If you’ve ever wished lasagna came in a cozy bowl and you didn’t have to wait forever for it to bake, this Lasagna Soup Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It has all those classic Italian flavors you love—rich tomato, seasoned ground meat, fresh herbs, and creamy cheeses—but it’s quicker and perfect for chilly nights when comfort food calls your name. Honestly, it feels like a warm hug after a long day, and I promise you, it’s an absolute game changer.

What makes this Lasagna Soup Recipe so special is how effortlessly it blends the beloved layers of lasagna into something wonderfully slurpable. It’s a fantastic dinner when you want something hearty but not too fussy, and leftovers are just as satisfying. Plus, with veggies like spinach tossed in, it feels a little lighter without skimping on that classic taste we all crave.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic really happens when these ingredients come together—the savory meats, robust marinara, fresh herbs, and melty cheeses create that perfect lasagna flavor but in soup form. Picking quality ingredients really pays off here, so I always grab fresh garlic and herbs when I can.

Lean ground beef: Use 80/20 blend for good flavor without too much grease.
Ground Italian sausage: Adds that extra punch of seasoning and depth.
Yellow onion: A foundational flavor base that’s sweet and aromatic.
Olive oil: For sautéing and bringing it all together.
Garlic: Freshly minced makes all the difference for aroma and taste.
Tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor to boost richness.
Marinara sauce: Homemade or good quality store-bought, the heart of the soup.
Red pepper flakes: Just a pinch to add subtle heat without overpowering.
Fresh parsley and dried oregano: Bright, herbal notes that tip the flavor scales.
Dried basil: Classic Italian herb to round out the spices.
Low sodium chicken broth: Keeps it savory without too much salt.
Lasagna noodles: Broken into pieces, they soak up the broth beautifully.
Fresh spinach leaves (optional): Adds color and a nutrient boost.
Ricotta cheese: Creamy and soft, essential for that authentic lasagna feel.
Mozzarella cheese: Melty and stringy — a must for every lasagna fan.
Parmesan cheese: Adds sharpness and nuttiness for that perfect finish.
Fresh basil: Garnish with this for bright, fresh flavor and pretty presentation.

Variations

I love making this Lasagna Soup Recipe my own by swapping out ingredients based on what I have or what my family prefers. Feel free to customize so it fits your taste and lifestyle — it’s surprisingly flexible!

Vegetarian variation: I’ve replaced the meat with zucchini, mushrooms, and yellow squash, and it’s just as hearty. It soaks in all the flavor without missing a beat.
Vegan option: Swap ricotta with cashew ricotta and skip the meats for a delightful plant-based twist I’ve enjoyed more than once.
Different pasta shapes: Don’t stress about lasagna noodles — penne, rigatoni, or broken spaghetti work great. I’ve used whatever was in my pantry.
Spice it up: You can increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of smoked paprika for a personal kick.

How to Make Lasagna Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Meats and Build Your Base

Start by cooking the ground beef and Italian sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season with salt and pepper as you go—it’s easier to layer your seasoning this way. Make sure to break up the meat so it cooks evenly and browns nicely, which adds that rich flavor you want. Once browned, drain off the excess grease and set the meat aside. This step really creates a flavorful foundation for your soup.

Step 2: Sauté Onions, Garlic, and Then Add Tomato Paste

Keep the pot on medium heat and add olive oil. Toss in your chopped onion and cook it slowly to soften and caramelize, about 5 minutes. Stir frequently so it doesn’t burn. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant—that smell alone makes me excited! Stir in the tomato paste, cooking it for about 2 minutes to deepen its flavor before adding the marinara sauce. This step really layers all your tomato goodness beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Broth, Spices, Meat, and Pasta

Pour in your chicken broth, then add your dried herbs, red pepper flakes, and fresh parsley. Return the browned meat to the pot and stir everything together. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the broken lasagna noodles. Lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes. If you’re adding spinach, toss it in just a few minutes before finishing so it wilts but stays vibrant.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

While your soup simmers, mix together the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses in a small bowl. This combo is key to recreating that creamy goodness of traditional lasagna inside your soup bowl. You’ll want to spoon this over warm soup, so get it ready for the grand finale.

How to Serve Lasagna Soup Recipe

A white bowl filled with thick reddish-orange lasagna soup, showing soft, wavy pasta layers mixed in a rich, meaty tomato broth with melted cheese swirled on top. There are small bits of ground meat visible, and a fresh green basil leaf garnishes the soup on one side. A spoon lifts a piece of the pasta with sauce, held close above the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a light cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I swear by adding a generous dollop of the cheese mixture right on top of the hot soup—it melts into the noodles so perfectly. A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that brightens each bite. Sometimes, a little extra cracked black pepper or a drizzle of olive oil finishes it off just right.

Side Dishes

Serving warm, crusty bread alongside this soup is a must for dipping up every last bit. I often go with garlic bread or a simple baguette toasted with olive oil and herbs. A light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party, I like serving the soup in mini bread bowls—it’s always a hit and makes the meal feel extra special. You could also ladle it into small bowls and top with a sprinkle of crisp fried basil leaves or a drizzle of chili oil for a fancy touch that wows guests without much effort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover lasagna soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. I usually wait to add the cheese topping until serving to keep that fresh creamy texture intact. Reheating is as simple as warming it gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Freezing

Freezing works well if you leave out the cheese mixture—I’ve done this plenty of times. Just cool the soup completely, then freeze in meal-sized portions for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge and heat slowly on the stove. Adding fresh noodles at reheating or right before serving helps keep the pasta from getting mushy.

Reheating

I always reheat lasagna soup gently over medium-low heat because high heat can toughen the noodles and cheeses. Stir frequently and add a splash of broth or water if it gets too thick. Then, add the cheese topping fresh after reheating for that melty, creamy finish.

FAQs

Can I make the Lasagna Soup Recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, simply leave out the ground beef and sausage and add extra veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, and yellow squash for heartiness. To go vegan, in addition to skipping the meats, substitute the ricotta cheese with a homemade cashew ricotta or a store-bought vegan cheese alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How do I prevent the noodles from getting mushy?

Break the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces and add them late in the cooking process, allowing them to cook just until tender—usually about 10-15 minutes. Also, when storing leftovers, it’s best to keep the noodles separate or add them fresh when reheating to maintain the perfect texture.
Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes! A good quality store-bought marinara works wonderfully and saves time. Just choose one you love the taste of, as it’s a star ingredient in this soup, and adjust seasoning in the soup as needed.
What’s the best way to reheat the soup?

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. If it seems thick, add a bit of broth or water to loosen it up. Add your cheese topping fresh after warming for the best melt and creaminess.
Can I freeze this Lasagna Soup Recipe?

You can freeze the soup, but omit the cheeses before freezing. Freeze in an airtight container, then thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently and add fresh cheese mixture or fresh noodles after warming for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Lasagna Soup Recipe is one of those meals I always reach for when I want something satisfying and cozy, but without the time commitment of traditional lasagna. Whether you’re feeding family, serving friends, or just wanting a delicious meal to curl up with, it hits all the right notes. Give it a try, tweak it to your liking, and enjoy every comforting spoonful—you’ll be surprised how often this becomes your go-to dinner.