Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta – Hearty and Comforting

Easy Lasagna Soup without ricotta is a simple, cozy take on classic lasagna, capturing all the flavors of the traditional dish in a warm, comforting soup. This recipe combines seasoned ground beef, aromatic vegetables, broken lasagna noodles, and a rich tomato-based broth for a filling and family-friendly meal. The addition of shredded mozzarella and a touch of cream makes the soup silky, indulgent, and satisfying. Unlike traditional lasagna, this soup requires far less time and effort, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or anytime you crave the familiar flavors of Italian comfort food. This guide provides step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, optional variations, serving suggestions, storage advice, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Ingredients for Easy Lasagna Soup

Protein and Vegetables: 1 lb ground beef – adds savory flavor and richness. 1 medium onion, diced – provides aromatic sweetness. 4 to 5 garlic cloves, minced – adds depth and warmth.

Broth and Seasonings: 1 jar (28–32 oz) pasta or spaghetti sauce – forms the base of the soup. 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes – adds texture and acidity. 2 tablespoons tomato paste – enhances the richness and depth of flavor. 1 tablespoon dried basil – classic Italian herb. 1 tablespoon dried oregano – warm and aromatic. 1 tablespoon dried parsley – adds subtle freshness. 1 bay leaf – imparts herbal depth during simmering. 4 to 6 cups chicken stock – adjust for preferred soup consistency. 8 lasagna noodles, broken into small pieces – cook directly in the soup for convenience.

Finishing and Serving: ½ cup heavy cream – adds silkiness and richness. 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – provides gooey, melty topping. Optional garnish: fresh basil or parsley for color.

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef and Vegetables In a large soup pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Build the Broth Stir in tomato paste, pasta sauce, and diced tomatoes. Add dried basil, oregano, parsley, and bay leaf. Pour in 4 cups of chicken stock and stir to combine. Bring the soup to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 3: Add the Noodles Break the lasagna noodles into small pieces and add them to the simmering soup. Add additional stock if necessary to cover the noodles and achieve your desired consistency. Simmer for 8–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender.

Step 4: Finish with Cream and Cheese Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream for a smooth, velvety texture. Sprinkle in shredded mozzarella cheese and stir gently until melted and fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly cracked black pepper as needed.

Step 5: Serve Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic toast for a complete, comforting meal.

Tips for Perfect Lasagna Soup

• Break Noodles Evenly: Breaking noodles into small, uniform pieces ensures even cooking.
• Adjust Consistency: Add more chicken stock if the soup is too thick or reduce for a heartier stew.
• Flavor Boost: Add a splash of red wine when cooking the beef for depth.
• Cheese Options: Top with Parmesan or provolone for variation.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: Add spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

Flavor Variations

1. Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for heat.
2. Italian Sausage Twist: Substitute half the ground beef with Italian sausage for bold flavor.
3. Creamy Tomato: Increase heavy cream to ¾ cup for extra richness.
4. Vegetarian Version: Replace meat with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or beans.
5. Extra Cheesy: Sprinkle mozzarella or Parmesan directly into individual bowls before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with crusty garlic bread, breadsticks, or a fresh green salad. Pair with roasted vegetables or a side of antipasto for a complete Italian-inspired meal. This soup is perfect for cozy nights, family dinners, or casual entertaining.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooled soup (without cream) for up to 2 months; add cream when reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent noodles from sticking.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

Calories: 410 kcal | Protein: 28 g | Fat: 22 g | Carbohydrates: 28 g | Fiber: 3 g | Sugar: 6 g | Sodium: 750 mg

This soup is rich, comforting, and filling, delivering the flavors of traditional lasagna in an easier, quicker format.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

• Mushy Noodles: Don’t overcook; add noodles toward the end and cook until just tender.
• Bland Flavor: Use a mix of herbs and taste before serving to adjust seasoning.
• Curdling Cream: Lower the heat before stirring in cream to prevent separation.
• Overcrowded Pot: Ensure there’s enough broth to allow noodles to cook evenly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Lasagna Soup without ricotta captures all the delicious flavors of traditional lasagna in a simple, one-pot meal. It’s perfect for families, weeknight dinners, and anyone craving Italian comfort food with minimal effort. Creamy, cheesy, and hearty, this soup satisfies both adults and kids alike, while still being customizable with vegetables, proteins, or extra cheese.

Conclusion

This Easy Lasagna Soup is a quick, comforting, and flavorful meal that combines the best of lasagna in a warm, brothy soup. With tender noodles, savory ground beef, a rich tomato base, and melty mozzarella, it’s a perfect choice for cozy nights or casual family dinners. Serve it with fresh herbs and crusty bread for an indulgent and satisfying bowl every time.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this vegetarian? Yes, substitute ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or beans and use vegetable broth.
2. Can I use pre-cooked noodles? No, use broken uncooked lasagna noodles so they cook directly in the soup.
3. Can I make it spicy? Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
4. Can I freeze this soup? Freeze the soup without cream for up to 2 months; add cream when reheating.
5. Can I add other vegetables? Yes, zucchini, spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers work well.
6. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef? Absolutely, they work well for a lighter version.
7. Can I make this gluten-free? Use gluten-free lasagna noodles.
8. Can I make it dairy-free? Use plant-based cream and shredded cheese alternatives.

Easy Lasagna Soup without ricotta is a family-friendly, flavorful, and cozy meal that brings the essence of lasagna into a simple, comforting bowl.