Lasagna is a timeless comfort food—rich layers of pasta, savory meat, velvety tomato sauce, and creamy cheese all baked into one irresistible dish. But what if you could enjoy that same indulgent flavor in a fraction of the time, with just one pot to clean afterward? Enter the One Pot Lasagna Soup—a hearty, flavor-packed twist on the classic Italian favorite that’s quick, comforting, and downright irresistible.
This soup takes everything you love about lasagna and transforms it into a cozy bowl of goodness. Imagine tender pasta simmered in a rich tomato broth, perfectly seasoned ground meat, Italian herbs, and a dollop of creamy ricotta that melts into each spoonful. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but special enough to serve when guests come over.
---
Ingredients (and Why They Work)
Olive oil (2 tbsp): Adds richness and depth while helping to sauté the aromatics.
Ground beef (1 lb): Provides hearty protein and that classic lasagna flavor. You can also substitute with ground turkey or Italian sausage for variety.
Yellow onion (1, diced): A foundation ingredient that adds natural sweetness and depth.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Brings bold flavor that enhances the sauce.
Tomato paste (2 tbsp): Intensifies the tomato base, giving the broth a rich, concentrated taste.
Crushed tomatoes (28 oz can): Forms the base of the soup with a robust tomato flavor.
Beef broth (4 cups): Adds body and depth, making the soup hearty while balancing acidity.
Italian seasoning (2 tsp): A blend of herbs that delivers authentic lasagna taste in every bite.
Red pepper flakes (optional, ¼ tsp): Adds a subtle kick of heat.
Lasagna noodles (8–10, broken into pieces): The star of the show, they cook right in the pot, soaking up flavor.
Ricotta cheese (1 cup): Creamy and tangy, it mimics the cheesy layers of lasagna when stirred into each serving.
Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts beautifully, adding stretch and richness.
Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated): Sharp and nutty, it ties all the flavors together.
Fresh basil (¼ cup, chopped): Bright and fragrant, it adds freshness to balance the richness.
Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and balance.
---
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Brown the meat: Add ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Build the flavor base: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor. Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
4. Cook the pasta: Add broken lasagna noodles directly into the pot. Cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until noodles are tender but not mushy.
5. Season and finish: Taste the soup and adjust with salt and black pepper. Stir in fresh basil for brightness.
6. Serve with cheese topping: Ladle soup into bowls and top with a generous spoonful of ricotta, a sprinkle of mozzarella, and a dusting of Parmesan. Let the heat of the soup melt the cheese into creamy perfection.
---
Why This Recipe Is Loved
One pot, minimal cleanup: Everything cooks in a single pot, making weeknight dinners stress-free.
Classic lasagna flavor in less time: No layering, no baking, no fuss—just the taste you crave in under 40 minutes.
Family-friendly comfort food: Kids love the cheesy topping, while adults appreciate the hearty, flavorful broth.
Customizable: Swap in different meats, add spinach or zucchini for extra veggies, or make it spicy with more red pepper flakes.
---
Pro Tips for the Perfect One Pot Lasagna Soup
Don’t overcook the noodles: Keep an eye on them and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add cheese at serving, not in the pot: This prevents clumping and keeps the soup creamy with each bite.
For make-ahead meals: Cook the soup without the pasta, then add noodles when reheating to avoid soggy texture.
Boost the flavor: Use a parmesan rind simmered in the broth for an even richer taste.
---
Serving Suggestions
This soup is a meal in itself, but you can make it even more irresistible by serving it with:
Garlic bread or focaccia to soak up the flavorful broth.
A crisp Caesar salad for a refreshing balance to the richness.
A glass of red wine like Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon to elevate the dining experience.
---
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Lasagna Soup is the ultimate comfort food—warm, hearty, and brimming with all the flavors of traditional lasagna without the fuss. It’s quick enough for busy nights yet impressive enough for guests, making it a recipe you’ll return to again and again. With its ease, flavor, and minimal cleanup, this dish proves that delicious doesn’t have to mean complicated.
If you’re looking for a simple, family-friendly dinner that guarantees full bellies and happy smiles, this lasagna soup deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.
0 comments:
Post a Comment