking, making it a weeknight winner for busy kitchens. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a chilly evening or something special that the whole family will love, this soup delivers on taste and simplicity. Plus, it uses simple ingredients like ground beef, crushed tomatoes, and fresh herbs to create a soul-satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

Lasagna Soup with Ricotta stands out because it combines convenience with classic Italian flavors. It’s a one-pot wonder that gives you all the layers of lasagna — the savory meat, tomato sauce, tender noodles, and creamy cheeses — without the extra steps. The ricotta adds a luscious creaminess that balances the acidity of the tomatoes and the richness of the beef. Plus, it’s flexible and forgiving; you can easily swap ingredients or adjust seasonings to suit your taste. This soup is perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or even casual entertaining when you want something impressive but stress-free. If you love the taste of The Best Homemade Lasagna Recipe, you’ll adore this quick and cozy soup version.

What to Buy

• 1 lb ground beef – Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
• 1 onion – Medium-sized, chopped finely for a base of flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic – Minced to infuse the broth with aromatic warmth.
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes – Provides a rich tomato base essential to the soup.
• 4 cups beef broth – Use a good quality broth for depth of flavor.
• 1 tsp dried oregano – Adds classic Italian herb notes.
• 1 tsp dried basil – Complements oregano and freshens the soup.
• 8 lasagna noodles – Broken into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese – The creamy star topping that makes this soup irresistible.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully on top.
• Salt and pepper – To season to taste.
• Fresh basil (optional) – For garnish and an extra herbal kick.

Must-Have Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven – For browning the beef and simmering the soup.
• Wooden spoon – To stir and scrape the bottom of the pot.
• Knife and cutting board – For chopping onions and garlic.
• Measuring spoons and cups – To keep the seasoning balanced.
• Ladle – For serving the soup into bowls.

Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Cooking Guide

Step 1: Sauté the aromatics and brown the beef

Heat your large pot over medium heat and add the ground beef. Break it apart with your spoon and cook until it starts to brown. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step builds the flavor foundation for your soup.

Step 2: Add tomatoes, broth, and herbs

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, stirring to combine. Sprinkle in the dried oregano and basil, then season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer. This creates the rich, tomatoey broth that’s the heart of the soup.

Step 3: Break and cook the noodles

Break the lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and add them directly to the simmering soup. Allow the noodles to cook for about 10 minutes or until tender but still slightly firm. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Prepare the cheese topping

While the noodles cook, mix the ricotta and mozzarella cheese together in a small bowl. You can add a pinch of salt or a little pepper to the ricotta if you like.

Step 5: Serve and garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and dollop a generous spoonful of the ricotta and mozzarella mixture on top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. The cheese will slowly melt into the hot soup, creating a luscious, creamy bite every time.

International Equivalents

• Italy: Traditional lasagna layered with béchamel, meat sauce, and pasta sheets.
• France: Soupe à la tomate avec pâtes, a tomato soup variant with pasta and cheese.
• United States: Classic beef and cheese lasagna casserole, often baked with ricotta and mozzarella.
• Middle East: Tomato-based meat stews with pasta or bulgur, served with yogurt or cheese toppings.

Missteps & Fixes

• Broth too watery: Simmer the soup uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce liquid and concentrate flavors.
• Noodles mushy: Cook noodles just until al dente; they will soften more in the hot soup.
• Sauce too acidic: Add a pinch of sugar or a splash of cream to balance the acidity.
• Cheese clumping: Soften ricotta slightly by stirring it well before dolloping on the soup to avoid clumps.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This soup is fantastic for making ahead. You can prepare the base (meat, broth, and tomato mixture) a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, reheat the soup and add broken noodles to cook fresh. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The noodles will continue to absorb liquid, so add a splash of broth or water when reheating to loosen it up. For longer storage, freeze the soup without the noodles for up to 3 months and add fresh noodles when reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes work well in this recipe. Adjust cooking times if needed to ensure the protein is fully cooked.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a hearty texture. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it flavorful.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, fresh oregano and basil can be used. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried, adding them towards the end of cooking to preserve their bright flavors.

How do I prevent the noodles from getting soggy?

Add the noodles right before serving or cook them separately and add them to each bowl when plating. This keeps them firm and prevents the soup from becoming overly thick.

Quick Weeknight Wins

• Creamy Chicken Florentine Soup – Another hearty and creamy soup option perfect for busy evenings.
• The Best Homemade Lasagna Recipe – For when you want the classic baked version of lasagna.
• Creamy, comforting soups – Explore a variety of rich and tasty soup recipes.

Bring It Home

Lasagna Soup with Ricotta is a crowd-pleaser that brings the essence of Italian comfort food into a cozy bowl. It’s simple enough for weeknight cooking but special enough for weekend gatherings. The combination of savory beef, tangy tomato broth, tender pasta, and creamy cheese creates a balanced, satisfying meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to customize and store, making it a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire. Next time you crave lasagna but want something quicker and easier, this soup is your go-to. Serve it with a crisp salad or garlic bread to complete the meal and enjoy every delicious spoonful.

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