
Looking for all those lasagna flavors without the fuss? This Lasagna Soup does the trick. It packs everything you adore about classic lasagna into a single comforting dish. My kids beg for this when the weather turns chilly and we need something that feels like comfort in a bowl.
What Makes This Soup Special
I first whipped this up when my family wanted lasagna but I was short on time. The combo of sausage and beef floating in tomato-rich broth turned out way better than I expected. You can simmer it on the stovetop or let it cook in your crockpot while you handle other things. Nothing beats dipping crusty garlic bread into that cheese-filled broth - that first spoonful is pure magic.
Your Shopping List
- Sweet Italian Sausage: Brings that authentic Italian kick
- Ground Beef: Creates heartiness - ground turkey is a great swap
- Yellow Onion: Dice it small
- Garlic: Go with fresh for best taste
- Tomato Paste: Adds depth to your broth
- Sugar: Just a touch to balance acidity
- Hot Sauce: Optional for heat lovers
- Dried Herbs: Basil and oregano for Italian flair
- Red Pepper Flakes: For gentle warmth
- Salt and Pepper: Add to your liking
- Tomatoes: Use both diced and crushed varieties
- Chicken Broth: Creates your soup base
- Bay Leaf: Remove before eating
- Lasagna Noodles: Snap into smaller pieces
- Three Cheeses: Ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan
- Fresh Parsley: For color on top
Cooking Instructions
- Cook Your Proteins:
- Get your largest pot hot and toss in sausage and beef together. Add your onions when meat is halfway done - they'll grab all that yummy flavor. Once everything's nicely browned, pour off extra grease and add garlic, cooking just until you can smell it.
- Add Flavors:
- Mix in tomato paste and sprinkle in those dried herbs. Add your sugar dash and hot sauce if you want some kick. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes until everything smells just right.
- Create The Base:
- Pour chicken broth in while scraping those flavorful bits from the pot bottom. Add tomatoes and drop in your bay leaf. Bring everything to a bubble, then lower heat so it can simmer gently.
- Handle The Pasta:
- In a separate pot, cook lasagna noodles. Chop them into smaller, spoon-friendly pieces after they're done - nobody wants to wrestle with huge noodles in soup!
- Final Assembly:
- Don't forget to grab that bay leaf out! Scoop soup into bowls and here comes the best part - top with generous amounts of all three cheeses and finish with parsley sprinkles.

Our Family Favorite
We stumbled on this recipe during a cold snap when I had lasagna stuff but ran out of patience for all that layering. Now they request it more than traditional lasagna! There's something wonderful about scooping up that meaty broth and finding stretchy cheese throughout. Whether you're cramped for time or just lounging around, it always hits the spot.
Protein Options
I typically use a combo of sausage and ground beef, but I often switch things up depending on what's available. Ground turkey makes for a lighter version, and sometimes I go all-sausage for extra punch. My sister sticks with just beef in hers, and it's still fantastic. Work with what you've got - this soup won't complain.
Pasta Possibilities
Broken lasagna noodles give you that true lasagna feel, but don't worry if you're out. I've tossed in everything from farfalle to elbows when that's all I had. Each pasta shape holds the broth differently, and my kids actually enjoy trying various kinds. Just cook your pasta separately - soggy noodles ruin good soup.
Pro Tips
Here's a secret from my nana - toss a parmesan rind into the pot while it simmers. It adds an amazing depth you can't get any other way. The soup gets tastier the longer it cooks, just stir occasionally. Always cook your pasta right before you're ready to eat - it makes such a difference.
Perfect Pairings
Want to know what takes this soup over the top? Hot garlic bread alongside it. We love soaking pieces in that tasty broth. Sometimes I'll make cheese scones instead - they vanish just as quickly. Whatever you choose, make plenty because everyone always wants extra for dipping.

Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different kind of broth?
Totally! Beef broth gives a deep flavor, but vegetable broth works great too. Mixing both can be nice. Just make sure it’s rich—tomatoes help a lot with that.
- → How can I prep it in advance?
Make the soup base first and cook the pasta separately. Combine when you're ready to eat. This keeps it tasting fresh. Plus, the base soup freezes really well!
- → Can I skip the meat?
Sure thing! Swap in mushrooms or lentils to keep it hearty. Toss in some extra veggies too. Just season generously and it'll be just as satisfying.
- → Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Yes, but leave out the noodles before freezing. Save the pasta for when you reheat it fresh. Keeps up to three months if stored properly. Defrost it slowly in the fridge.
- → What cheeses can I use?
Italian-style cheeses are a winner. Parmesan, mozzarella, or even a mix works beautifully. Freshly grated cheese melts best but don’t overdo it on salty ones!
- → What if the soup thickens too much?
It's easy—just add a bit more broth gradually. Stir it well and keep an eye on the pasta amount. You can’t go wrong with this fix.
- → How do I bring this dish somewhere?
Keep the soup and pasta separate, and mix them when you get there. Pack some extra cheese and a bit of broth to adjust consistency if needed. Heat it slowly.
- → How can I make it faster?
Use quick-cooking pasta and prep all your ingredients beforehand. Brown the meat first, then toss everything together in one pot. Still delicious!
- → Want to feed a crowd?
Just double everything! Use a bigger pot and make sure there’s enough broth. Cooking time might increase a little, so keep stirring often.
- → Can I add more flavor?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs are a game changer. Add spicy sausage for a kick or try combining cheese types. A splash of wine can even take it up a notch.
- → Pasta came out too soft?
Next time, cook the noodles for less time or even separately. Add them close to the end. Keeping the heat low also helps.
- → It’s not rich enough—what can I do?
Cook the meat until it’s deeply browned, add a dab of tomato paste, and let the onions cook down. Toss in more herbs and simmer it longer for deeper flavors.
Conclusion
If you enjoy this, give the hearty pasta bean soup a try next. Or warm up with healthy veggie bean soup. Both are sure to please!