This Cheesy Ground Beef Lasagna Soup is a warm, comforting dish that combines the best of lasagna and soup. With tender beef, pasta, and lots of gooey cheese, it’s a real treat!
You can skip the layers and just enjoy this soup in a bowl! I love how easy it is to make, and my family never complains when I whip this up for dinner. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I prefer using lean ground beef to keep it flavorful but not overly greasy. If you want to go lighter, ground turkey or chicken works great too.
Marinara Sauce: Any jarred marinara sauce will work well. If you like extra flavor, you can even use homemade sauce or a spicy Arrabbiata sauce for a kick.
Pasta: Egg noodles or rotini are my favorites for this soup. They hold up nicely, but feel free to use other pastas like macaroni or even gluten-free pasta if needed.
Cheeses: I love the creaminess of ricotta paired with mozzarella. If you’re in a pinch, cottage cheese can be a nice substitute for ricotta, giving a similar texture.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Pasta in Soup?
Cooking pasta in soup can be tricky! You want the noodles to be tender but not mushy. Here’s how to do it:
- Check the pasta’s cooking time. Add it to the soup during the last 8-10 minutes of simmering for optimal texture.
- Keep stirring gently. This helps the pasta cook evenly and prevents it from sticking to the bottom.
- Consider undercooking the pasta slightly if you plan to save leftovers—the pasta will continue to soften in the soup as it sits.
With these tips, your cheesy ground beef lasagna soup will be perfect every time!
Cheesy Ground Beef Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8 oz egg noodles or rotini pasta
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep and around 30 minutes for cooking, making the total time approximately 45 minutes. This soup is quick to whip up and perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat until it’s fully cooked. Make sure to break it apart with a spatula as it cooks for an even texture.
2. Add the Veggies:
Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess grease if necessary. Add the diced onion and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until it’s softened and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell that wonderful garlic aroma!
3. Pour in the Sauces:
Now, it’s time to add flavor! Pour in the marinara sauce, beef broth, and undrained diced tomatoes into the pot. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir everything well to combine.
4. Let It Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes so all the flavors can meld together beautifully.
5. Add Pasta:
Add in your choice of pasta—egg noodles or rotini will work great! Let the soup simmer for another 8-10 minutes until the noodles are tender but not mushy. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally!
6. Introduce the Cheeses:
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. This will make the soup creamy and cheesy as they melt into the mixture!
7. Serve Your Soup:
Now, ladle the delicious soup into bowls. Top each bowl with dollops of ricotta cheese and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top. They’ll melt slightly when they hit that hot soup, making it an irresistible bowl of comfort!
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your soup with some fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or crunchy crackers on the side, and enjoy your comforting, hearty cheesy lasagna soup!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as it may cook a little faster than beef.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months, but the pasta may soften a bit upon reheating. If you’re storing it for later, consider undercooking the pasta slightly so it holds up better!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with a mix of your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version!
How can I add more flavor to the soup?
For extra flavor, try adding a splash of red wine when you add the broth, or toss in some crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Fresh herbs like oregano or rosemary can also enhance the taste considerably!
