Easy Lasagna Soup

1. Cook the Meat:
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef (or sausage) over medium heat until browned. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease, if necessary.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Tomatoes and Broth:
   Stir in the crushed tomatoes, broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
4. Cook the Pasta:
   Add the uncooked pasta to the soup and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
   In a small bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
6. Combine and Serve:
   Once the pasta is cooked, ladle the soup into bowls. Top each bowl with a generous scoop of the ricotta mixture, followed by shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Lasagna Soup

• Make It Vegetarian: Swap the ground beef for sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers, and use vegetable broth.
• Add More Flavor: Spice it up by adding red pepper flakes or using spicy sausage. You can also toss in some spinach or kale for added nutrition.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix up the cheeses. Instead of ricotta, you could use cream cheese for a creamier texture. Or, try adding different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.
• Leftovers: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep. Reheat on the stove and add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Conclusion

Easy Lasagna Soup is a delightful way to enjoy all the flavors of traditional lasagna in a simpler form. With its rich tomato broth, hearty pasta, and creamy cheese, it’s a meal that warms the soul and satisfies hunger without a lot of fuss. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or enjoying it as a comforting solo meal, this soup is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor every spoonful!