This Stovetop Ground Beef Lasagna Soup is a fun twist on traditional lasagna. It’s packed with hearty ground beef, noodles, and a delicious tomato sauce, all in one pot!
I love how this soup is perfect for busy nights—just cook, stir, and serve! Plus, it’s like a hug in a bowl! Who wouldn’t want that? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef (80/20) for a balance of flavor and fat. If you want a lighter dish, ground turkey or chicken are great substitutes. For a vegetarian option, try lentils or a plant-based meat substitute!
Pasta: Traditional lasagna noodles are used, but you can swap them for whole wheat pasta or gluten-free varieties if needed. Just break them up into smaller pieces before adding to the soup.
Cheese: Ricotta is a classic for lasagna, but if you’re out, cottage cheese can work, too! For a richer topping, cream cheese can also be a fun alternative. Keep the mozzarella and Parmesan for that cheesy goodness—no substitutes here!
Broth: Beef broth adds depth, but vegetable broth or chicken broth will work just as well if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.
How Do You Make Sure the Noodles Don’t Get Mushy?
Preventing mushy noodles is key for lasagna soup. Here’s how to do it right:
- Add the broken noodles toward the end of the cooking process to keep them firm. This way, they absorb flavor but don’t overcook.
- Stir occasionally while cooking to prevent them from sticking together.
- If you have leftovers, consider cooking fresh noodles separately and adding them when serving to maintain their texture.
Following these tips will help you achieve that perfect blend of flavors and textures in your soup!
Stovetop Ground Beef Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
For the Cheese Topping:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and delightful meal perfect for busy weeknights or any day when you’re craving comforting, homemade goodness.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground beef. Cook it until browned, using a spoon to break it into smaller pieces as it cooks. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off so your soup isn’t greasy.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the finely chopped onion to the pot and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s softened. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute, until it’s fragrant and makes your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Combine the Liquids:
Pour in the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste, stirring everything together to combine well. This is where the hearty base of your soup starts to come together!
4. Season Your Soup:
Next, add the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully.
5. Add the Lasagna Noodles:
Now, it’s time to add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Cook the soup for an additional 7-9 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Make sure to stir it occasionally so they don’t stick together.
6. Serve It Up:
Once the noodles are cooked, ladle the warm soup into bowls. Top each bowl with a generous spoonful of ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella, and a little grated Parmesan for that cheesy bite.
7. Finish and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley to add a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot, and enjoy a comforting bowl of lasagna soup with the family!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian version. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary, as leaner meats may cook a bit faster.
How Do I Store Leftover Lasagna Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of broth to loosen it up as it can thicken when stored.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes! This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best results.
What Can I Use Instead of Ricotta Cheese?
If you’re out of ricotta, cottage cheese works as a substitute! For a creamier texture, you can also use cream cheese. Just blend it until smooth before adding as a topping.
