This creamy lasagna soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with pasta, hearty meat, and a rich tomato sauce, it brings all the cozy vibes.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a one-pot meal like this? I find it perfect for busy nights when I want comfort food without the fuss. Just stir and enjoy!
This soup is great with some cheesy garlic bread on the side. Trust me, it makes the meal even better—and who can resist extra cheese? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the star ingredient, giving the soup its flavor. If you want a lighter option, you can use ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, try using plant-based sausage or just skip the meat and add more vegetables!
Pasta: While farfalle is fun and looks great, you can swap it for any pasta shape you have on hand. Broken lasagna noodles work perfectly, or even penne, shells, or fusilli will do the trick.
Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta adds creaminess and a hint of sweetness. You can substitute it with cottage cheese if you’re looking for a lighter option, or use cream cheese for a thicker texture.
Heavy Cream: For a lower-fat option, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream substitute like coconut cream, but it will alter the flavor slightly.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Sausage and Aromatics?
Cooking the sausage and aromatics properly is key to building flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. This prevents sticking and helps cook the sausage evenly.
- Ensure the sausage is broken up into small pieces while cooking, so it browns nicely. This enhances its flavor.
- Add the onion once the sausage is browned; it will soak up the meaty flavors. Add garlic last, just to prevent burning, as it cooks quickly.
Taking these steps helps create a delicious base for your creamy lasagna soup!
How to Make Creamy Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 8 ounces farfalle (bowtie) pasta or broken lasagna noodles
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, for garnish
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and about 25 minutes for cooking, bringing the total to approximately 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that brings the cozy taste of lasagna to your bowl!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook it for about 5-7 minutes. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks—you’re looking for it to be no longer pink and nicely browned.
2. Add the Vegetables:
Next, toss in the chopped onion and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until it softens. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, allowing that wonderful garlic aroma to fill your kitchen!
3. Create the Base:
Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and give everything a good stir. Bring the mixture to a boil, making your kitchen smell fantastic.
4. Cook the Pasta:
Once it’s boiling, add your pasta (farfalles or broken lasagna noodles) and cook according to the package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking!
5. Make it Creamy:
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the ricotta cheese and heavy cream, blending it all together until the soup is beautifully creamy. This is where the magic happens!
6. Season to Taste:
Now, season your soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the soup, adding even more richness.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy lasagna soup hot. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, fresh sliced basil, and sprinkle some red pepper flakes if you like a little spice. Enjoy this comforting bowl with some crusty bread or cheesy garlic bread for a complete meal!
This creamy lasagna soup is not only delicious but also a hearty way to bring the classic flavors of lasagna into a cozy one-pot meal. Gather your loved ones and enjoy the warmth it brings!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken makes for a lighter option while still delivering great flavor. Just be sure to season it well to mimic the taste of Italian sausage.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Simply omit the meat and add more vegetables, such as bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. You might also want to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back that creamy texture.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
You can freeze this soup! However, since dairy can change texture when thawed, it’s best to freeze the soup before adding the ricotta and heavy cream. Simply add those ingredients upon reheating.
