Embrace the essence of comfort food with our Lasagna Soup, a deconstructed take on the classic Italian dish. This heartwarming soup combines all the beloved flavors of traditional lasagna—rich tomato broth, ground beef, tender lasagna noodles, and a dollop of creamy ricotta—into a cozy, spoonable delight. It's the perfect solution for lasagna cravings when you're short on time or looking for a comforting meal in a bowl. Easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious, this soup promises to warm you up from the inside out.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 6
- Serving Size: 1 hearty bowl
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
Ingredients
- 500g (1.1 lbs) ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 800g (28 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
- 1.5 liters (6 cups) beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 250g (8.8 oz) ricotta cheese
- 100g (3.5 oz) grated Parmesan cheese
- 200g (7 oz) shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Cook the Beef: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the onion and garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are soft.
- Add the Broth and Tomatoes: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, sugar, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer.
- Cook the Noodles: Add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta, Parmesan, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Place a dollop of the cheese mixture in each bowl, then sprinkle with the remaining shredded mozzarella. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Tips for Culinary Success
- For a leaner option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- Adding a splash of red wine to the broth can deepen the soup’s flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier soup, include red pepper flakes in the seasoning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Consider adding mushrooms or zucchini for a hearty texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Cool the soup completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the cheese mixture separately.
Can I freeze Lasagna Soup?
Freeze the soup without the noodles or cheese mixture for up to 3 months. Add fresh noodles when reheating and top with cheese as directed.
As you relish the last spoonful of Lasagna Soup, let the comforting flavors and heartwarming broth remind you of the simple pleasures in life. This soup isn't just a meal; it's a hug in a bowl, offering solace and warmth with every bite. Whether you're gathering around the table on a chilly evening or seeking solace in a familiar flavor, this dish proves that some of the best memories are made when we share the joy of comfort food. Buon appetito!