In the cozy embrace of a chilly evening, there’s something magical about serving up a comforting bowl of Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup with Savory Herbs. This dish combines the warmth of traditional Italian lasagna with the simplicity of a soup, making it a delightful crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. With just 50 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a meal that elevates your weeknight menu without the hassle. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, so you can savor its rich flavors even on those busy days when cooking feels like a daunting task. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with the enticing aroma of herbs and melting cheese? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why is This Soup So Irresistible?
Comforting Warmth: This Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup brings the nostalgia of homemade lasagna straight to your bowl, perfect for chilly evenings.
Flavor Explosion: Loaded with savory herbs and rich tomatoes, each spoonful is bursting with flavor, making it a true crowd-pleaser for family and friends.
Quick and Easy: With just 50 minutes from prep to plate, it’s your go-to dish on busy nights—no need for takeout!
Versatile Delight: Customize it with your favorite proteins or veggies, similar to the flexibility of dishes like Cheesy Garlic Chicken or Italian Grinder Pasta.
Freezer-Friendly: This delightful soup stores perfectly, allowing you to enjoy its comforting flavors even on the craziest days. It’s truly the best of both worlds!
Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Olive oil – adds a rich, savory foundation to the dish.
• Medium onion – enhances flavor and sweetness when sautéed.
• Garlic cloves – minced for a punch of aromatic goodness.
• Ground beef or Italian sausage – choose this for a heartier protein option.
• Crushed tomatoes – provides a robust base with that classic Italian flavor.
• Chicken or vegetable broth – use low-sodium for a more controlled salt level.
• Tomato paste – concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the soup.
• Dried basil – infuses the soup with comforting herbal notes.
• Dried oregano – classic Italian herb that complements the overall flavor.
• Dried thyme – adds a subtle earthy flavor to balance the dish.
• Red pepper flakes (optional) – for those who enjoy a little kick!
• Salt and pepper – to taste, enhancing all the flavors together.
For the Noodles
• Lasagna noodles – broken into pieces to make them perfect for soup.
For the Cheesy Topping
• Ricotta cheese – creamy delight that elevates the soup’s richness.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese – melts beautifully, creating that gooey texture we love.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – adds a nutty flavor to the cheese mix.
For Garnish
• Fresh basil leaves – brighten your bowl with a fresh touch.
Bring this Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup with Savory Herbs to life with these ingredients, and enjoy a meal that warms the heart!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup with Savory Herbs
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 medium diced onion, cooking until it’s translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and continue to sauté for another minute, ensuring the garlic doesn't burn and releases its aromatic scent.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Increase the heat to medium-high and add 1 pound of ground beef or Italian sausage to the pot. Cook for 6-8 minutes until the meat is browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup flavorful and not greasy.
Step 3: Add the Base Ingredients
Stir in a can of crushed tomatoes and 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth along with 1 tablespoon of tomato paste. Mix everything well to combine into a rich base. Allow this mixture to come to a gentle simmer as the flavors meld together, infusing the soup with deliciousness.
Step 4: Season the Soup
Add 2 teaspoons of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of oregano, 1 teaspoon of thyme, and optional red pepper flakes to introduce exciting flavors to your Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste, then bring the mixture back to a boil for added flavor enhancement.
Step 5: Let It Simmer
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, covering the pot. Let the soup simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the herbs and spices to come together beautifully, creating a warm and inviting aroma that fills your kitchen.
Step 6: Cook the Noodles
Stir in 8 ounces of broken lasagna noodles, ensuring they're well submerged in the liquid. Cook for another 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but still have a slight bite, creating the perfect texture in your Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup.
Step 7: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheeses. Mix until creamy and well blended, creating a delightful cheesy topping that will elevate each bowl of soup you serve.
Step 8: Assemble and Serve
To serve this delicious Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup, ladle it into bowls and add a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture on top of each serving. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, letting them melt slightly into the warm soup.
Step 9: Garnish for Freshness
Finally, garnish each bowl with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor. If desired, drizzle a little olive oil over the top to enhance the richness of the soup, making each bite a creamy, comforting delight that will impress everyone at the table.
Expert Tips for Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup
Perfect Noodles: Make sure to break the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces before adding them; this helps them cook evenly and fit nicely in your bowls.
Flavor Balance: Taste and adjust seasoning as you go! A dash more salt or a sprinkle of sugar can enhance the flavors in your Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup.
Avoid Mushy Noodles: To prevent your noodles from overcooking, check for tenderness a minute or two before the recommended cooking time to maintain their ideal bite.
Cheese Layering: For an extra creamy texture, reserve some ricotta mixture to add on top of the soup just before serving, allowing it to melt slightly when hot.
Freezing Tips: If you plan to freeze the Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup, omit the noodles, as they can become mushy when reheated. Add them fresh when you're ready to enjoy.
How to Store and Freeze Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the soup completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Avoid adding noodles; cook them fresh when reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot. Add freshly cooked noodles if desired.
Serving: Garnish with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil for the ultimate comforting touch when serving leftovers.
What to Serve with Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup?
In every delicious bowl of warmth, discover perfect pairings that elevate your meal into a truly memorable experience.
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Crusty Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery texture complements the soup’s creamy goodness, making every bite an indulgent treat. A well-toasted slice is the perfect vessel for sopping up leftover broth.
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with tangy vinaigrette adds a delightful contrast to the richness of the soup. Crisp greens and colorful vegetables balance out the hearty flavors beautifully.
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Caesar Salad: Classic and refreshing, the creamy dressing and crunchy croutons contrast perfectly with the warm, cheesy soup, providing a satisfying combination of textures.
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Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized delights filled with cheese and herbs make for an irresistible appetizer that’s packed with flavor. They serve as a delightful prelude to your comforting main course.
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Italian Wine: A glass of Chianti enhances the meal while its fruity notes complement the rich flavors of your Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup. Cheers to warming delicious memories!
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Chocolate Lava Cake: End on a sweet note with this warm, gooey dessert. Its rich chocolate flavor will perfectly contrast the savory soup, making for a delightful finish to your meal.
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Homemade Biscotti: These crunchy Italian cookies provide a delightful accompaniment with coffee as you reminisce about the comfort of your meal, bringing a lovely conclusion to your cozy evening.
With these delicious options, you can craft a dinner experience that celebrates every taste and warmth of connection!
Make Ahead Options
These Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup with Savory Herbs are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the soup base (steps 1-6) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days in advance—just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. The uncooked lasagna noodles can be added closer to serving time to ensure they maintain their perfect texture. When you’re ready to enjoy this delightful soup, simply reheat the base on the stove over medium heat, stir in the noodles, and continue with steps 7-9. You'll have a comforting meal with minimal effort, just as delicious as when freshly made!
Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup Variations
Feel free to personalize this delightful soup with these fun and delicious tweaks!
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Veggie Packed: Add diced zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for a colorful and nutritious boost. Not only do they enhance flavor, but they also add extra texture to the soup.
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Meatless Option: Swap meat for lentils or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian version. This keeps the protein intact and offers a delightful change without losing the comforting essence of the soup.
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Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños to ramp up the heat for those who crave a little spice in their meals. The warmth from these adds a fantastic spark to every spoonful.
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Cheesy Overload: Incorporate a mix of cheeses like Gouda or fontina for a unique twist. These melty varieties not only enhance flavor but create an indulgent, creamy texture.
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Creamy Addition: For a creamier soup, mix in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end. This will amplify the richness and velvety comfort of the soup!
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley as a final touch before serving. This brightens the dish and adds a fresh note that complements the hearty flavors beautifully.
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Instant Pot Adaptation: Adapt this recipe for your Instant Pot for quicker preparation. Saute the aromatics, add everything, then cook on high for 10 minutes. It's a speedy twist on a classic favorite!
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Freezer-Friendly Spin: If you love meal prepping, consider dividing the soup into meal-sized portions before freezing. This makes it easy to enjoy conveniently on those busy days without any fuss, much like a satisfying dish of Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
Embrace your inner chef and let your creativity flow, making this Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup uniquely yours!
Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup with Savory Herbs Recipe FAQs
What kind of tomatoes should I use for the soup?
I recommend using crushed tomatoes for their rich flavor and smooth texture, but diced or whole tomatoes can also work if you prefer a chunkier soup. Just remember to break them down as you stir.
How long can I store leftover Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing. For added freshness, reheat on the stovetop and garnish with fresh basil before serving!
Can I freeze this soup, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze, pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers and store it for up to 3 months. I recommend omitting the noodles before freezing, as they'll become mushy upon reheating. When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge, then reheat and add freshly cooked noodles.
What if my soup is too thick?
If you find your Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup is too thick after cooking, simply add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir it in slowly as you heat the soup until it's just right!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! This recipe contains dairy and gluten. You can substitute the noodles with gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-friendly, and for a dairy-free version, use cashew or almond cream instead of ricotta and non-dairy cheese. Always check labels for allergies!
Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup with Savory Herbs Bliss
Equipment
- large pot or Dutch oven
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil adds a rich, savory foundation to the dish
- 1 medium Onion enhances flavor and sweetness when sautéed
- 3 cloves Garlic minced for a punch of aromatic goodness
- 1 pound Ground beef or Italian sausage choose this for a heartier protein option
- 1 can Crushed tomatoes provides a robust base with that classic Italian flavor
- 4 cups Chicken or vegetable broth use low-sodium for a more controlled salt level
- 1 tablespoon Tomato paste concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the soup
- 2 teaspoons Dried basil infuses the soup with comforting herbal notes
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano classic Italian herb that complements the overall flavor
- 1 teaspoon Dried thyme adds a subtle earthy flavor to balance the dish
- to taste Red pepper flakes optional for those who enjoy a little kick
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
For the Noodles
- 8 ounces Lasagna noodles broken into pieces to make them perfect for soup
For the Cheesy Topping
- 1 cup Ricotta cheese creamy delight that elevates the soup’s richness
- 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese melts beautifully, creating that gooey texture
- ½ cup Grated Parmesan cheese adds a nutty flavor to the cheese mix
For Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves brighten your bowl with a fresh touch
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 medium diced onion, cooking until it’s translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and continue to sauté for another minute.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add 1 pound of ground beef or Italian sausage. Cook for 6-8 minutes until the meat is browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in a can of crushed tomatoes and 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth along with 1 tablespoon of tomato paste. Mix well to combine into a rich base. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.
- Add 2 teaspoons of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of oregano, 1 teaspoon of thyme, and optional red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then bring the mixture back to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, covering the pot. Let the soup simmer for 15 minutes.
- Stir in 8 ounces of broken lasagna noodles, ensuring they're submerged in the liquid. Cook for another 10-12 minutes, or until tender but still have a slight bite.
- In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheeses. Mix until creamy.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and add a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture on top of each serving. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Garnish each bowl with fresh basil leaves and drizzle a little olive oil over the top.
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