why make this recipe
One Pot Lasagna Soup combines the rich flavors of traditional lasagna in a convenient, hearty soup. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight when you crave comfort food but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. This recipe simplifies the process while delivering the classic taste you love.
Furthermore, the all-in-one cooking method means fewer dishes to wash afterward. You can enjoy a warm, satisfying meal in no time, making it ideal for families or anyone looking to indulge without the fuss.
equipment needed for One Pot Lasagna Soup
To create this delightful dish, you’ll need a few essential tools. Start with a large pot, preferably a Dutch oven or stockpot, which will accommodate all the ingredients comfortably. You’ll also require a wooden spoon or spatula to stir the soup gently.
Having a chopping board and a knife will help you prepare the onions and garlic. For serving, make sure to have bowls ready. Lastly, measuring cups and spoons are helpful for accuracy in measuring ingredients.
What You Need to Make One Pot Lasagna Soup
- 300 g (10.5 oz) ground beef
- 1 cup (150g) diced onion
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried rosemary or Italian herb seasoning
- 2 tbsp (30g) tomato paste
- 1 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper, or to taste
- 2 cups (500ml) tomato pasta sauce or tomato passata
- 4 cups (1 litre) beef or chicken stock
- 200 g or 7 oz (about 6 sheets) uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup (240ml) evaporated milk or heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Chopped parsley or fresh basil for garnish (optional)
How to Cook One Pot Lasagna Soup Step by Step
Start the cooking process by placing your pot over medium-high heat and adding a drizzle of oil. Allow the oil to heat up, and once hot, introduce the ground beef. Cook the beef until it is nicely browned, stirring it occasionally to ensure even cooking throughout.
Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sprinkle in the dried rosemary or Italian herb seasoning, along with the tomato paste. If you enjoy a kick of spice, now’s the time to add the chili flakes. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper. Sauté everything together for about 2-3 minutes until the aroma fills your kitchen, indicating that the flavors are blending nicely.
Once the vegetables are fragrant, stir in the tomato pasta sauce and your choice of beef or chicken stock. Bring this hearty mixture to a boil, watching carefully to avoid any splatters. When boiling, it’s time to introduce the broken lasagna noodles. Reduce the heat to medium and let the soup simmer for approximately 10 minutes. You want the pasta to cook until it is al dente, creating a satisfying texture.
After the noodles are cooked, turn off the heat. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the surface of the soup. Then, pour the evaporated milk or heavy cream evenly across the cheese layer. This creamy addition will help enhance the lasagna flavor while adding richness to the broth.
Cover the pot with a lid and let it sit for about 2-3 minutes. The residual heat will melt the cheese beautifully, creating a gooey topping that pulls this dish together. For a finishing touch, sprinkle chopped parsley or fresh basil over the top if desired. Before serving, stir the melted cheese into the soup to ensure every bowl is cheesy and delectable.
how to make One Pot Lasagna Soup
Making One Pot Lasagna Soup is surprisingly easy and quick. Start by preparing your ingredients ahead of time, which cuts down on cooking when you’re ready to whip it up. You can chop the onions and garlic and keep them in a bowl. Alternatively, you can add them directly to the pot as you cook.
The key to rich flavors lies in the sautéing process. This step helps to soften the onions and garlic while releasing their natural sweetness, which will infuse your soup with aromatic goodness.
It’s essential that you monitor the cooking time of the lasagna noodles. If left too long, they can become overcooked and mushy. Aim for al dente, as they will continue cooking slightly even after you turn off the heat. Adjust the seasonings according to your personal preferences.
To elevate the dish further, consider experimenting with different cheese variations or adding veggies like spinach or bell peppers. This recipe is versatile, so feel free to adapt based on what you have available or how you like your soup.
how to serve One Pot Lasagna Soup
When it’s time to serve One Pot Lasagna Soup, ladle it into bowls generously. The hearty texture and flavors are best enjoyed piping hot. If you’ve opted for a garnish of parsley or basil, sprinkle it over each bowl just before serving to add freshness.
Consider pairing the soup with garlic bread or warm breadsticks on the side. They complement the flavors and enhance the overall dining experience, allowing you to soak up the delicious broth.
For a more complete meal, add a light green salad to your table. A simple salad with mixed greens, olive oil, and vinegar works wonderfully alongside the richness of the soup.
what to serve with One Pot Lasagna Soup
One Pot Lasagna Soup is a hearty dish that pairs well with various sides. A classic choice is garlic bread, which can be made by toasting sliced baguette with garlic and butter. The crispy texture of the bread contrasts nicely with the soup’s warmth.
You could also serve it alongside a crisp Caesar salad or a simple caprese salad. The freshness of the tomatoes and mozzarella in the salad can balance the savory flavors of the soup.
Cheesy breadsticks or even a side of roasted vegetables can enhance your meal, bringing in additional textures and flavors. The great thing about this dish is its versatility with side options—feel free to get creative!
how to store One Pot Lasagna Soup
Storing leftover One Pot Lasagna Soup is simple. Allow the soup to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Once securely sealed, you can place it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a bit of space at the top for expansion. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm it in a pot over medium heat or microwave until heated through.
Be mindful that the noodles may soften slightly when frozen, but the flavors will still be delicious and comforting.
tips to make One Pot Lasagna Soup
To make the best One Pot Lasagna Soup, consider some helpful tips. Start by browning the meat thoroughly to build depth in flavors. Avoid overcrowding the pot, as this can lead to steaming rather than browning.
Taste as you go! Adjust the seasonings to suit your preferences, especially if you prefer a spicier kick or a more herbaceous flavor.
If you want to cut down on prep time, use pre-cooked beef or an alternative protein like turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based substitute. The soup is flexible and can adapt to your dietary needs!
Lastly, don’t skip adding the evaporated milk or cream, as it enhances the creaminess. A splash of lemon juice at the end can brighten the flavors, making the dish even more enjoyable.
variation
One Pot Lasagna Soup can be easily customized. For a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based meat alternatives. The same seasonings will still give you that familiar lasagna flavor.
You can also add extra vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers for added texture and nutrients. If you love a spicy kick, throw in jalapeños or increase the amount of chili flakes.
For a cheese lover’s delight, bump up the quantities of mozzarella and Parmesan, or try different cheese blends like provolone or gouda for a unique taste.
best time to make One Pot Lasagna Soup
One Pot Lasagna Soup is perfect anytime you crave comfort food. However, it shines on cold days when you want something warm and satisfying. It’s also a great dish for busy weeknights, as it cooks quickly and uses one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
Additionally, it works wonderfully for casual gatherings or potlucks. You can easily double the recipe to serve a crowd, ensuring everyone leaves happy and full.
common mistakes to avoid
While making One Pot Lasagna Soup is straightforward, some common pitfalls can affect the outcome. Overcooking the pasta is a frequent issue; they can break down and lose their texture. Keep a close eye on the cooking time to ensure they are adequately cooked but still firm.
Another mistake is not seasoning the soup adequately. Taste throughout the cooking process and adjust the seasonings to create a well-balanced flavor.
Lastly, be cautious about adding too many ingredients as this can lead to an overly thick mixture that strays from the soup’s desired consistency.
nutritional notes
One Pot Lasagna Soup can be a nourishing meal. It provides a good source of protein from the beef and cheese while delivering carbohydrates from the lasagna noodles. Adding vegetables increases vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
For those on a calorie-restricted diet, consider using low-fat cheeses or alternative milk options. By adjusting ingredients, you can tailor the recipe to meet your nutritional goals without losing the delicious flavors.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked lasagna noodles?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked lasagna noodles, but keep in mind that they won’t need to cook in the soup for as long. Add them in the final few minutes of simmering.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup stores well in the refrigerator or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep. Just follow storage tips to maintain its freshness.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based proteins are excellent alternatives. Feel free to get creative with different flavors and textures.
conclusion
One Pot Lasagna Soup is an easy, comforting meal that brings the familiar flavors of traditional lasagna into a quick and convenient bowl. With its rich ingredients and flexible recipe, you can adapt it to suit your taste or dietary needs. This dish promises satisfaction whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just looking for something hearty for yourself. Enjoy its simplicity and deliciousness any time you desire a warm, fulfilling meal!
