The Best 30-Minute Lasagna Soup

When you’re craving the comforting layers of a classic lasagna but are short on time, this The Best 30-Minute Lasagna Soup is the answer to your culinary prayers. Packed with savory sausage, rich tomatoes, and gooey cheese, this soup brings all the flavors of traditional lasagna to your bowl in a fraction of the time. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into how to bring this delicious dish to life!

Why It Works Every Time

The beauty of this The Best 30-Minute Lasagna Soup lies in its simplicity and speed. The combination of Italian sausage and aromatic vegetables creates a flavorful base, while the addition of lasagna noodles transforms the soup into a hearty meal. Using low-sodium chicken broth and canned tomatoes maximizes convenience without sacrificing flavor. Plus, the melty cheese topping is the cherry on top of this delicious dish, making it feel indulgent yet easy to prepare.

What You’ll Need

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound Johnsonville Fresh Italian Hot Ground Sausage (or mild sausage)
• 2 cups sweet Vidalia or yellow onion, peeled and diced small (about 1 large onion)
• 4 garlic cloves, peeled and finely minced
• 48 ounces low-sodium chicken broth (6 cups)
• 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes and juice (petite diced, no-salt-added)
• 14.5-ounce can fire-roasted tomatoes and juice
• 2 rounded tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 or 3 bay leaves
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 to 2 teaspoons salt, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional and to taste
• 8 ounces lasagna noodles (about 10 noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces)
• ½ cup fresh Italian flat-leaf parsley leaves, discard stems, finely minced
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, divided

Hardware & Gadgets

• Large pot or Dutch oven – ideal for simmering the soup.
• Wooden spoon – for stirring and breaking up the sausage.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure precise ingredient amounts.
• Knife and cutting board – for chopping vegetables easily.
• Serving bowls – to enjoy your delicious soup!

The Best 30-Minute Lasagna Soup: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Johnsonville Fresh Italian Hot Ground Sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Sauté until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Once the sausage is cooked, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), fire-roasted tomatoes (with juice), and tomato paste. Toss in the bay leaves, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Bring to a Boil

Increase the heat and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Add the Noodles

Break the lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and add them to the soup. Cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Stir in Fresh Ingredients

Once the noodles are cooked, remove the bay leaves from the pot. Stir in the minced parsley and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, allowing it to melt into the soup.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. Optionally, add more fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Better Choices & Swaps

• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the sausage for a leaner option.
• Use whole wheat lasagna noodles for added fiber.
• Swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as gouda or fontina, for a unique flavor twist.

Cook’s Commentary

This The Best 30-Minute Lasagna Soup is a versatile recipe that can be easily adjusted to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to get creative by adding vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition. The soup can also be made ahead of time; just store it in the refrigerator and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. The flavors deepen and improve overnight, making it even more delicious the next day!

Best Ways to Store

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the soup for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra broth or water to achieve your desired consistency, as the noodles will absorb some of the liquid over time.

Common Qs About The Best 30-Minute Lasagna Soup

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will only improve as they meld together, making it an excellent option for meal prep.

Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?

Absolutely! Simply replace the ground sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it entirely and load up on your favorite vegetables for a hearty vegetarian soup.

Can I use different types of noodles?

While lasagna noodles are traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.

How do I reheat the soup without overcooking the noodles?

To avoid overcooking the noodles, reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of broth or water to loosen the soup as needed and stir frequently until heated through.

Quick Weeknight Wins

• Easy Chicken Soup – A cozy, comforting bowl of chicken soup.
• Quick and Easy Vegan Chili – A hearty chili packed with flavor.
• 30-Minute Coconut Curry – A quick and delicious curry dish.
• One-Pot Pasta – A simple and flavorful pasta dish.

In Closing

There’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of a bowl of soup, especially when it brings the beloved flavors of lasagna to your table in just 30 minutes. This The Best 30-Minute Lasagna Soup is not only quick and easy but also deeply satisfying. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s bound to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. So gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and indulge in a delightful bowl of comforting goodness. Happy cooking!